Pinterest has front-door porticos pegged as a rising home trend this year.
A front door portico is an elegant structure thatenhances a home’s curb appealand can increase home value.
Porticos also protect you, visitors, and the front door from weather elements.
Credit: Adam Albright
With various designs, shapes, and sizes, a portico can personalize a home.
What is a front-door portico?
While a porch and portico are often interchangeable, they are not the same.
Credit: Brie Williams
Aporch is typically an enclosed entrywayand is often used for entertaining or relaxing.
Like a porch, it has a roof supported by columns but is open on three sides.
Porticos add architectural detail and define an entryway.
Credit: Ed Gohlich
Because they are not enclosed, they allow for maximum airflow and decorative appeal.
They also add a top cover for anyone fumbling with keys in the rain or snow.
Portico styles range from classic to modern, Victorian to Greek to Colonial revival.
Credit:Helen Norman
The number of columns may also vary.
Porticos are incredibly versatile and are easily tailored to fit your needs and style.
Portico Design Considerations
Front-door portico designs vary in style, shape, and size.
Still, if you want something unique, opt for a completely bespoke design.
Keep these considerations in mind:
Style: Porticos can be straight, curved, or octagonal.
Column design will also influence the style of your entrance.
Smooth plain columns suit any style and property age, while fluted columns give a more traditional aesthetic.
Materials: Common column materials include stone and brick covered in plaster.
However, you’re free to also use wood or cast stone.
It is available in a variety of finishes and colors.
They provide shade to prevent UV rays from damaging the home’s interior or doors.
Also, porticos can act as outdoor mudrooms, minimizing dirt and grime that enters the home.
Differentiates a Home’s Exterior: Porticos showcase personality.
The price goes up from there.
How long the roof lasts will depend on the material used and the climate in the region.
If well-maintained and sealed regularly, the columns can last as long as the roof.
Porticos need proper drainage, so be sure to install gutters and run-off systems that match the primary roof.
It offers a perfect setting for other design details, such as unique lighting, trim, and flooring.
A portico is a worthwhile investment in many neighborhoods.
