From classic Chippendale to contemporary cables, here are a few porch railing ideas to try on for size.
So how do you choose?
Two important factors in deciding which style is right for your home are the architectural aesthetic and location.
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Matthew Gleason
Houston-based interior designerKatie Davisexplains that though homes may be similar, each will require a different treatment.
“There are a few factors we consider when deciding on a railing style,” Davis says.
“First and foremost we look at the bones of the house: Is it a historical home?
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn
What style architecture is it (or was it)?
We always have a go at stay true to the home’s origins.
Sometimes, simple and timeless is best.
Credit: Ngoc Mihn Ngo
“Simple square or round “pickets” would be very appropriate on a vernacular Southern home.”
Slim Spindles and Classic Balusters
Clark reports that turned balusters would pair well with a Georgian design.
“There is a new wave of coastal modern or coastal farmhouse,” she says.
Credit: Photo: Annie Schlechter; Stylist: Elizabeth Beeler
“Look to places likeSeaside or Rosemary Beach.
It’s like boat wire, so it’s especially good incoastal towns.”
Millwork Motifs
Looking for another way to add panache?
This second-floor Gulf-front porch with two Adirondack chairs facing the water is an ideal spot from which to watch the sun rise and set. The horizontal rail, rather than conventional vertical pickets, provides a seamless view.
Dial up the details by introducing a motif.
This railing style adds a fun, vintage look to the exterior.
This century-oldNorth Carolina homefeatures a long porch with classic white posts as railing to add to the historic ambiance.
White Cable Railing
White railing is perfect for absorbing the sunlight.
Century-Old Charm
James Ransom
Keeping the charm of an old house is always a good idea.
The porch onthis Birmingham homefeatures black iron railing that looks stunning amongst the white brick.
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Liz Strong
Thishouse planfeatures a small portion of white post railing to add a visually interesting element to the porch.
Cutout Motifs
Porch railings that provide more privacy don’t have to be boring.
Thin Railings
For a more understated look on your exterior, thinner rails are a great option.
Like the interiors, the front yard tells a story with roadside-rescue boxwoods and flowers inspired by Hendersonâs childhood garden.Credit:JAMES RANSOM; STYLING: Veronica Olson
Symmetry
Having visual symmetry in the exterior of your home can add a ton of curb appeal.
The porch on thisAlabama lake cabinfeatures a jutted out section to make more space and add geometry.
Rustic Wood
Take the ambiance of the outdoors and bring it in to your porch.
Credit:Erin Adams
The porch on thisNorth Carolina mountain housefeatures a wild hog railing that matches the vibe of the atmosphere.
Don’t Forget: Safety and Maintenance
Finally, don’t forget.
There’s a reason the railings exist in the first place.
Credit:LAUREY W. GLENN
Whatever style you choose, railings will have to comply with local codes.
Credit:Brie Williams
Credit:Photo: Laurey W. Glenn; Stylist: Lindsey Ellis Beatty
Credit:LAUREY W. GLENN
The Maple family dubbed their home Proud Mary, a nod to the name of the woman who (along with her husband) commissioned its construction in 1906.Credit:James Ransom
Credit: Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Kathleen Varner
Credit: Kip Dawkins
Credit: Annie Schlechter; Styling: Page Mullins
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Page Mullins
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Page Mullins
Credit: Dane Tashima; Styling: Page Mullins
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Kathryn Lott
Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Matthew Gleason
Credit: Annie Schlechter; Styling: Raina Kattelson
Credit: Photography by Brian Woodcock; Styling by Natalie Warady
