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Comfortable Screened Porch for Fall

Southern Living, Sep 2004 by Sandner, Julie Feagin

This outdoor room is the perfect spot for entertaining, relaxing, and everyday living.

Screened porches aren't what they used to be. Formerly filled with rows of rockers, today they're an extra room in the house, where you can eat a fancy lunch or simply lounge. For Nancy and Stephen Dilger, their porch is the perfect retreat. While they live in Wake Forest, North Carolina, they're only steps away from the Adirondack Mountains. Well, almost.

Nancy grew up in the Adirondacks, so when it came to designing the porch, she wanted to bring that rustic feel into the space. The stone fireplace and cedar beams are elements often found in homes of that region.

Solid Construction

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The screens are attached to 10-inch solid cedar posts. "The wide beams lend a more substantial look to the construction," Stephen says. The cedar beams are carried up to the ceiling, staying true to Adirondack style.

A tinted concrete floor resembles large stone pavers. Before the concrete was fully set, a stamp was used to give it a distinctive look. Finally, a layer of glaze was applied.

Fireplace as Focal Point

Located at the far end of the room, the magnificent fireplace is made from hand-cut Arkansas stone. It's constructed in a dry-stack form, meaning without mortar shelling.

Nancy and Stephen, along with their children, enjoy making s'mores and hosting oyster roasts here.

Accessories Make a Room

Spacious dimensions of the room allow for a seating area in front of the fireplace, as well as a dining table. Wicker chairs and a cozy settee with plush cushions make this a comfy spot. Rattan chairs surround the glass table. Lamps and pillows add finishing touches. JULIE FEAGIN SANDNER

COMFORTABLE SCREENED PORCH FOR FALL

Page 140: Interiors by Judy Pickett, Design Lines, LTD, Raleigh, (919) 852-0570; builder was Stephen Dilger, Inc., Custom Homes, Raleigh, (919) 848-0342.

Comfortable Screened Porch for Fall

Southern Living, Sep 2004 by Sandner, Julie Feagin

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