12 Festive Fall Porch Ideas: Tips From the Experts

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Updated on December 22nd, 2020

Even though summer is over and the days are growing colder, you can still make the most of your front porch by adding festive fall decoration. From pumpkins and gourds to lanterns and rocking chairs, your options are endless. But where to start? We’ve asked experts, from Philadelphia, PA to Sacramento, CA, to share their best idea for decorating your front porch.

Front porch decorated for fall

Spice up your porch with a sofa and two clubs

Pop this favorite seating arrangement in your outdoor area to watch the game and enjoy time spent with friends (even virtually!) Need more multipurpose seating? Add a couple of durable outdoor ottomans for extra seating and a quick table when you need it to set down your game day spread. – Teak and Table

Add unexpected textures

When it comes to decorating your porch for this time of year, think about layers and unexpected textures. I like to start with some larger pots that will give height and then layer down with some smaller pots or use baskets instead to place some greenery like cabbage mixed with different shades of mums. Then layer in with pumpkins in muted tones of all shapes and sizes that blend together and last through the fall season rather than just Halloween. I also like to think outside the box with candles and lanterns that can add such a beautiful ambiance to the decor. Lastly, just add a simple wreath with satin ribbon and you have a stunning porch for all season long. – West Coast Capri

Take advantage of the fall flowers

Welcoming fall front porches are not limited to a mum and a pumpkin. You are limited only by the size of the porch and the bounds of your imagination. I love to mix the fall flowers and be creative with the containers I use. – Southern Nell’s Gracious Living

Layer your rugs

Fall is all about the layers, for you and your home. Create depth and add texture to your entryway with a fall doormat on top of a layering rug this season. Whether you love bright colors, more of a neutral tone, or a classic plaid, adding a layering rug can accentuate your doormat and freshen your porch for each season. This trend is easy, low maintenance, and is the perfect way to add instant curb appeal. – Nickel Designs

Create a welcoming entryway

The season of autumn persuades us to embrace its colors in our fashion choices and sparks new inspiration of color and design with our home décor. A simple change to a front entryway can enhance the landscape while also providing a warm “welcome” to guests who enter. – Fermob

Pumpkins on the steps leading up to the front door

Arrange pumpkins and gourds in a wagon

Get an old crock, old wagon, or goat cart. Fill it with mini pumpkins or giant gourds depending on the size. Everyone will love it! – Mighty Man Handyman

Mix neutral and bold colors

This is the season to toss the neutrals and break out the bold colors that mother nature provides. Grab some bright colored mums, dried prairie grasses/cornstalks, and you can never have too many pumpkins! – APS Design

Consider adding blue pots to your display

Terra cotta pots are a great match for fall colors and offers a neutral backdrop for fall flowers. Don’t limit yourself strictly to fall colors – blue pots especially offer a great contrast to pumpkins and other orange tones. Make sure that they are weather-proofed and ready for winter. Check that the drainage holes aren’t plugged up, positioning your pots on pot feet instead of saucers, and making sure that the soil isn’t compacted, which will help the pot to drain. – Ceramo

Showcase personality on your doorstep

Maintaining a seasonally inspired porch can be a lot of work. An easier way to showcase some personality on your doorstep is through a funny/clever doormat that is bound to get a chuckle from your guests. – Funny Welcome

Rock into the season

I love a good pair of rocking chairs on the front porch. Let the architecture of the home dictate the style whether modern, whimsical, or traditional. They all speak the same language, Welcome! And stay a while. – The Open Room

Venture to an antique shop for decoration

Your local antique shop can be a treasure trove for funky pots for your porch plants. You can even add a coat of paint to showcase your own unique style. – Crouch Florist

Include fall flowers in your display

Nothing says fall like a porch filled with potted mums. Adding in a variety of fall flowers will fill your porch with color and help create a fresh, vibrant look. Finish it off by adding in accessories such as metal lanterns for soft lighting, autumn toned pillows and throws for porch swings and chairs, and layered rugs to welcome in your guests. – House of Jade

Julia is a part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about real estate and design trends. Her dream home be a charming beachside home with lots of light.
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