Front Porches: Part of the Laid-Back Florida Lifestyle

Home design goes through phases like anything else, with consumer preferences evolving on everything from paint color schemes to the architecture of the actual home.

Recently, one home feature that is making a comeback is the porch, especially here in Florida.

The porch began disappearing from the general home scene decades ago but recent years have shown a shift in this trend, according to The Wall Street Journal. In fact, the WSJ reports that, based on Census Bureau data, 63 percent of new single-family homes completed in 2013 have porches. In 1993, that number was only at 42 percent.

Here in Florida, covered rear porches, often called lanais, are a popular space for activities ranging from relaxation to entertainment. We’ve recently seen an uptick in requests for front porches on homes, as well.

“A front porch seems very relaxing and social,쳌 Stacey Perez, Manager of the Highland Homes Personal Selection Studio, said. “There is something about a front porch that emits a comforting, down-home vibe.쳌

Front porches also give the opportunity to be friendlier with your neighbors and community as a whole.

“Having a porch gives you an opportunity to see and interact with your neighbors that isn’t possible when enclosed inside your home,쳌 Perez said.

Not only does the porch provide another area for gathering, entertaining and relaxing, but it adds character to the home. “It gives a home a friendly face and architectural character,쳌 Perez said. It also gives you a visible space to express yourself.

“The type of furniture and décor out front can say a lot about your style,쳌 Perez said. The type of chairs you put out on your porch, such as rocking chairs, benches, folding chairs or heavy rattan chairs can indicate how much time you spend out there, she said. “Pots, plants or trees can add character!쳌

Other porch trends include building fully functional outdoor living spaces complete with stereo speakers and ambient lighting, and often screened-in to be more weather-friendly.

If you’re looking for a new home in Zephyrhills or elsewhere in Tampa Bay or Central Florida that has a welcoming front porch, you’re in luck! We recently introduced the Parker, the newest of our home plans to feature a front porch. With 4-bedrooms and 1,715 square feet of living space, this home plan embraces the idea of outdoor living with a columned front porch and covered rear lanai. Inside, the Parker boasts many other sought-after home design features such as an open living area with counter-height kitchen island, luxury master bathroom with dual vanities, garden tub and tiled shower, walk-in pantry, and convenient drop zone.

The Parker is currently being built as the model home at two of our newest communities: Country Club Estates and Saratoga. Country Club Estates offers new homes in Winter Haven from the $130’s, while Saratoga boasts Lakeland new homes from the $150’s. Both model centers are expected to open in early fall so you can check out the stylish Parker home design firsthand!

The Parker is available in select Highland Homes communities throughout Central Florida and Tampa Bay. For more information on our stylish and welcoming home designs, and to find your Florida new home, visit the Highland Homes website today!