7 Lanai Porch & Patio Designs We Love

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Do you love fresh air, but aren’t necessarily fond of all that comes with it? Harsh weather, blistering sunlight, obnoxious bugs, and so on? There are ways to continue enjoying nature without sacrificing comfort, and a lanai porch or patio is one of our favorite approaches to use in bringing that luxury to our clients. 

What is a lanai?

Lanais originated in Hawaii during the 1800s and were born of a desire to fuse the beauty of the outdoors and comfort of being inside. These roofed, indoor-outdoor transitional areas share at least one wall with the house. At least one wall of a lanai porch is also open to the outside in some way. While similar to a screened-in porch, lanais are always connected to the exterior. Plus, lanais don’t exclusively use screens. From glass and screen enclosures to livable outside areas, lanais seamlessly blend aesthetics and functionality. Keep reading for some of our favorite ideas.

We offer comprehensive exterior design visualizations that include outdoor living areas like lanais and covered patios as well as exterior paint recommendations and help with particular home styles. Partner with us to achieve the curb appeal of your dreams. Learn more about our virtual exterior design services.
backyard pool and lanai porch enclosed with glass panels

#1 // Make the most of a larger space

The expansive glass panes in this design extend naturally from the wooden lanai porch ceiling, shielding the backyard pool from the elements. This glass enclosure offers protection and insulation, enabling year-round enjoyment of the pool and lounge areas. We added thoughtful elements like planters, comfortable seating, and stunning landscaping to provide homeowners and guests a tropical experience with the convenience of partial indoor comfort.

contemporary home with a lanai porch with glass panes to enclose the pool area

#2 // Partition the pool 

Many of our favorite lanai porch designs act as pool enclosures. In this rendering, the pool is demarcated by large glass panes. The structural integrity of the panes offer protection from harsh weather and infuses a contemporary appeal into the hardscape. Our designers complemented the transparent aesthetic with paned French doors to easily move from the lanai to the rest of the backyard oasis.

ranch home with a screened in lanai

#3 // Maximize comfort 

Next, we have the only lanai on this round-up without a pool nearby. Instead, this lanai porch acts as a separate living space that serves as a (literal) breath of fresh air by way of screens. With large ceiling fans, an outdoor kitchen, lounge seating, and a fireplace, this lanai harnesses cozy ambiance. 

large stucco home with a multi-level lanai

#4 // Open-air lanai

Lanai porch designs don’t always include a screen or glass barrier. This lanai covers multiple terrace levels and welcomes fresh, open air. The wood porch ceiling and plants connect with the home’s tropical setting.

white home with glass paneled lanai over the pool area

#5 // Emphasize function 

As you might have noticed by now, glass panels are a popular choice for lanai porch designs featuring pools. In the design above, the panels are sizable, allowing for mostly unobstructed outdoor views. Their dividers are white, as are the exterior windows of the home, making for a cohesive color palette. With multiple sliding doors connecting the inside and outside, this layout is all about indoor-outdoor flow. One of our favorite standout features are the windows linking the outdoor bar area with the interior dining room, making it easy to mix cocktails or smoothies indoors and pass them right out to guests enjoying the lanai.

ranch home with a screened lanai surrounding the pool

#6 // Safety first

The screens surrounding this lanai provide protection in more ways than one. For one, the pool is guarded from bugs and weather. Plus, the doors entering and exiting the lanai act as a safety barrier for children and animals. The lanai’s exterior doors also provide easy access to other highlights of the hardscape, including the firepit and outdoor dining table.

contemporary home with a lanai and backyard pool

#7 // Poolside room

Rather than enclosing the pool, this lanai porch serves as a nearby inside-meets-outside room. The space enhances the home’s edgy architecture with striking windows and bold trim.

white ranch with a pergola, pool, and lanai

Dreaming of your own lanai?

Lanai porch, patio, and room additions offer endless possibilities to achieve stunning indoor-outdoor spaces. Whether you want to incorporate a glass enclosure for year-round enjoyment or you’d prefer to take in the refreshing open air, lanais provide the perfect blend of comfort and nature. 

Experience the untapped possibilities of your home and enhance its curb appeal. At brick&batten, our designers meticulously consider materials, landscaping, and functional elements to create awe-inspiring havens that reflect our clients’ unique style and design aspirations. What are you waiting for? Begin your exterior design project with us today!

Author

brick&batten Contributor

Mackenzie has been writing for brick&batten for three years, and most of her exterior design knowledge comes from renovating her own home. She purchased a log home that was stuck in the '90s and the previous owners were unable to keep up with exterior maintenance. From reimagining the landscaping and hardscaping to revamping the porch and logs, Mackenzie and her family approached the entire project DIY-style. In her free time, Mackenzie enjoys cooking and spending time with her family of six on their farm, which includes cows, chickens, rabbits, dogs, and cats. She has been writing for 12 years and has explored a variety of materials from food writing to lifestyle pieces and, of course, virtual exterior design.