Sun room design began with the simple need to screen in outdoor areas like porches and patios. These improvised structures have since evolved into elegant sun room additions which increase the valuable square footage of a home and make outdoor spaces functional year-round. No longer just boxy eyesores, modern patio sun rooms are available in many architectural styles and come with state-of-the-art features such as thermal window and roof systems.

The rise in popularity of outdoor living rooms has lead to increased demand for sun room design and construction. The main function of a patio sun room is to protect your family and friends from insects and weather while enjoying an airy outdoor space. Typical sun room design includes wall-to-wall thermal windows for unimpeded views of the garden and remarkable energy efficiency. Windows with screen systems will allow you to open up the room to fresh breezes while keeping out unwanted pests.

Patio sun rooms are extremely adaptable to a wide range of leisure pursuits including entertaining, dining, relaxing, reading, crafting, spa soaking, container gardening, exercising, gaming, and sewing. A sun room addition is also the perfect spot for children or pets to safely play while taking in the fresh air and sunshine. Because of efficient thermal design, modern sun rooms allow these activities to be pursued all year long in many geographic areas. Sun room design usually takes into account your local climate, but there are also portable air conditioning and heating units to help regulate the room's temperature.

Many homeowners opt for a sun room addition rather than building a conventional room because of the time and cost savings. Patio sun rooms can often be installed on concrete or decking in just a couple days. There may also be lower tax assessments available for the added sun room square footage versus a standard room.

Sun Room Furniture and Décor

As a hybrid of indoor and outdoor spaces, a sun room addition can be equipped with a diverse assortment of furnishings. Traditional patio furniture can be used for a relaxed, casual feel. Patio table sets constructed of metal or wooden frames are a natural choice. For added comfort, look for cushions and pillows that will make the sun room furniture more inviting. The latest trend is the pub table or counter-height table set which both feature a higher table surface and elevated chair design. Create a soft landing underfoot with stylish indoor-outdoor rugs or carpeting which will reduce worries about stains and mildew while adding coziness.

Patio sun rooms can also accommodate more substantial furniture pieces such as sofas, loveseats, chaise lounges, and armchairs. Since the sun room will have more exposure to sunlight and temperature changes than the rest of your home, be sure that the furniture is suitable for this use. Popular choices for sun room furniture frames include wicker, teak, and rattan because of their seasonal durability. Your upholstery choices should also take into account the exposure to the elements. Sunbrella® fabrics are suitable for either outdoor or indoor use and are even popping up in family rooms and living rooms. These new versatile fabrics are almost indistinguishable from designer fabrics due to their soft, pleasing textures along with fashionable colors and patterns.