Porch Perfect

Soothing hues and simple furnishings bring serenity to a jumbled space

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A screen porch offers the ultimate in crossover appeal, combining open-air ease with indoor coziness. Unless, that is, the space has been used and abused as a garage annex, like the one at the rear of this suburban Cape. Clutter prevailed, and the room was furnished haphazardly at best. What better project for the Home Team? Over the course of an afternoon's work, editor-in-chief Donna Sapolin, senior design and style editor Linda Whitmarsh, and stylist Kim Freeman enlisted the aid of paint, a ceiling fan, and a few simple furnishings and fabrics to restore grace and order to the porch. The end result is a restful retreat with room to dine, unwind, and even catch a few z's.

Challenge: wasted charm, little comfort
The porch has great bones: wood-framed screen panels, a fieldstone floor, and vertical paneling on two interior walls. But the random furniture placement and range of competing styles are inharmonious, and the hanging lamp gives off a utilitarian, workshop feel.

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