A front porch adds curb appeal, comfort, and usable outdoor space to your home. It serves as a natural extension of your entryway and can make your house feel more inviting. Building a front porch also offers practical benefits, like extra seating and shelter from the elements.
Craftsman’s Choice has helped homeowners across Minnesota add front porches that match their homes and meet their needs. Our team understands what works in this climate and knows how to design a porch that looks great and holds up over time.
How Do You Plan to Use Your Front Porch?
Before you get too far into materials or design features, the first thing we ask our clients is: What do you want to use your porch for?
This single question drives almost every decision moving forward. Are you planning to sit outside with a cup of coffee in the mornings? Host evening get-togethers with friends? Or simply add a touch of charm to your curb appeal? The answer will help determine the size, layout, and style of your porch.
1. Try a Furniture Layout Test
If you already have outdoor furniture in mind, here’s a tip we often recommend:
- Take your furniture out into the yard where the porch will go.
- Arrange it just like you would on the finished porch.
- Use string or even draw around the pieces on the ground.
This helps you figure out the true size you’ll need. There’s nothing worse than finishing a porch project, setting up your seating area, and realizing the space feels cramped. Planning this way gives you a realistic sense of space—so you can comfortably pull out chairs, walk around a table, and enjoy the area the way you imagined.
Design Style and Functionality
Another major consideration when building a front porch is the overall style and look. Do you want something traditional, modern, or somewhere in between? Some homeowners love that old-timey, historic front porch feel—with detailed railings, beadboard ceilings, and wide steps. Others prefer a more updated design with clean lines and contemporary finishes.
2. Think About Enclosure Options
You’ll also need to think about whether your porch will be open or enclosed. Here are a few options we offer at Craftsman’s Choice:
- Open-Air Porch: Ideal for seasonal use and classic curb appeal.
- Screened Porch with Storm Windows: Allows you to enjoy the outdoors without bugs, while also being able to open and close windows depending on the weather.
- Fully Enclosed Porch: If you want to use your porch year-round, we can install insulation and even heating options so it becomes an extended living space.
Every one of these choices affects the overall design and cost. That’s why it’s important to work with a team who knows how to weigh all the factors and guide you toward the best fit for your lifestyle.
Size, Insulation, and Budget Considerations
Determining the right size for your porch isn’t just about furniture layout—it’s also about comfort, code requirements, and future flexibility. We always recommend giving yourself a little more room than you think you need, especially if you want to grow into the space or add features later.
3. Consider These Cost Factors
As you’re thinking about the budget for building a front porch, here are some items that influence pricing:
- Enclosure Type: An enclosed porch with heating and insulation will cost more than an open-air design.
- Windows and Screens: Choosing between storm windows, screens, or glass changes both the price and the seasonal usability.
- Insulation Needs: If you’re enclosing the porch, insulation becomes important for temperature control.
- Custom Design Features: Decorative columns, railings, or historical details can add to the charm—and the cost.
At Craftsman’s Choice, we walk you through all of these decisions, helping you prioritize your must-haves and stay within budget.
Why Work With Craftsman’s Choice
We understand that building a front porch is more than just adding on a structure—it’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle and improves your home. That’s why we take the time to listen, offer expert guidance, and tailor the design to your unique goals.
From helping you plan your layout with real furniture, to choosing materials and enclosure styles, our team will make sure you’re confident in every step.
We’re proud to be Minnesota’s trusted front porch contractor, and we look forward to helping you build a porch that brings beauty, comfort, and value to your home.
In Summary
When building a front porch, you need to think through how you’ll use the space, what size fits your needs, how you want it to look, and whether it should be open or enclosed. These key decisions shape the design and function of your porch—and working with the right team makes the process easy.
Contact us today to get started on a porch project that’s built just for you. At Craftsman’s Choice, we’re here to make sure your new porch turns out exactly the way you want.
