While there’s nothing like a tropical vacation, sometimes there’s no need to travel far to feel as though you’re kicking back in paradise. If you live in a warm weather locale, you may be looking for ways to maximize your outdoor living setup at home, and perhaps you’re curious about whether a lanai is right for you.
Below, we walk you through the basics of what exactly a lanai is and how it differs from a porch, patio, and veranda. We also explore the benefits of adding a lanai to your home and the variety of ways such a space can come in handy, whether you wish to use it for socializing or simply crave a space in which you can unwind after a busy work day.
MEET THE EXPERT
- Kevin Harris is the founder of Kevin Harris Architect, LLC, in Baton Rouge, LA.
- Colleen Simonds is the founder of her eponymous interior design firm, which is based in Pittsburgh, PA.
- Sarah Storms is the founder of Styled by Storms, an interior design firm based in Maplewood, N.J.
What Is a Lanai?
Lanais are “a type of outdoor room toward the back of a home that is enclosed with screens or windows to keep insects and debris out,” says Kevin Harris of Kevin Harris Architect, LLC.
The term “lanai” originated in Hawaii. “Lanais are popular in warm and tropical climates because they provide a way to enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by insects, and they offer shade and protection from the sun,” Harris adds. But lanais are not always fully screened in; oftentimes, one wall is open and exposed to the elements.
- Can be enjoyed during many seasons of the year and bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor living
- Can be outfitted with furniture including sofas, chairs, tables, and even a TV
- Best for warm weather climates where they can be fully enjoyed as much as possible
- Some people may crave a more simplified outdoor living space that doesn’t require the same design needs as a living room or family room
Lanai vs. Patio vs. Porch vs. Veranda
Given that there are so many different types of outdoor living spaces, you may be wondering how exactly a lanai distinguishes itself from say, a screened porch. Keep in mind that lanais, patios, porches, and verandas are all within the same general family but feature different characteristics.
“A veranda can wrap around the entire home while a patios and porches are typically smaller spaces found in the front, back, or side of a home,” says designer Colleen Simonds, who operates an eponymous firm.
A lanai, however, is designed to function as an “outdoor room” and more of an “indoor/outdoor hybrid” space, she adds. Additionally, lanais are designed to be usable for a larger portion of the year due to the fact that they’re mostly enclosed.
“Lanais are your spring, summer, and early fall space,” notes Sarah Storms of Styled by Storms.
Why Add a Lanai to Your Home
If you enjoy spending time outdoors or simply crave more space to gather and unwind, adding a lanai to your home is an excellent option.
“A lanai offers the ultimate in true indoor/outdoor living in a very comfortable setting,” Simonds says. “You can expand the “livable’ square footage and suddenly have additional space for entertaining, relaxing, even working.”
Even if your home is fairly small, you may have room to expand and build a lanai that will make it easier to entertain guests.
How to Use a Lanai
Think of a lanai as an outdoor family room of sorts. What better way to unwind from a long work day than to step into your hybrid indoor-outdoor space and relax with a good book, meal, TV show, or all three?
“It’s the ultimate family hang out space,” Simonds says, explaining that oftentimes, a lanai will feature furniture typical of an indoor lounge space as well as a television. The lanai pictured above even includes a dining table perfect for entertaining, and colorful artwork graces the walls.
“There’s just something so luxurious about having a TV in an almost outdoor room,” Storms adds. “There’s nothing like it.”
I’ve always been curious about lanais and how to incorporate them into outdoor living spaces, and this article provided a wealth of valuable information! From understanding their origins to practical tips on furniture arrangement and décor, I now feel equipped to maximize the potential of my lanai for relaxation and entertainment. Thank you for the insightful guide
This article beautifully captures the essence of lanais and their versatility in outdoor design. I appreciated the emphasis on creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living, as well as the creative suggestions for furnishing and accessorizing a lanai. With these ideas in mind, I’m excited to transform my outdoor space into a tranquil oasis for enjoying nature and hosting gatherings.
This article serves as an informative guide to understanding and maximizing the potential of a lanai in one’s outdoor space. It offers valuable insights into the origins and characteristics of lanais, providing readers with a deeper understanding of this versatile feature. The practical tips and creative ideas shared in the article inspire readers to transform their lanais into inviting and functional outdoor living areas. From arranging furniture to incorporating greenery and lighting, the article offers actionable advice for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere on the lanai.
As someone unfamiliar with lanais, I found this article to be incredibly enlightening. It not only explains what a lanai is but also provides practical suggestions on how to make the most of this outdoor space. I appreciate the emphasis on versatility, as the article explores various ways to use a lanai for relaxation, dining, entertaining, and more. The inclusion of design tips and decor ideas adds depth to the article, offering readers inspiration for transforming their own lanais into personalized retreats. Overall, it’s a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor living experience.”
This article on lanais offers a comprehensive overview of how to utilize and beautify this outdoor space. From its origins in Hawaiian architecture to its modern-day applications, the article delves into the versatility of lanais and provides practical suggestions for incorporating them into one’s lifestyle. I particularly appreciate the emphasis on creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection and the tips for maximizing comfort and functionality. Whether used for lounging, dining, or socializing, the lanai becomes a valuable extension of the home’s living space. With its informative content and inspiring ideas, this article is a must-read for homeowners seeking to enhance their outdoor living experience.
Reading your article was a truly enriching experience. Thank you for sharing your expertise and insights with the world.