8 Porch Ceiling Ideas That Instantly Upgrade Your Outdoor Space

Timeless Shiplap

When in doubt, you can't go wrong with a bright layer of shiplap. "A white shiplap ceiling is always a classic, fresh, and bright way to elevate the space," says Sallie Lord, founder of GreyHunt Interiors.

The Narrower, The Better

In some cases, it's a good idea to forego wide paneling and instead consider narrow pieces of wood.

"We added beadboard to the ceiling of this outdoor porch and painted it in a beautiful light blue that reflects the sky," says Jeanne Barber, founder of Camden Grace Interiors. "It adds texture and just the right touch of color overhead."

Widen With White

Make your porch seem bigger with a striking white ceiling.

"Paneling, coffering, and utilizing beams on a ceiling is always going to add interest and depth to a neutral space," says Susana Simonpietri, creative director of Chango.

"Here, in collaboration with McAlpine, we had interesting architectural elements to work with and added tonal paneling on the ceiling. This technique helped to brighten up the white, draw the eye up, and create a cool contrast with the granite flooring and black furnishings."

Pendant Lighting

You'll be surprised at how much of a difference good lighting can make.

"For porches, pergolas, and covered patios, we like to elevate and illuminate the space with pendant groupings," says Aly Morford, co-founder and principal designer of Pure Salt Interiors. "This adds a sense of architecture and brings in a new texture and shape to the design."

An Indoor-Outdoor Feel

Consider your porch a second living room—just remember to use weatherproof décor.

"I love treating the porch as an extension of the home’s interior," says interior designer Vanessa Deleon. "I’ve used wooden slats to add warmth and texture [to the ceiling], incorporated outdoor chandeliers for a touch of elegance, and even designed coffered ceilings or exposed beams to bring architectural interest."

Coordinating Colors

To prevent your porch from feeling like an afterthought, paint the ceiling the same color as your home's exterior.

"A well-designed ceiling draws the eye upward and makes the space feel curated, intimate, and truly connected to the rest of the home," Deleon adds.

Pick Plants

Plants are an inexpensive way to transform a porch—and you can add a trellis for even more appeal. "Treillage can help add visual interest and the illusion of extra height," says interior designer J.P. Horton. "Paint the ceiling one color and the trellis another to really make it sing."

Screen Solution

Finally, invest in some sun protection.

"At [this] East End house, we introduced a brise-soleil into the porch to provide shade, while allowing more light to penetrate [the space] and the living room beyond," says architect Andrew Franz. "It also allows for views of the stars at night and animated shadows by day."