Many of us have strong memories of a porch from our childhood whether this was our porch, a family or friends’ porch or one at a cabin we visited. The memories probably include a rustic style room build with lots of natural wood. Rustic-style porches continue to be very popular today although they a re a bit more finished than they were in the past. I couldn’t help but chuckle when I stumbled across a Popular Science article from May 1980 that discusses the popularity of the rustic screened porch at that time and even detailed the use of rough hewn cross beams in their construction. We can easily design a porch for you full of the rustic flavor of today.
The key to building a porch with rustic elements comes down to the materials you choose to finish your space and the design details you use. Of these factors, wood is the most material influencing a rustic porch feel. Typically wood comes in smooth and rough hewn finishes. Choosing wood that has distinct graining and a rough appearance will make your space look more rustic. The interior ceiling details of your space also help to promote a certain aesthetic of ruggedness and outdoorsy charm. A ceiling finished with an exposed rafter system, or rough hewn tongue and groove bead board can deliver these results. The rafters in general can convey an old cabin style ambiance by choosing to use larger, beefier rafters with more masculinity than typical rafters. Timber frame is often used in settings with large structural members. A typical porch will use a 4 x 4 or 6 x 6, but by using 8 x 8’s you can create a grander appearance that is conducive to the qualities of a rustic space. In addition to bulkier rafters, and larger Timber framing additional members can also be used to enhance the rustic look with details such as a king truss.
Other interior options that scream with rustic influence include using unfinished wood and staining it in a rustic hue, or clear coating it to retain the wood’s natural splendor. When installing a knee wall, you may choose to use a wood finish as well for continuity of the area’s rustic appearance. Cedar is a top choice for posts which can also be upgraded to a choice cedar which gives you a knotty finish. One great thing about cedar is you don’t need to add anything for protection because cedar won’t rot like other woods.
Outdoor fireplaces have become a staple within the realm of rustic porch designs too. With this in mind, if you intend on including an outdoor fireplace within your porch you can elevate the rugged look by choosing materials that take their cues from nature. By using stone, slate and other natural looking hardscape materials you can continue the rustic theme of your space.
Remembering the clearest path to a rustic porch involves the use of wood and materials that enhance that cabin feel will help you achieve your dreams of the ultimate porch. Archadeck of Columbus can take the memories of the familiar porch you from your childhood and add modern, rustic touches for a truly elegant cabin-in-the-woods style porch setting. Contact us today for a free consultation and start your journey to making your outdoor dreams a reality. (740) 879 – 3730
westcolumbus@archadeck.net
See more examples of porches and screened porches with rustic influences by visiting our covered porch gallery and screen porch gallery located on our website.
Columbus Decks, Porches and Patios by Archadeck of Columbus 