Simple Upgrades for a Cozy Back Porch

When we moved into our newly built farmhouse, one of the spaces I was most excited about was the back porch. It sits up on a hill overlooking the farm, and offers the kind of quiet that just makes you breathe deeper. But for the first few weeks? It was just us using our bag chairs.

As we slowly settled in, we knew we wanted the porch to be more than just a place to sit—it needed to be a space where we could gather as a family, enjoy the view, and relax after a long day. Now, with a few simple additions, it’s become one of our favorite places to be.

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Our Simple Setup

We started with the basics: seating. After a bit of searching, we found a pair of sturdy outdoor chairs and a small table at Lowe’s—perfect for morning coffee or a quiet moment in the evening. On the other side, we added a bench instead of a swing. We went back and forth on that decision, but with the strong winds we get on the hill, a bench just made more sense for now (and it’s a great spot to stretch out with a book).

By keeping it open, we can accommodate family gatherings.

Smart Storage (That Doubles as Seating)

Because we’re so exposed to wind, we knew we needed a place to store the porch cushions and pillows. We measured everything ahead of time and found a storage container that not only keeps things dry and protected but also offers bonus seating when the kids join us outside. A simple detail that’s made a big difference.

A Touch of Warmth Without a Fire Pit

One thing I’ve really missed from our old house is the fire pit. There’s just something about the flicker of flames and the warmth that makes the backyard so cozy. While we haven’t added a fire pit in the backyard yet, I found something that helps fill that gap beautifully: a Flamegarden candle. It’s wide and weighted enough to stay steady in the breeze, and the long wick gives off that soft, glowing flame that mimics a fire pit, just on a smaller scale. It’s the perfect centerpiece for our little glass table. You can check them out here: Flamegarden

Design Choices That Make a Difference

One of the best decisions we made (thanks to our contractor) was choosing cable wire instead of traditional wood slats for the porch railing. The result? A clean, open look that doesn’t block the view, no matter where you’re sitting. It’s subtle but makes a huge impact in how open and peaceful the space feels.

Tips for Planning Your Porch Retreat

If you’re dreaming of creating your own peaceful back porch retreat, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Think about your lifestyle: Do you need space for a big family gathering? Just a quiet reading spot? Let that guide your seating choices.
• Check the wind and weather: If you’re in a breezy spot like we are, consider weighted furniture, covered storage, and candles that can hold their flame.
• Start small and build slowly: You don’t have to finish everything at once. A couple of quality chairs and a table are enough to get started.
• Make it yours: A wind chime, a whiskey barrel full of flowers, or even a bird feeder can add charm.
• Don’t forget the view: If you’re building or renovating, talk to your contractor about railing options that preserve your sightlines.

Do you have a porch that you love to sit and watch the sunset? We’re taking our time adding any of the “extras” but we sure do enjoy what we’re building. And if you are over for a visit, I can pretty much guarantee that we will end the day sittting out here with a cup of coffee, tea or even hot chocolate watching the sunset!