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The terms lanai, porch, patio and veranda are often used interchangeably, and it’s understandable why that is. Each term describes a type of outdoor space connected to or right next to a home. However, the main differences lie in their location, structure, roofing and intended use. A lanai is a covered outdoor living area. A porch is typically a covered entrance. A patio is a paved outdoor space, and a veranda is a roofed, open-air structure that extends along the exterior of a home.
Here’s a closer look at what makes lanais, porches, patios and verandas unique, and how to decide which one makes the most sense for your space.
If you’ve spent time in Hawaii, you’ve probably seen (and spent time on) a lanai or two. Unlike a simple front porch or a backyard patio, think of a lanai as an open-air living room. They are planned, designated rooms within a house, often used for entertaining, dining and lounging, especially in warm-weather areas.
While lanais can vary in size and design, they typically share a few defining features:
Think of it as another room in your home to enjoy, just with a little more fresh air, sunshine and connection to the outdoors.
Now that you know what constitutes a true lanai, let’s take a closer look at how it compares to the other three outdoor options: porches, patios and verandas.
Typically located at the front or side of a house, porches are small covered areas that serve as entrances to your home and offer protection from the elements. Like lanais, they are generally attached to a home and can also be used for relaxing and socializing. However, where a lanai is typically seen as another room of the home, porches are generally considered accessory or outdoor features.
What is the difference between a lanai and a patio? The key distinction is that a lanai has a permanent roof and is attached to the home, while a patio is typically an uncovered, paved outdoor area at ground level.
Patios are commonly constructed from concrete, brick, stone or pavers and may be located directly beside the house or elsewhere in the yard. They are popular spaces for grilling, outdoor dining and entertaining. But unlike a lanai, a patio doesn’t need to be structurally connected to the home. For coverage, people often add umbrellas or pergolas, although some patios also feature permanent roofs.
Often described as “wraparound porches,” verandas are typically located at the front of the house, extending along the sides or even fully around the perimeter. Lanais and verandas have permanent roofs, but that’s pretty much where their similarities end.
Where lanais are usually screened-in square or rectangular lounge rooms attached to the back of the home, a veranda is an open-air architectural feature that wraps around the exterior of the home.
Still not sure which outdoor space is which? Here’s a quick comparison of their defining features.
| Lanai vs. Porch vs. Patio vs. Veranda Chart | ||||
| Feature | Lanai | Porch | Patio | Veranda |
| Definition | Covered outdoor living area | Covered entrance or sitting area | Paved outdoor living area | Long, covered outdoor structure |
| Typical location | Back or side of home | Front or side of home | Backyard or beside home | Front and/or sides of home |
| Permanent roof | Yes | Usually | Optional | Yes |
| Attached to home | Yes | Usually | Not necessarily | Yes |
| Screened or enclosed | Often | Sometimes | Rarely | Sometimes |
Whether you’re working with a spacious, enclosed lanai or a charming, airy veranda, you’ve got an exciting opportunity to design and furnish an outdoor living space you’ll love to spend time in. Here are a few handy pointers for creating a place that invites you to kick back, relax and stay awhile.
What do you want this space to be used for? Think about your lifestyle, your current needs and your goals. Rather than furnishing it exactly like the gorgeous space you saw on Pinterest, let your personal lifestyle needs drive the room’s design.
If you know the space is destined to become your morning coffee and reading spot, you may want to prioritize comfy seating and a coffee or side table. If it will be a spot for outdoor dining, start browsing dining sets appropriately sized for the space. If this is going to become a late-night party hotspot, your shopping list may include plenty of seating and a chic bar cart. In short, figure out what you’ll use the space for, and proceed from there.
Not only should your furniture pieces be appropriately sized for the space you’re working with, but you’ll also want to ensure they can withstand any elements they’ll be exposed to. In a covered, screened-in lanai, you may be able to select larger living room-type pieces that aren’t necessarily outdoor-specific. In an uncovered patio or a porch in a more temperamental climate, the focus will likely be on more durable, weather-resistant patio furniture.
For spaces exposed to the elements, browse CORT Furniture Outlet’s patio furniture for outdoor-ready, affordable pieces designed to bring comfort and functionality to exterior spaces.
Treat these like outdoor rooms – true extensions of the house and home that you have lovingly and thoughtfully designed. Adding an area rug, comfortable seating and a few decorative accents from CORT Furniture Outlet can make your lanai (or porch, patio or veranda!) feel like a seamless extension of your home.
If you feel slightly intimidated by the idea of keeping outdoor furniture and decor clean, you’re not alone. Learn all about cleaning and maintaining your outdoor pieces here.
Whatever you call it, the best outdoor-adjacent space is one you’ll actually use. If your lanai, enclosed porch or protected veranda has become little more than a pass-through, think about what would make you linger—a comfortable place to sit, a table for morning coffee or a rug and a few accents that make the area feel connected to the rest of your home. CORT Furniture Outlet can help you create that extra living area without turning it into an extra-large expense.
Browse online or visit your local showroom to find furniture and décor that can help you get more from every corner of your home.
