"Header is probably not to code either."

What header?

Sophie must have fainted at her Ipad.............

Hi Jan, Guess you're a PRO Troll?

You just lost your sure bet. I have permits for all work done. The section to left was an old porch, which I converted to a 1/2 bath. The "new" door location is where the door was originally, in 1910. The bay window was added circa 1935. The "hunk of pine" above the door is sheathing over 2x4 studs. I'm looking for design ideas. Have you ever had one?

Try a door awning instead of a gable portico. https://www.generalawnings.com/door-awnings-c-80

Bob, I think apple pie might have the best idea. Been sitting here staring at your photo and I can't see any way to make a porch that isn't going to end up causing problems with rain runoff, etc.

In the best world the finished design would have been considered in the previous design phase. It may be a bigger project than the OP would like but could you retrieve coherence if the shingled roof were pulled off the bay and a single, wider porch roof created?

Bob, I don't have a clue but just wanted to say your clever title for this topic caught my eye. :-)

Could you extend the roof from the bay across? I don't know how it would finish on the wing to the side: you may end up with a porch that angles against the bay

Thanks for drawing that up palimpsest. That's pretty much where my mind was going. Might even bring it all the way across to the left corner

I also loved your title of your dilemma! I ALWAYS enjoy a play on words, etc... I agree an awning may be your best choice - but palimpsest picture is great if you're up to the challenge (though you don't seem faint of heart!).

But what I really wanted was to chime in to say whatever you decide.... HURRY UP! If rain is in the forecast and any of your neighbors come to visit during a downpour and they are at all like some others we've noticed hanging around (who shall remain nameless) they will DROWN cuz their noses are stuck so far up in the air and no protection overhead. So for gosh sakes... HURRY. Or at least tack an umbrella over the doorway to protect town snobs.... and their architects and their contractors, etc...

:-)

Cart, meet horse.

The problem is that when there was a door there, there was no bay window interfering. No problem with a porch roof or portico.

Now, the door is back but the bay window is still there hogging all the wall. Working that out should have come before a hammer was raised.

See if this works.

front entrance · More Info

Thanks Palmipsest, Houssaon and all, for your suggestions. I'm going to extend the roof, straight across the front and add a little front porch. I'll upload pics when complete