8 Patio Enclosures & Sunroom Ideas

A 2021 survey by the National Association of Home Builders found that more than 80% of home buyers want a patio or back porch and a front porch. Outdoor living spaces are in high demand as homeowners spend more time with family and friends at home.

And while a patio or porch is a great place to spend your time, what’s even better is a patio enclosure or sunroom addition, so you can enjoy the space even when there is Florida rain, heat, and humidity!

If you need help thinking of design ideas for your enclosed patio, you’ve come to the right place. Here are our eight favorite patio enclosures and sunroom ideas.

1. Three Seasons Room

Although several different sunrooms exist, three-season rooms are among the most popular. This is because they are inexpensive yet functional, making them the ideal extra space for many.

A three-season porch doesn’t connect to your home’s heating and cooling system. Instead, it often uses independent systems like space heaters or ceiling fans to regulate the temperature. And as the name suggests, there may be a season during the year when it’s too cold to use the room.

However, if you live in a climate that offers warm weather year-round, this is the best type of sunroom because it doesn’t take a lot of finances to build or maintain it.

2. Four Seasons Room

Four-season sunrooms are one of the more expensive sunroom designs. Yet, they offer the most versatility since you can use them year-round regardless of where you live. It’s like having a second living room.

In fact, you can use interior design ideas that you would use for other rooms of your home for a four-season room, since the room will always be at a comfortable temperature. There are no limits!

Unlike three-season rooms, four-season rooms can have independent heating and cooling systems. Thus, it’s essential to consider the room’s energy efficiency, or else you could see a spike in your utility bill.

In addition, a four-season room addition can add square footage to your home. This could drastically increase your home’s value. Other sunroom enclosure ideas typically don’t add to the home’s square footage, so the value-added isn’t as high.

3. Acrylic Room Enclosures

Acrylic enclosures use clear or tinted plastic panels to give you the aesthetic of a glass enclosure without the performance and energy efficiency of glass. So if you want a glass sun porch to enjoy crystal clear views of your landscaping or backyard decor but don’t want to splurge, choose acrylic instead.

High-quality acrylic is far more durable than vinyl, which is why we suggest it. Additionally, acrylic room enclosures offer more protection than traditional patio covers, so you can use the space more often.

4. Cathedral Sunrooms

Cathedral sunrooms are ideal for those who love the aesthetic of high-vaulted ceilings. Available in different heights, you can build the roof high enough to give it that “wow” factor but not so high that it looks awkward with the rest of your house.

Then, choose between a composite or shingled roof. You can even install floor-to-ceiling windows or skylights for a more dramatic effect.

There are also many unique decorating ideas for cathedral sunrooms. For example, you can add a lighting structure, such as a chandelier, to brighten the space at night and create a focal point for the room.

Also, try using white and light colors to make the room feel more expansive. Add finished flooring and plants to add a decorative element.

A sunroom as dramatic as a cathedral sunroom will surely draw attention from all your visiting guests!

5. Glass Room Enclosures

As one of the most popular options, glass enclosures are luxurious and pristine. They are the perfect way to soak in the views of your yard and enjoy the natural sunlight.

The assumption is that all the glass windows will cause the room to get too hot to enjoy, but glass room enclosures can offer insulated glass options with high-performance ratings for year-round use.

6. Screen Room Enclosures

Screened-in porch enclosures use see-through mesh to keep bugs out of your outdoor room. In addition, the design allows fresh air to stream through the room. Because they offer little protection from the weather, they are best for warmer climates.

Screen rooms are affordable but not always a practical solution if you decide on this option. Since it is open to the elements, it will allow dust, pollen, and debris to accumulate if not cleaned regularly. For screen room decor, you can use outdoor wicker furniture and weather-resistant decorations.

7. Pergolas

A pergola is a vertical structure typically attached to a patio, deck, or other foundation outside your home. Traditional pergolas give Florida homeowners a lightly shaded outdoor area to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors in comfort.

You choose from a traditional pergola or an operable pergola, which allows you to open and close the panels with a motor for ease and comfort.

8. Solarium

Solariums are like conservatories or garden rooms. They use polycarbonate or glazed glass for the roof and walls. Beams divide the ceiling and walls into sections. Solariums typically have a gable or single-slope roof to allow maximum sunshine inside.

They are perfect for those who love greenery and have many house plants. Your plants will thrive in this environment. Plus, with some furniture and decorating, the space will be the ultimate place to relax and recharge after a long day. Solariums, however, can trap in heat in warmer climates and limit usage. Solariums can also be a challenge to engineer and permit in high-velocity wind zones.

Get Started With Your Patio Enclosures Sunroom Ideas

Whether you need help with your sunroom design and installation or financing options, contact us at Lifestyle Remodeling.

Our team can handle your project from start to finish and provide a free design consultation with 3D renderings so you can visualize what your project will look like. Let’s get started with your project today so you can enjoy the outdoors year-round!