This was a special project because we got to create a dream space for my parents! My dad is a total green thumb (he is where my love for plants comes from), and my mom loves to host the entire family, so they had an idea to enclose their back porch to gain extra living space, but needed a little help pulling it off. The idea was to create a space they’d both love to spend time in, so we were working toward a space that was half greenhouse, half entertaining sunroom. Of all the mini renovations this season, this one is definitely the biggest because it’s taking an outdoor space and making it indoor. The fun part was getting to work with my parents and getting their sign off on all the design plans, and the challenge was balancing an inspiring space for planting for my dad while also making sure there was enough living space for all the hosting my mom has in mind. For all of the materials, I chose colors and finishes that would blend seamlessly with the rest of the interior, and in the end I feel like this space really feels like it’s been here the whole time. Not an extension, but a completion of my parents’ home. Reveal day was one of my favorites—they loved every inch of this new shared space of theirs—and I hope it continues to leave them refreshed, restored, and inspired for years to come.
What We Updated
Frame + windows: We framed the back porch to enclose it, adding double doors, large picture windows, and a row of paneled transoms for maximum natural lighting.
Paint, trim + ceiling: We installed raised trim around the windows and tongue and groove on the ceiling for a greenhouse-inspired look—all painted with Quaint Cottage Trim, Door + Cabinetry Paint in Satin Finish. (From Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines crafted by KILZ.)
Lighting: Throughout the space, we installed large lantern-style light fixtures that were classic and timeless. (For a similar look, see our Isadora Pendant and matching wall sconce.)
Cabinetry: We replaced old posts and cabinetry with custom-made units that double as plant-potting bars. Each includes perforated metal shelving and is powder-coated the same paint color for a waterproof finish. We chose durable quartz countertops to get the look of marble without the cost and upkeep.
Flooring: New black-and-white tile in a classic checkered pattern was installed on the floor, then finished with a charcoal grout. We went with extra-large tiles to make a statement while staying within budget.
Fire pit: We replaced the original gas fire pit with an indoor-safe ethanol version. The brick helped anchor and tie the space together, so we just cleaned it up and topped it with white marble quartz to match the countertops.
We also added a working sink, new HVAC system, and electrical to transform the patio into a functional indoor space.
How We Styled It
On the far wall, we filled metal shelving with plants in a variety of planters + saucers, antique finds, and a vintage floral sketch from Magnolia Market. A large aluminum table adds function and structure to the patio, topped with a stack of Magnolia Est. Plates, striped napkins, and a large rattan vase filled with our White Magnolia Bloom Spray.
Jo wanted to imagine this space being used for hosting, so we included plenty of serveware—like our Elizabeth Bottle Cut Glass Tumblers and a matching pitcher.
A cozy seating area surrounds the fire pit, including the Cordelia Marble Side Table and Frannie Outdoor Chairs topped with our Vintage Floral Lumbar Pillow and Cream Striped Essential Tassel Throw.
On the opposite side of the space, there’s another little seating nook just right for morning coffee, created with our Mira Bistro Table topped with the Fanny Bergs Pot.
The Cunningham Plant Stand elevates more leafy green plants potted in antique brass planters.
The sink station features terracotta pots, our Greenhouse Candle, Ceramic Ruffle Tray, and garden tools—like a fork, rake, and pruners—from our collection.
Shop the Room
Shop a curation of pieces featured in and inspired by this enclosed patio space:
To see Jo bring her latest renovations to life, watch new episodes of Mini Reni every Wednesday at 8p/7c on Magnolia Network and Max.
MORE DESIGN SOURCES
FLOOR TILE: Portfolio, Matte White (PF02) + Charcoal (PF09), 24x24, Daltile | HARDWARE: Vernon Bin Pull, Vernon Mushroom Cabinet Knob + 18” Appliance Pull in Aged Brass, Rejuvenation | LANTERNS: Ralph Lauren Carrington Large Lantern in French Rust, Visual Comfort | FAUCET: Kraus Bolden 1.8 GPM Single Hole Pre-Rinse Pull Down Kitchen Faucet in Brushed Brass, Build.com | SINK: Kraus Standart PRO 32" Single Basin 16 Gauge Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink for Undermount Installation, Build.com | LONG TABLE + CHAIRS: Trousdale Cast Aluminum Rectangular Dining Table in Iron + Trousdale Cast Aluminum Dining Side Chair in Iron, RH | BISTRO CHAIRS: Granger Outdoor Dining Chair in Bombay Flax, Amber Lewis x Four Hands | STORAGE CABINET COUNTERTOPS: Everest Calacatta Quartz, DesignCo. | FIREPIT + SINK COUNTERTOPS: Stella Quartz, DesignCo.
Before and after photography by Jeff Jones
