Hi - I'm looking for some suggestions for the best paint/color solutions for my front porch.

The porch is underneath a huge tree that constantly drops needles and sap, and leads to some mildewing as well. I've lost any enthusiasm for sweeping and scrubbing, and - since the tree isn't going anywhere - I'm ready to settle for camouflage.

I'm interested in paint color solutions, so the discoloration to the porch surface is not so obvious. Because the entire porch is in disrepair, and is slated for some significant renewal in the next couple of years, I'm not looking for an elaborate solution - relatively simple will be best in this case. I'm not opposed to painting the lower portion of the house as well (i.e. below the "chair rail"), but this will be a DIY project, and I definitely don't want to embark on a full house repaint!! (Currently the house is a creamy pale beige, with white trim.)

I've been drawn to the idea of using warm grey, dark for the flat surface of the porch and the treads of the steps, with a lighter grey for the risers and other areas (suggestions please!), but don't want this to blind me to the thought of other colors.

I know if I do this, then I'll likely end up painting the front door, and replacing the porch light and number ...... and then I'll be discontent with the fence etc .... and so it goes :)

Thanks in advance for any help offered!