Expert: Rikki Nyman - 1/25/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello,

I am interested in adding on a covered front porch to our Dutch Colonial.  I am having trouble finding pictures of this and I want to make sure it blends with the house and doesn't look out of place.  I also don't want a really "country" style - I prefer clean, simple architecture and craftsman style.  Attached is a picture of the house.  Can you advise whether this is something that would look appropriate?  Thank you!

ANSWER: Your house is beautiful. It's a terrific example of the Dutch Colonial Revival subtype.

In the course of my research, I've come across hundreds of articles on home remodeling from 1900 to 1960. Some are better than others, but ultimately all end up changing the character of the house.

When I look at your house I see a building that is obviously loved and well cared for. So my first question is, what are you trying to achieve? Do you live in a climate where an enclosed porch is necessary to reduce heat loss in the winter? Do you get gusting winds and rain while guests wait to be admitted? Or do you want update your home and make it look more Craftsman bungalow-ish with the battered columns and a sitting porch?

Understanding your goals would make it easier for me to make appropriate suggestions.

Best regards,
Rikki Nyman
www.antiquehomestyle.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you, Rikki.  To answer your question, the porch would function as a semi-private outdoor living space, and a place to watch the kids play (they often play in the front yard with other kids).  I don't want to necesarily change the look or character of the home, I just have always wanted a front porch and like the inviting feel of them.  However I don't want it enclosed, just covered for a more cozy feel.  I hope that makes sense!  

Thank you so much for your advice!

Cathy

Answer
I really think it would be wise to leave the façade of your house intact.

Have you considered creating a terrace from the entry across the front of the house? You could add a freestanding arbor or trellis, or possibly create some type of pergola that could provide a cozy spot to have a cup of coffee and block the sun, but provide a good view of the yard. It wouldn't necessarily require any modifications to the house at all.

With the right structure and plants, you could have an extra outdoor room and enhance the curb appeal without compromising the integrity of the house.

Another thought is that you could balance the sun room (on the left in your picture) with a covered porch on the other side of the house. That might give you want without affecting the central mass.

Both the pergola and the porch extension would be historically appropriate to the house.

Best,
Rikki