Porch

Porch

Over the years, outdoor living spaces have started gaining immense popularity in terms of functionality and aesthetics. People have started giving extreme importance to their outdoor spaces. Be it summer or winter, these spaces have become a spot for recreation or a relaxation haven for the occupants.

These outdoor structures, although being part of the house, usually are attached or detached to main structure, covered or uncovered, in form of a porch, patio, balcony, verandah and deck. Most of us would think they are all the same and undistinguishable. Yes it is true but only till a certain extent. Let us take a look at the precise differences between these terms to broaden your design knowledge so next time when we see a patio, we call it a patio and not a verandah.

What is a porch?

A porch is a low, covered outdoor structure, mainly constructed at the entryway of the house or the building. It is usually an extension from the main structure and maybe open or enclosed by screens, walls, latticework, windows and columns.

People started building porches in their house during the early 1900’s. The purpose and appearance of porches differed in different regions. Porches were built to protect houses from extreme weather conditions and dirt. Porches were small, open and positioned on the same level. South Western Regions used porches to shade the entrance and entire southern wall.

A porch doesn’t necessarily have to be covered. They are sometimes partially covered and in case of a two storeyed house, the overhang of the second floor can be the covering or roof of the porch. A porch extending from front to side of the house is called a “wrap around” porch.

Where an enclosed porch is concerned, there is a second door that leads to the main house once you enter the first door to the porch. These enclosed porches are mainly screened with or without glass and are sometimes viewed as informal extension of living room or parlor.

Porches are not only used for protection against weather condition but are considered as extended living spaces with chairs, porch swing, bench etc. during pleasant conditions they are considered as perfect place for socializing with friend and neighbors or relaxing zones.