Sunrooms are a beautiful and bright addition to any home. These glass-enclosed rooms, also known as solariums, garden rooms, or sun parlors, are typically built off the side or back of a home and are accessible from the inside. Depending on design and insulation, sunrooms can be enjoyed year-round or as three-season spaces in colder climates.
A sunroom is primarily made of glass, which floods the space with natural light and scenic views. However, you’ll need to decorate carefully to create a beautiful space that can withstand the sun. Get expert tips in our guide.
Design Elements of a Sunroom
From flooring to furniture, there are various aspects to consider when designing a functional, attractive sunroom.
Best Sunroom Flooring
Traditional flooring like hardwood and carpet are prone to fading, especially when exposed to a lot of sun. Instead, consider some of these more durable options:
- Ceramic tile: Ceramic tile is moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and available in various styles.
- Concrete: Modern and versatile, concrete can be stained or stamped for a custom look.
- Stone: Natural and elegant, stone flooring is highly durable and resistant to fading.
For a warmer feel, consider adding area rugs that can be easily cleaned or replaced as needed.
Best Sunroom Furniture
Similarly, you’ll want to choose furniture that can handle exposure to sunlight and varying temperatures. Avoid solid wood, leather, and metal pieces without proper coating. Here are some great alternatives:
- Upholstered pieces: If using upholstered furniture, opt for durable, fade-resistant fabrics to withstand sun exposure.
- Wicker: Lightweight and durable, wicker furniture adds a classic, outdoor-inspired touch.
- Wrought iron: Iron is timeless, sturdy, and weather-resistant.
Best Sunroom Window Coverings
Though sunrooms are designed to let in an abundance of natural light, there may be times when you need to control light levels or increase privacy. Consider these window covering options:
- Cellular shades: These energy-efficient options help insulate the room while filtering light.
- Curtains: Choose light, airy fabrics that filter sunlight without completely blocking it.
- Roller shades: Easy to operate and available in various opacities, roller shades offer versatile light control.
For optimal energy efficiency, consider insulated cellular shades. Unlike regular cellular shades, these typically have a thicker, more robust cell structure with multiple layers of fabric or additional insulating materials. They can help reduce heat loss through windows in winter and minimize solar heat gain in summer, potentially lowering your energy costs.
If you’re working with existing windows, applying UV-blocking window film is another effective option. The see-through barrier can block as much as 95% of UV rays and 85% of solar heat.
Best Sunroom Wall Treatments
When choosing paint or wallpaper, look for UV- or fade-resistant options designed for high-light environments. You can also consider textured wall treatments to add depth and interest.
Be mindful of temperature and humidity levels in the sunroom when applying your wall treatment. Extreme temperatures can affect adhesion and curing times, so choose a moderate day for installation.
Ceiling Treatments
An interesting ceiling treatment can add depth and character to your sunroom. Consider the following options:
- Beamed ceilings: Bring rustic charm and visual interest
- Coffered ceilings: Add a sense of sophistication and elegance
- Vaulted ceilings: Create a sense of spaciousness and allow more natural light
These ceiling treatments can also help with acoustics and insulation. For added charm, consider painting the ceiling a soft, contrasting color or incorporating skylights to maximize natural light exposure.
Heating and Cooling
To make your sunroom comfortable year-round, consider incorporating a fireplace or radiant heating system for the cooler months or a ceiling fan for hot days. You can also install a ductless mini-split system, which offers efficient heating and cooling without extensive ductwork.
Plants
Adding plants to your sunroom is a great way to bring the outdoors inside. Here are some options that thrive in high sunlight:
- Bird of paradise: Has a tropical flair with its large, paddle-shaped leaves
- Fiddle-leaf fig: Dramatic, large leaves that thrive in bright, indirect light
- Jade plant: Low-maintenance succulent that adds a sculptural element to the space
- Lemon tree: Adds a Mediterranean touch and produce fragrant blooms
Remember to choose plants that match your sunroom’s light levels and temperature fluctuations.
8 Sunroom Decorating Ideas
When decorating your sunroom, focus on highlighting its strengths while creating a space that meets your needs. If you have a stunning outdoor view, choose low-profile furniture to keep the focus on the windows. On the other hand, you can arrange furniture to complement a fireplace or other architectural feature.
Whether you want to use your sunroom as a reading nook, dining area, or entertainment zone, here are some design ideas to help inspire your creativity.
Small Sunroom Ideas
Even a small sunroom can have a big impact with thoughtful design. This sunroom was formerly a screened-in porch, but the homeowners converted it to add square footage to the house after having a second baby.
Here are some ideas for maximizing a compact space:
- Choose multifunctional, small-scale furniture that can be easily rearranged.
- Incorporate built-in seating along walls to maximize seating without cluttering the floor space.
- Install tongue-and-groove boards on walls or ceilings to add texture and visual interest.
- Use light-filtering window treatments to control light and privacy without sacrificing brightness.
Emphasize vertical space by using tall shelving units or hanging planters, drawing the eye upward and making the room feel larger. Mirrors can also amplify light and give the illusion of additional space in a small sunroom.
Sunroom Reading Nook
Transform your sunroom into a cozy reading retreat with these ideas:
- Add plush cushions, throw pillows, and blankets to create a comfortable reading spot.
- Choose energy-efficient windows to maintain a comfortable temperature year-round.
- Consider adding a small side table to hold books, reading glasses, and a cup of tea or coffee.
- Go for a color palette of calming, neutral tones to foster an inviting reading environment.
- Incorporate task lighting, such as wall-mounted sconces, for evening reading sessions.
- Install built-in bookcases that double as window seats for a space-efficient design.
Garden-Inspired Sunroom
Bring the outdoors in with a garden-inspired sunroom design. Use durable, natural materials such as blue slate tile for flooring and choose garden-style furniture, such as wrought iron or weathered wood pieces. Further channel the garden theme with floral patterns in textiles and decor, such as throw pillows or curtain fabrics.
Incorporate a variety of plants, from ferns and palms to succulents, to create a lush environment. Clay pots and decorative planters can add a charming, rustic touch. You can even add a small water feature or fountain to create a soothing atmosphere.
Home Office Sunroom
Transform your sunroom into a productive workspace with these tips:
- Add a plush area rug to define the workspace and add warmth to the room.
- Incorporate storage solutions to keep it organized and clutter-free.
- Install adjustable window treatments to control glare on computer screens throughout the day.
- Select furniture that blends with the space, such as a glass or white desk, to maintain an open feel.
- Stay comfortable during long working hours with ergonomic office chairs and desks.
Adding personal touches, such as motivational artwork or a small indoor plant, can make the workspace more inviting and inspire productivity.
Sunroom-Turned-Dining Room
You can create an inviting dining space in a sunroom that’s close to the kitchen or an outdoor grill. Choose easy-to-clean dining chairs, such as those with slipcovers or leather upholstery, and a large dining table with extension leaves to accommodate different-sized gatherings. Remember to look for sun-resistant fabrics.
Incorporate natural elements such as stone and wood in your decor to complement the outdoor views, and consider adding a fireplace for cozy winter dinners and a ceiling fan for comfortable summer meals. A combination of pendant and wall lighting can create an intimate dining ambiance, making the space suitable for both casual and formal meals.
Game Sunroom
Design a sunroom that’s perfect for game nights and family fun. Center the room around a round table, ideal for board games and card games. Include built-in benches under windows for additional seating and storage, or incorporate built-in cabinets or decorative bins.
Opt for durable, easy-to-clean materials for flooring and furniture to keep the room fresh even with frequent activity. Incorporating vibrant, playful colors can energize the space and make it appealing for all ages. You can also add a statement ceiling fixture, like a modern chandelier, to enhance the room’s ambiance.
Sunrooms for Conversations
Create a sunroom that encourages lively discussions and social gatherings. Offer varied seating options, such as deep sofas and upright chairs, to accommodate different preferences. Use a bold flooring choice, like black and white tile, to make a design statement.
Add side tables and a coffee table for a drink and snack surface. Consider adding a bar cart or mini-fridge to keep beverages handy. Incorporate warm accents, such as leather or rattan furniture, to balance a cool color scheme, and consider soft, ambient lighting with dimmable options for a relaxing environment.
Traditional Sunroom
This greenhouse-inspired sunroom makes a grand statement with its soaring glass ceilings and traditional millwork that makes it feel like an escape from the modern world. Follow these tips to design a classic sunroom with timeless appeal:
- Incorporate traditional millwork, moldings, and columns to add architectural interest.
- Mix furniture styles, combining wicker, stone, and upholstered pieces for a layered look.
- Choose a statement lighting fixture, such as a lantern-style chandelier, to enhance the traditional feel.
- If possible, include a glass-panel ceiling or skylights to maximize natural light.
Add classic patterns and textures such as floral upholstery or damask wallpaper to anchor the traditional design. Complementing these with vintage accessories and elegant draperies will give the room a cohesive, polished feel.
