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If the lighting is grim, replacing the porch light with something more attractive is a relatively simple job for an electrician. Use the home’s overall style as inspiration for the new lighting, whether Arts & Crafts-inspired, Victorian or contemporary. The same goes for numbers. “It’s a good idea to go for larger numbers that are well lit and can be easily seen from the street,” says Eshun. “There’s nothing more frustrating for your visitors than having to strain to see which house is yours.”

Create a comfortable seating area with furniture that complements your home’s style, a low table for a cool drink, and an area rug of sisal, cotton or other outdoor-grade material. “In style, remember less is more,” observes Eshun. “You’re better off going for more low-key fabrics and patterns, such as stripes or solids. Leave the frilly floral patterns for the back deck; don’t forget your front porch has to fit into the landscape of the street, just like the rest of your front elevation.”

Outdoor curtains have become a big trend in recent years, adding instant coziness and a subtle sense of enclosure without completely shutting you off from neighbours. You can buy curtain rods and porch curtains ready-made, or make your own; just be sure they are the proper length and made from outdoor-grade materials. The addition of tie-backs or weights to bottom hems finishes the look and prevents them from blowing around too much.

Finally, extend the garden onto the porch with hanging plants or flowers and a pair of matching urns, either flanking the door or on either side of the steps. “Put a wreath on the door year-round; it’s such a simple thing, and there’s no reason you should only hang it for the holidays. If you buy an everlasting wreath, you can customize it for the different seasons, with dried hydrangeas in spring, lilies in summer, and seedpods or fall flowers in the autumn.”

From being, at most, a transitional space from the street to the inside of your home, front porches have made a big comeback. “It’s your first chance to make an impression on visitors and express your personality,” says Eshun, “and it’s a great place for casual entertaining and just sitting out and getting reacquainted with your neighbours.” Plus, it’s still one of the best ways to enjoy a warm Toronto summer evening.