Breezy New Orleans porches, verandas and galleries: Daily Design Inspiration

The weather is finally getting warm -- but not too warm -- and the nights are still cool -- but not too cool -- making it perfect porch weather. On Sunday, I dragged my laptop to my front porch, poured an iced tea and started compiling my tax return, proving that sunshine and fresh air can make any task less torturous.

The porch is an essential living space in that blissful period before the onslaught of air-conditioned hibernation and after the emergence from winter's heated cocoon.

The words porch, veranda and gallery are often used interchangeably. But there are slight differences.

M. Gerwing Architects, a design firm in Boulder, Colo., has a helpful guide on its website, explaining the nuances of porches, verandas, patios, terraces and balconies.

The difference between a veranda and porch -- veranda is a roofed porch, while a porch is "attached to the house, covered or open, can be enclosed" -- seems to be splitting hairs.

A gallery is similar to a balcony but is supported by posts or columns from the ground.

For a little visual inspiration, click through the slide show above for some beautiful porches (verandas, galleries) from our photo archive.

If you want to learn more about architectural terms, I've found the Trust for Architectural Easement's Glossary of Architectural Terms useful -- if only to show off to your friends or sound smart at your next cocktail party.

Follow this link:
Breezy New Orleans porches, verandas and galleries: Daily Design Inspiration