Preserving the charm of historic southern homes is a must, as is bringing them into the modern day. The cedar shake shingle exterior of this home is met with a medium-stained wood porch, classic white railing, and of course, a haint blue ceiling. A slightly deeper shade of blue dresses the front door, which is flanked my oversized outdoor lanterns. Design by Lindsey Cheek of Gathered.

Anyone who grew up in the south has memories of swinging the heat of the day away, and no southern porch is quite complete without a swing. Rather than the hard wood of yesteryear, today's swings have a long, upholstered seat cushion and ready-for-a-nap pillows. An intimate seating group means you won't miss out on a whisper of gossip. Design by Bridgett Mazer Interiors.

One quick and easy way to add charm to your front porch is through a painted door. Fuchsia, turquoise, mint, navy — the options are endless and the facelift is instant. This sweet house has a cheerful entry, complete with a quaint sitting area and coral front door.

Some homes just make you happy the moment you see them, and this Craftsman bungalow is the epitome of cheerful. Sweet gathering spots, a coral front door, hanging pots of flowers and even a little bar area make this front porch the ultimate hangout spot.

In areas where living flows easily between the indoors and out, retractable doors that open up your living room to the porch are a huge advantage. Using the same color palette of blue and white with accents of orange throughout both spaces ties them together so they work as one continuous space when the doors are open.

Another element to consider when designing your porch is whether to screen it in or not. If bugs are a problem during the months you'll be outside (and let's be real, most southern states joke that mosquitoes are actually their state bird), then screening in will let you truly enjoy being outdoors.

Another cue you've stumbled across a home in the south is a prominent monogram. People need to know you live here, after all. Greet guests at the door with a classic doormat, proclaiming your beloved initial. Design by Bridgett Mazer Interiors.

Though a haint blue ceiling may seem like a must-do for southern porches, the true necessity is a good fan. Look for chic, streamlined designs that will add to your comfort without taking away from your well-designed porch.

It's hard to beat a welcoming front porch, and this cozy spot has comfy wicker armchairs and a porch swing for gathering, reading or watching the day go by. Homes throughout older cities have historic markers for buildings that have a story to tell, and this one certainly does.

Block sun or create a little privacy by adding curtains to your porch. In Key West, Fla., this expansive porch is surrounded by lush, tropical plants. Lounge chairs and a cozy seating area with armchairs and swing provide the perfect spots to rest and stay out of the sun.

Charming doesn't have to mean classic. A contemporary porch with glass railing, steel beams and sleek, clean-lined furniture stands out from its historic counterparts with undeniable modern allure.

Though the heat of summer will have you running for air conditioning, most of the year and evenings are meant for dining outside. Cane-back chairs surround a streamlined wooden table, and a bench on one side means you can always squeeze in an extra guest. Design by Lindsey Cheek of Gathered.

Situated in Charleston, S.C., this elegant Old South home has a hidden gem once you walk around the wraparound porch — a petite backyard pool. Hanging lanterns illuminate the porch and walkway back, adding old-fashioned charm to the exterior.

This southern porch meets poolside retreat for a hangout that keeps everyone out of the sun. The expansive porch provides space to create designated lounging zones: hanging swing chair, cushy sofas and dining with an outdoor kitchen.