Easy Breezy | 5 Homes with Delightful Front Porches

At homes in locales from Cape Cod to California, the front porch, which normally serves as a mere introduction, becomes a destination in its own right, perfect for soaking up the best of every season.

East Coast Style in a Scenic California Setting

Santa Barbara, California | Daniel Carpenter, Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Barbara Brokerage

An inviting covered porch lines the front of this light-filled Santa Barbara home, inspired by the iconic residences of Cape Cod. Perfect for enjoying the idyllic privacy of the landscaped grounds, it serves as the perfect introduction to the 3,821-square-foot interiors, which offer a great room, a kitchen with a breakfast nook, and five bedrooms—including a second owner’s suite with its own living area, kitchen, and deck. The front porch wraps around to a breezeway that connects with another porch overlooking the verdant backyard.

Sunnymeade

Southampton, New York | Harald Grant & Bruce Grant, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

Sunnymeade is one of the best-known and most beloved homes in Southampton. Its shady wraparound front porch is one of its many peaceful outdoor spaces designed for appreciation of the pastoral setting, which includes a refreshing pool and a sun-washed terrace. Equally enchanting and bright, the 9,000-square-foot interiors feature six bedrooms, sophisticated living and entertaining spaces, an expertly appointed kitchen with an enviable La Cornue range, and a rare combination of timeless tradition and cutting-edge modern amenities.

Southern-Inspired Refinement

Houston, Texas | Cindy Burns, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty 

Inspired by the quintessential townhouses of New Orleans and Charleston, this custom-built home on a tree-lined street in Houston’s desirable Museum District is introduced by two breezy full-height gallery porches stretching nearly the full width of the façade. The home’s inviting 4,801-square-foot interiors feature reclaimed brickwork and wood floors, a media room with a wet bar, and a guest apartment with a kitchen. A covered back porch overlooks the heated pool and spa.

Cape Cod Charmer

Centerville, Massachusetts | Colleen Riley, Sotheby’s International Realty – Osterville Brokerage

Exemplifying the charm of Cape Cod, this enchanting four-bedroom home features formal living and dining rooms, a wet bar, a cozy family room, and an impressive kitchen with top-tier appliances, custom cabinets, granite countertops, and a mahogany island. The impeccably maintained 1.01-acre grounds can be easily enjoyed on the iconic columned front porch—as well as the enclosed three-season porch, which opens to a patio and outdoor kitchen. A seven-seat theater and a wine cellar complete the compelling pictures.

New Mexico Mountain Retreat

San Jose, New Mexico | Roxanne Apple & Johnnie Gillespie, Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage

Secluded in the Sangre de Cristo foothills near the banks of El Rito Creek, this tranquil 115-acre mountain estate is anchored by a 2,400-square-foot log cabin featuring an open-plan great room with reclaimed wood floors and a moss rock fireplace, a cook’s kitchen, an owner’s bedroom with a fireplace and a wood-paneled bath, and a two-bedroom sleeping loft with a private bath. The wide, relaxing porch is ideal for dining or surveying the scenery. A path leads to an open-air plunge pool and hot tub.

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