Explore iron furniture to mix and match with materials like wicker or stone for a curated look. Utilize thrifted planter pots to display plants affordably and uniquely. Upcycle items like wagons or frames into art or flower displays for a creative touch. Your porch is where your home’s personality shines, making it an ideal spot to infuse vintage charm.
Interior designers excel at using thrift store finds to enliven a porch. We’ve asked experts Claudia Martin, founder of Claudia Martin Design, and Hillary Littlejohn, founder of Hillary Littlejohn Studio Design, to share their go-to thrifted gems for clients.
Iron furniture, designed for longevity, adds timeless elegance to any space. Claudia Martin recommends seeking out iron pieces while thrifting for their durability and versatility. Mix iron furniture with materials like concrete, wicker, stone, aluminum, and resin to create an inviting and eclectic aesthetic.
Invest in quality furniture covers to protect your outdoor pieces from the elements. Secondhand covers can be a budget-friendly option that still serves the purpose. Thrifted garden benches can bring character and functionality to your porch, even on a limited space. Consider adding a birdbath for a thoughtful and curated touch that enhances your porch’s design.
A rare find that becomes more charming with a touch of age, consider opting for a gently weathered piece. Design experts suggest the appeal of a weathered birdbath with chipped edges and a coat of moss, sitting gracefully amidst the blossoms on your porch. Instead of rushing to a large retail store, follow the lead of designers and scout for a unique thrifted birdbath that not only adds beauty but also a sense of history to your outdoor space.
When it comes to purchasing planter pots online, the process can often be more trouble than it’s worth, with high shipping costs, risk of damage, and limited choices. That’s why designers often advise checking out secondhand planters at thrift stores. A well-curated collection of pots can bring unexpected beauty to your porch, but it’s essential to stick to a consistent color scheme. Consider storing various pot sizes in your garage or basement for easy seasonal updates. During the summer, showcase aromatic herbs like mint and thyme in a large thrifted pot. When fall arrives, opt for a smaller pot to highlight mums. And as spring approaches, gather multiple secondhand pots to display stunning bulbs like hyacinths or tulips.
When thrift shopping, broaden your perspective beyond the typical flower-related items. Thrift stores offer endless possibilities—simply look at items with a fresh eye. That rusty wagon could make the perfect planter for flowers, an old tire can transform into a unique wall planter, and even a rowboat has the potential to become a standout garden piece with a bit of creativity.
Let your thrifted treasures guide you in adding charm, quirk, and character to your porch, the welcoming introduction to your home.
