Sunroom Design & Decorating

A good sunroom design will showcase natural elements and bring in natural light, making it seem like you're standing in your garden. Therefore, windows become the primary feature of the design. This can make it difficult to design, furnish and decorate so that the room feels comfortable and cozy.

The new sunroom will be the next focal point of your home when company arrives. Everybody will want to see it, so it's important to take your time and plan the design well.

One thing that makes the job somewhat easier is that sunroom design will typically be for a single purpose. You hardly ever see this room used for a study, a bedroom, or other second purpose.

The first thing to determine is the size and shape of the room. Straight or curved at one end; glass ceiling conservatory style or Florida style sunroom. Once that's decided, choose the size and style of the doors and windows.

Next, the theme is usually made up by mixing bright colors with many plants and furniture that is associated with southern climates and would be often used outdoors.

Rattan and wicker are examples. One color mix that works well is creamy whites, soft yellows, and pale greens. Light colors (along with window treatments) help keep the room cool in summer and warm in winter.

If you have enough space to introduce a water feature without making the room seem cramped or cluttered, you would enhance the impression of bringing the outdoors in, and you would have the opportunity to introduce aquatic plants, frequently found in ponds.

The gurgling sound of lapping water is very soothing. If you decide to include a water element, keep the water moving. Standing water will promote algae (which leads to mildew) and attract bugs.

Many homeowners have gone with tile flooring in their sunroom design. My preference would be a light colored wood plank - it's warmer, and it follows the theory of bringing the outdoors inside.

This would be a good place for bamboo flooring, or a bamboo (or straw) mat over a light wood floor. This theme can be promoted by adding bamboo blinds and a small wooden table.

While both wicker and rattan are classic materials for sunroom design, you can distinguish your room by having this furniture painted to match the walls, or stained in a contrasting color. You can also add to the tropical look by adding Tiki lamps.

Often, a center ceiling light with paddle fan provides the main source of light. These fixtures now come in a variety of styles reflecting different parts of the world (Indian, African, Floridian, Tahitian, etc.)

The remaining lighting should be soft, giving the room a cozy feeling. Scented candles and complete the atmosphere, inviting you in for an evening cocktail.

Seating will be determined by room size, but see if you can fit a love seat, couch, and rocking chair into the mix. Add soft cushions and plenty of plants.

Hanging baskets between the windows might work. Of course, this depends on your taste, which is how your creative thinking will give the room your personal signature.

When you're done, you should have a place where you can relax, feel the warmth of the sun and watch the birds fly by. It's a great place to sit and watch the kids play outside. A sunroom is a great addition to your home. Enjoy it.

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