The lanai, while usually found in Florida and Hawaii, is not limited geographically. Although it is most often associated with tropical climates and seaside locales, a lanai porch is right at home here in southern California. It’s a space that blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors, offering a perfect haven for relaxation and entertainment. But a bare lanai can feel uninviting. Use these lanai porch ideas to turn your outdoor space into a stylish and functional oasis.
Flooring and Furniture
In reviewing how to decorate a lanai porch, let’s start with the basics. When it comes to flooring, consider weather-resistant options like outdoor rugs, interlocking floor tiles, or even stained concrete. These add visual interest and provide a comfortable surface underfoot.
When you are ready to decorate a lanai porch, opt for outdoor furniture sets made from durable materials like HDPE, teak wood, or rust-proof aluminum. Choose pieces that complement the size of your lanai and cater to your needs – a conversation set for relaxing, a dining set for alfresco meals, or comfortable chaise lounges for sunbathing.
Light and Shade
Although many lanais feature “walls,” such as you might see on a lanai screened-in porch, you can maximize natural light by keeping window treatments sheer or nonexistent. This creates a bright and airy feel, especially if your windows are open to the breeze. If you need extra lighting, consider string lights, lanterns, or tiki torches along the four corners of your lanai’s foundation.
California sun can be intense. Install retractable awnings, shade sails, or bamboo blinds for adjustable shade throughout the day. An outdoor umbrella is an easy way to create moveable shade and it’s cost-effective to replace the canopy when necessary. At Hauser’s Patio, we can create a brand new canopy for any style of umbrella, so you don’t have to purchase an entirely new shade feature.
Decorating with Style
To decorate a lanai porch in a way that reflects your personal sense of taste, try adding little extras such as outdoor lamps, artwork, and sculpture. Plush cushions and throws in vibrant colors and tropical patterns add comfort and style to your furniture.
Embrace a tropical vibe with a color palette that reflects the beauty of nature. Think calming blues and greens, vibrant yellows and oranges, or earthy browns and beiges. A modern lanai porch will look exceptionally light and airy by choosing shades of aquamarine and blue-toned grays and a pop of color with a bright red accent piece.
Incorporate tropical patterns like palm leaves, pineapples, or floral motifs on throw pillows, rugs, or wall art. Play with textures – woven baskets, sisal rugs, and seagrass furniture add a touch of natural beauty.
Bring the outdoors in with potted plants, hanging ferns, or a vertical garden. Choose plants that thrive in partial shade and require minimal maintenance.
Bonus Tip:
It’s not enough to decorate a lanai porch beautifully; remember the comfort of your family and guests. Include bug-repellent candles or citronella plants to keep pesky mosquitos at bay. Offer guests comfortable seating and easy access to sunscreen and sunglasses that can be piled into a big wicker basket.
By incorporating these lanai porch ideas, you can decorate a lanai porch and transform it into a stylish and inviting extension of your living space.
