Coastal Charm: A Family's Dream Porch Transformation in Charlotte

A family of six moved into a fully furnished model home in Charlotte, North Carolina, only to discover after six weeks that the space didn't align with their indoor-outdoor lifestyle. They enlisted interior designer Bridget Gasque of Loftus Design to infuse architectural character and coastal flair into their backyard. The centerpiece of the renovation? Replacing a bland paver patio with a 324-square-foot open porch designed for lounging, grilling, dining, and catching the breeze.

Photos by Jim Schmid Photography

Porch at a Glance

• Function: Family relaxation, conversation, grilling, and dining with backyard views
• Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
• Size: 324 square feet (18 by 18 feet)
• Designer: Bridget Loftus Gasque, Loftus Design

"The original area was just stone pavers—it wasn't cozy, and it wasted backyard space," Gasque explains. The new porch delivers ample room for multiple activities while capturing the breezy coastal aesthetic the family loves. Tongue-and-groove ceiling panels, wicker and glass furnishings, and colorful pillows evoke a beachy vibe, while durable ipe decking grounds the space.

The pitched roof amplifies the sense of spaciousness. By keeping the deck just 26 inches above grade, Gasque eliminated the need for railings—preserving uninterrupted sightlines to the yard. (Always verify local railing codes when planning your porch or deck.)

A two-tiered glass coffee table offers surface space for drinks and games above, with storage for reading material below—its transparency enhancing the airy feel. Instead of a traditional sofa arrangement, the clients requested four lounge chairs positioned in a circle to foster conversation.

Chinese garden stools: West Elm; pillows: Cost Plus World Market; coffee table, chairs, and planters: Pottery Barn

Shrubbery borders the deck to prevent children from jumping off, while trios of large fiberglass planters anchor the corners. Climbing vines trained up drapery rods draw the eye upward, softening the structure.

Though the family preferred openness over a screened porch, they wanted the option to close off the space for shade and privacy—especially since the community pool is visible. Gasque selected fade-, mildew-, and stain-resistant Sunbrella fabric with rustproof dark metal hardware, keeping the drapery system visually light. Outdoor-rated ceiling fans provide airflow and deter insects.

Ceiling fans: Home Depot; drapery hardware: Pottery Barn

Recessed ceiling lighting handles general illumination, while lantern candle sconces create ambiance for evening gatherings. The dark metal finishes on lanterns, coffee table, and hardware unify the design.

The dining area features a concrete-top table whose color and texture complement the coastal palette. All seating—dining chairs and lounge chairs—comes from Pottery Barn for cohesion. "I don't often source so much from one vendor, but it was important everything worked together out here," Gasque notes.

A kitchen-access door beside the dining table streamlines meal service, with the grill positioned nearby. A low-maintenance moss-and-succulent centerpiece requires only occasional misting.

Shell container: Ballard Designs

Pro Tip: Large fiberglass planters are significantly lighter and easier to maneuver than ceramic equivalents, especially when filled with soil.

The porch roofline aligns with upper-level windows and echoes the home's architecture, while foundation plantings soften the transition to the yard. The result? A family-favorite spot where backyard views and fresh air take center stage.

Builder: Robert Epps Custom Homes & Renovations