By Stacey Riley

Summer is finally here…isn’t it? Seattleites really take advantage of the few sunny days we get while hoping for more on the way! True to our northwest style, we start gardening and sprucing up our yards for the sunny weather ahead. While you are at it, don’t forget about that porch!

If you are able and willing, a brightly painted front door is always eye catching and welcoming. Turquoises, purples, yellows and lime greens are just a few fun choices…or even the standard red. If you can’t or don’t want to paint your front door, there are many other ways to bring color to your porch.

Brightly colored plants, welcoming doormats and colorful seating are all interesting ways to smarten up your summertime porch. Painted pieces such as chairs, benches and tables can be matching or mismatched in a coordinated style. If you prefer metal furniture, find some fun patterned cushions and pillows. Outdoor fabric options have grown tremendously over the last few years so it should be easy to find something fun and inexpensive. Try www.homedecorators.com and look under their outdoor cushions and pillows link.

Nothing says “Come on in” better than a screen door. Really think about the look of your screen door. Stay away from cheap white aluminum doors and go for something more charming. A wood painted or stained screen door really adds a sense of character and appeal. Visit www.franklumberthedoorstore.com and look at the screen doors for some ideas.

Don’t overlook hardware. Lighting, door bells, mailboxes, house numbers, hinges and door handles are all easy to update and will create a fresh new feeling to your porch remodel. Select one finish and use it throughout. A great resource for these products is www.rejuvination.com.

Finally, consider the ground materials in and around your porch. Do you need to repaint some concrete or railings? Does your wood porch need a sanding and staining or painting? Maybe you need to do some walkway repair or bring your grass back to life. Some of these tasks are simple, others more difficult but all worth the work. Remember, curb appeal is the name of the game. A revamped porch will not only draw positive attention to your home, but will give you a new “room” to enjoy!

Stacey Riley is a West Seattle based interior design expert. You can reach her through her website StaceyRileyInteriors.com or via email at stacey.riley@comcast.net