Perhaps you'd like to add curb appeal to your cottage or want a comfortable lounging or reading nook on your tiny porch. Simply cleaning and rearranging the stoop and any decorations you have can do plenty, but a fresh coat of paint and new accent pieces can completely transform it. Take your house's exterior colors into account when deciding on a color.
1
Remove all plants, decor, mats and furniture from your stoop. Clear it off completely.
2
Sweep your front stoop, steps and railing well. Remove any debris, dust and cobwebs.
3
Wash the entire area with a high-pressure hose or scrub brush, mild soap and water. Let the area dry completely.
4
Tape down any railings, house siding or brick or anything you don't want to get paint on that the stoop comes in contact with.
5
Apply a layer of primer, using a roller for the larger areas and a brush for edges and details. Let the coat dry completely before moving on.
6
Paint the stoop and porch with your exterior paint. Use a roller for larger areas and a brush for smaller details, as you did the primer. Let the paint dry completely.
7
Apply a second coat of paint, if need be. Let that coat dry.
8
Paint on a clear outdoor sealer. Let it dry completely before decorating the stoop.
9
Place a small potted plant on either side of each step, so long as there's ample room to walk in the center. Succulent plants work well, because they tend to be very small and compact. Use small herb plants like lavender, rosemary or mint for a touch of fragrance or an edible display.
10
Wrap white fairy lights through the step railings for a bit of glimmer at night. Weave the lights through a small container tree if you'd rather accent just one area of the stoop.
11
Paint the front door and mailbox, if it's located above your stoop. Use colors that accent the stoop's new hue of paint.
12
Place a welcome mat on your stoop that complements the stoop's color and style. Choose a mat with a message or an image on it like birds or flowers.
13
Display medium-size urns or planters with flowering plants on either side of your front door for symmetry, or cluster a medium and smaller plant in one corner. Set a tiny chair in one corner of the stoop, next to the door and out of the pathway, if you have room. Place an accent pillow for a comfortable reading nook. Place a tiny beverage table next to the chair if space allows.