Adding a sunroom to your home is a good idea for more reasons than one. Aside from adding value to your home, a sunroom will increase your household's general exposure to sunlight which can help to boost mood and improve overall health, too. Plus, having a sunroom makes enjoying a warm and sunning afternoon during fall and winter much cozier. It’s a win-win.
Of course, you have to consider the cost of a sunroom if you are planning on adding one to your home and like lots of outbuildings, some can be expensive. The positive side is that when it comes to decorating your sunroom, there are so many ways to get a gorgeous look and max out your budget too.
Sunroom ideas that are totally worth it
It’s been proven that incorporating a sunroom can increase the value of your home (which is always a bonus). Whether you're adding a new one or sprucing up an existing building, there are lots of ways to create a stylish and cozy addition to your home using patio furniture, accessories and more for good looks and a ton of function too.
Keep scrolling to discover design and layout tips from professionals to help you get you off on the right foot when creating a bright sunroom for the whole family to enjoy.
1. Treat yourself to some new sunroom furniture
If your sunroom needs a complete overhaul rather than a quick update, some new sunroom furniture is a must. You could go for a sofa, but if your space is on the smaller side, we say stick to some stylish armchairs.
Our hearts are set on this Coastal Sunroom Design from Wayfair with stackable patio chairs that have been styled with cheery yellow cushions. If you ask us, it's a nice way to incorporate more seating in your sun-filled room without taking over the space.
2. Turn awkward nooks into functional spaces
How cozy is this little sunroom? It’s the purrr-fect spot to sit back, relax and watch the world go by.
However, if your sunroom is an awkward shape, a built-in alcove with shelves can be the best way to make the most of the space. Pop your shelves up, squeeze a chair (or two) in, just like this rattan offering from Target, add some cushions and you’re good to lounge. This would look awesome in a conservatory also.
3. Arrange chairs facing each other
Ah, we can feel the warmth of the sun on our face and the breeze of the cold fan just looking at this room. The sectional sofa works perfectly to increase the seating space while the warm color scheme only enhances the sunniness of the sunroom.
If you’re wondering how to make your sunroom a warm and welcoming retreat, take your cue from Red Bird Redesign and arrange your furniture so it's facing each other. Pick up some similar wicker egg chairs from Walmart to really make it a sunny statement-making space to entertain in.
4. DIY your sunroom space
If you don't have a sunroom, turn your front porch into one.
Sure you might not want to sit out in mid-winter but for warmer fall days it would be perfect. Copy this idea and hang curtains on your porch to create a cozier almost living room-like feel. Cover your outdoor sofa in plenty of cushions, invest in an outdoor rug and keep a basket of throws close by.
5. Make Sure the Room is Facing the Southeast
If you’re only in the planning stages of your sunroom, be sure to consider the placement of your new construction carefully so that yours will benefit from the most amount of sunlight. Keep yours southeast-facing to enjoy all the rays throughout the year.
Along with helping to make sure your sunroom stays sunny more often than not, it will also help you save on heating costs.
6. Have a Clear Purpose
What do you plan on using your sunroom for? Will it become a space to chill in? An area to work in? Or like in this Home Depot example, will it be a space for feasts?
If you’re designing your sunroom from scratch, the size and design of your sunroom will depend on its specific purpose. But you should consider the best use of the space early on so that you don't find yourself blending a home office and family space all in one. It will also help with lots of key decision-making for everything from sunroom flooring options to furniture placement and wall colors.
7. Don’t Forget About Privacy
Where is your sunroom located? If it’s in the front of the house where it’s facing the street, you’ll want to consider putting some curtains or blinds up for cover.
You could even use a folding room divider from Wayfair, to allow sunlight in, but block any wandering eyes from stopping you from enjoying your sun-filled spot.
8. Go for a Neutral Palette
Neutral tones are still having a bit of a moment. And we’re not opposed to it. It's no secret that neutrals are essential color palette additions if you want to create a clean and classic look. And according to James Kalim, Founder and CEO at Only Silent, you can enjoy the benefits neutral designs bring even in your sunroom too.
He says, 'Embracing all things neutral will help give your sunroom a quiet and relaxing feel’.
You can tick off this trend by painting the walls of your sunroom a neutral color, or by investing in neutral-colored furniture and furnishings.
9. Inject color
However, that's not to say bright and beautiful shades won't work in your sunroom. If you’re more of a fan of color – and lots of it – why not go OTT and make your sunroom walls the same color as your ceiling?
One person who knows how to incorporate color is expert Annie Sloan. Take tips from this design and give your sunroom a lick of paint in sunshine-ready shades, just like these walls which have been painted in buttery ochre Chalk Paint.
10. Go for cheerful colors
And, if you're already partial to bright colors, don't stop at the paint. Interior designer, Deborah Bettcher of Decorating Den Interiors, says 'Cheerful colors will invite you to step in and stay awhile,' she explains.
11. Go for tranquility
However, either way you decide to decorate your space, sunrooms are meant to be light and bright, exuding feelings of refreshment and tranquility. So keep this in mind as you design your sunny spot.
'A sunroom that does this welcomes people inside because they want to feel those emotions,' explains Andre Kazimierski, CEO, of on-demand home painting services, Improovy.
12. Stay away from dark furniture or decorations
'While you can certainly add color, stick to light colors' explains Kazimierski. 'If your sunroom has less natural light, paint your walls white and stick to colors close to white for decor in order to compensate for that.'
However, if you've chosen white paint before, you'll know there’s an endless selection of white paint colors to choose from. From warm white, a cool white, or neutral white – there's a lot to think about. So do your research before you put paint to wall.
13. Make sure to choose furniture that is durable
'Exposure to a lot of light can damage the fabric and cause it to fade or lose color,' explains Kazimierski.
Therefore, when you do choose patio furniture, be sure you choose options that are made to withstand hours of bright sun and heat. Traditional patio furniture – like this option from Wayfair – can be a great solution if you don’t want to risk investing in more expensive indoor pieces.
14. Create a reading space
Fan of a reading? Try turning your sunspot into a comfortable and creative place where you can curl up with a good book and relax.
If you're working with a small space, consider investing in furniture which keeps your floor free. Just like this swoon-worthy set-up from Wayfair which comes with all the beautiful bohemian vibes.
15. Add a water fixture
Another way to make your sunroom a space you'll want to spend all your time in? By adding some white noise to your room – such as the rippling of water thanks to a water feature.
John Kernohan, Chairperson & Founder at United Tiny House Association says, 'A water fixture inside or a fountain/pond outside but in view from the sunroom will definitely add to the ambiance and provide a soothing environment.'
16. Consider taking advantage of solar power
An added benefit of the sunlight coming into a sunroom is the use of solar lighting inside.
Solar-powered lighting scores you lots of green points with minimal effort required. Plus, you’re not restricted to finding a mains point to plug them into, meaning no unsightly trailing cables around your sunroom. All you need to find is the right style solar lights for your space and you can enjoy your sunroom even after sundown.
'Solar lights are typically less expensive than conventional lighting fixtures,' says Kernohan. 'Plus, there is no cost for monthly electrical use.'
17. Don't forget plants
Lots of natural light creates the perfect environment for plants and flowers. So why not adorn your sunroom with a range of indoor plants?
'Plants cool the air, offer privacy, provide a calming environment, and can even offer edible fruits and veggies,' shares Kernohan.
This palm tree grows just as well in direct sunlight as it does in more shady spots.
18. Blur the inside out
Bettcher of Decorating Den Interiors says one of the best things about sunrooms is the fact you can surround yourself with nature.
One way to do this inside is to blur the lines between the two. Bettcher explains, ‘In our own home, the sunroom is the first place that we are drawn to when we want a relaxing place to read or chat. In all seasons, we love to gaze out at the world around us to see a fawn ambling around or spot the latest flower to bloom in the garden.
‘Fabrics with botanical patterns are au natural. I love using wallpaper with naturalistic motifs to blur the distinction between outside and inside.’
19. Control the light
While it’s all well and good enjoying your sunroom for its primary function, it’s always important to consider how you will guard against too much light from reaching your room.
And when it comes to window treatments, Bettcher has the right idea. She says, ‘I prefer window treatments that diffuse the light, such as sheer drapery or shadings. Be sure to consider natural woven shades, as well, which have the added benefit of offering texture.'
20. Add a rug
A well-chosen rug is an effective option for any room. But when it comes to sunrooms they can serve a dual purpose. As Bettcher says, ‘These spaces often serve as a transition between a deck, patio or pool and the rest of the home. So using performance upholstery fabrics – like an indoor or outdoor rug – it makes it a worry-free solution to protecting your space where guests may be bringing drinks or snacks indoors.’
Discover our guide on how to choose a rug to find out more.
21. Think vertically
We can't all be blessed with acres of floor space when it comes to our sunrooms. Instead of placing plants on the floor, why not consider hanging them instead?
Vertical gardens are an amazing way to beautify walls and ceilings in small spaces. Essentially, vertical gardening is growing along and up vertical surfaces in and around your outdoor or inside space.
So go wild and decorate your sunroom with hanging ivy, florals and trailing foliage.
22. Use it as an office
Make your sunroom a space where you can work and play by turning it into a home office.
Working from home is now an essential part of most of our lives. So why not make your WFH spot a place where you can soak up some rays and tick off your to-do list?
We love this colorful setup from Target with the inclusion of a comfy chair that's ideal to work and while away the time in.
23. Go minimal
This modern take on a sunroom will make you want to banish clutter once and for all. If your idea of heaven is all clean lines, huge windows, and little-to-no clutter then this minimalist idea for a sunroom is for you.
Choose a swivel chair (so you can make the most of the sun at every angle), add a standing lamp, pick up a good book and prepare to get lost in a sunny-state-of-mind for an hour or more.
24. Inject character with a bookshelf
Talking of books – why not turn your sunspace into a reading haven by adding a bookshelf to your setup?
Whether it's a thriller or romantic novel, the best bookshelves and wall shelves are ideal for adding character and extra color into any room. If you're feeling really creative, you could try making your own DIY bookshelf.
25. Turn it into an urban jungle
There's no such thing as too many plants... Turn your sunroom into a tropical haven with climbing plants, potted options and hanging wreaths.
You could also take this idea one step further and deck your table with a tropical-print tablecloth. Remember: more is more!
Should I install a sunroom?
For the best experience if you're buying a sunroom rather than choosing the DIY route, look for a company with a great reputation and many years of experience in designing sunrooms. Check their portfolio to see whether their design ideas will fit with your home. Wherever possible, meet with them in person to see first-hand the quality of their work before committing to anything.
Consider your budget of course, though we would recommend putting quality first so that your sunroom will last longer and better hold its value. After all, you need to ensure your sunroom will be worth it financially and from a lifestyle perspective also. So be sure to weigh up the total estimated costs of your project to see what's worth your investment.