Lanai Ideas: What Are They & How To Use Them

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White built-in outdoor sofa upholstered with a gray and white cushion facing a gray granite fire pit in an outdoor patio design. A covered patio features black built-ins with white quartz countertop for a modern appeal.

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Are you looking for ways to spruce up your outdoor space? Look no further than a lanai. A Lanai, a term commonly used in Hawaii, is essentially a covered outdoor patio or porch. It’s a space that can be utilized year-round with the right design elements. With endless possibilities, a lanai can range from a simple seating area to a full-blown outdoor kitchen.

Lanais can be made up of various materials such as wood, concrete, or stone and can be customized to fit any home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy outdoor retreat or an entertainment space for guests, a lanai can help you achieve your desired space. In this article, we’ll explore some lanai ideas that will inspire you to create the outdoor space of your dreams. From comfortable seating arrangements to decorative lighting, we’ll cover it all. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be inspired by these creative lanai decorating ideas.

White built-in outdoor sofa upholstered with a gray and white cushion facing a gray granite fire pit in an outdoor patio design. A covered patio features black built-ins with white quartz countertop for a modern appeal.
Gorgeous covered patio features custom firewood cubbies fixed beside a gray stone fireplace mantel fixed beneath a wall mount TV. Gray wicker lounge chairs sit at on each side of the fireplace.
Outdoor patio design displaying glass and metal folding doors opening up to a travertine floor patio with blue seating and accents.
Gorgeous brown and blue covered patio features a brown wicker chairs topped with blue cushions and flanked by white accent tables. The sofa is positioned facing a white lacquer coffee table located between brown chairs. The space is finished with two blue upholstered stools.
A folding kitchen pass-through windows open to a patio bar seating four black Tolix stools.
Ceiling fans fixed to a stained wood plank enclosed patio ceiling are mounted over a teak dining table surrounded by teak dining chairs placed on a teak wood floor.
Covered patio features white laser cut outdoor dining chairs at a teak outdoor dining table atop a gray lattice outdoor rug, an outdoor kitchen, a gray wood and rope outdoor sofa with a concrete coffee table, forest armchairs and blue woven stools under a ceiling fan.
Black Tolix stools sit in a row at a black outdoor bar located beneath a covered patio.
Golden teak chairs are placed on a patio on concrete pavers in front of sliding glass pocket doors that open to a beautifully designed kitchen.
A modern covered patio boasts a polished concrete floor fixed beneath gray and fuchsia dining chairs placed surrounding a gray reeded dining table under a brown plank ceiling. Black low back stools are placed at a white outdoor kitchen island contrasted with a black countertop.
Covered patio features a gray outdoor swivel chair with round black outdoor coffee table, a gray and white outdoor sofa, a gray woven outdoor chair and ceiling heaters on ceiling planks over an gray outdoor dining table with gray rope outdoor dining chairs.
A gray wicker sofa accented with gray pillows sits on a wonderfully appointed covered patio facing a round black coffee table flanked by gray wicker lounge chairs. A flat panel tv is mounted to a gray stone fireplace located next to custom fire wood cubbies.
Spacious covered patio features a white brick outdoor kitchen with custom pizza oven.
Hung from a wood plank patio ceiling, a large oil rubbed bronze chandelier illumates a black rope swing sofa hung facing a gray teak coffee table and beige teak accent chairs. A gray industrial fireplace is finished with a flat panel TV.
U-shaped black and white patio outdoor bar design features hanging chairs.
Covered patio with ceiling heaters on ceiling planks features an gray outdoor dining table with gray rope outdoor dining chairs and a sitting area with fireplace.

What is a Lanai?

A lanai is a beautiful outdoor space that is commonly found in tropical regions. It is typically a covered patio or porch that is surrounded by screens, allowing for a comfortable and breezy atmosphere. The word “lanai” originates from the Hawaiian language, and it has become a popular feature in homes throughout the world.

Covered patio with ceiling heaters on ceiling planks features an gray outdoor dining table with gray rope outdoor dining chairs and a sitting area with fireplace.

Photo Credit: Martha O Hara Interiors – Covered patio with ceiling heaters on ceiling planks features an gray outdoor dining table with gray rope outdoor dining chairs and a sitting area with fireplace.

One of the most notable characteristics of a lanai is its seamless connection to the outdoors. The screens allow for an unobstructed view of the surrounding landscape while also protecting the area from bugs and other pests. The roof provides ample shade, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the fresh air without being exposed to direct sunlight.

U-shaped black and white patio outdoor bar design features hanging chairs.

Photo Credit: The Lifestyled Co – U-shaped black and white patio outdoor bar design features hanging chairs.

The design of a lanai can vary greatly depending on the specific home or property. Some may be small and intimate, while others can be quite spacious and offer plenty of room for entertaining guests. Many lanais are outfitted with comfortable furniture, such as sofas and chairs, as well as tables for dining or playing games.

Hung from a wood plank patio ceiling, a large oil rubbed bronze chandelier illumates a black rope swing sofa hung facing a gray teak coffee table and beige teak accent chairs. A gray industrial fireplace is finished with a flat panel TV.

Photo Credit: The Lifestyled Co – Hung from a wood plank patio ceiling, a large oil rubbed bronze chandelier illuminates a black rope swing sofa hung facing a gray teak coffee table and beige teak accent chairs. A gray industrial fireplace is finished with a flat panel TV.

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of a lanai is the sense of tranquility that it provides. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning, reading a book in the afternoon, or sipping a cocktail in the evening, a lanai is the perfect place to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Spacious covered patio features a white brick outdoor kitchen with custom pizza oven.

Photo Credit: Geoff Chick – Spacious covered patio features a white brick outdoor kitchen with custom pizza oven.

What to Put in a Lanai

When decorating your lanai, several key elements can help create a serene and inviting atmosphere.

First and foremost, comfortable seating is a must. Whether you prefer a plush sofa or a cozy set of chairs, ensure that your seating allows you to sit back and relax. Outdoor fabrics are a great choice for lanai furniture, as they are durable and can withstand the elements.

A gray wicker sofa accented with gray pillows sits on a wonderfully appointed covered patio facing a round black coffee table flanked by gray wicker lounge chairs. A flat panel tv is mounted to a gray stone fireplace located next to custom fire wood cubbies.

Photo Credit: Brad Ramsey Interiors – A gray wicker sofa accented with gray pillows sits on a wonderfully appointed covered patio facing a round black coffee table flanked by gray wicker lounge chairs. A flat panel tv is mounted to a gray stone fireplace located next to custom fire wood cubbies.

Adding some greenery to your lanai can also create a calming and peaceful environment. Potted plants, hanging baskets, and even a small herb garden can help bring some life to your lanai. Make sure to choose plants that thrive in your climate and that can tolerate the amount of sunlight your lanai receives.

Covered patio features a gray outdoor swivel chair with round black outdoor coffee table, a gray and white outdoor sofa, a gray woven outdoor chair and ceiling heaters on ceiling planks over an gray outdoor dining table with gray rope outdoor dining chairs.

Photo Credit: Martha O Hara Interiors – Covered patio features a gray outdoor swivel chair with round black outdoor coffee table, a gray and white outdoor sofa, a gray woven outdoor chair and ceiling heaters on ceiling planks over an gray outdoor dining table with gray rope outdoor dining chairs.

Lighting is another important factor to consider when designing your lanai. Soft, ambient lighting can help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. String lights, lanterns, and candles are all great options for adding a warm glow to your lanai.

Finally, consider incorporating some decorative elements to add personality and style to your space. Outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and artwork can all help make your lanai feel like an extension of your indoor living space.

Lanai vs Patio

When it comes to outdoor living spaces, there are many options to choose from. Two popular choices are lanais and patios. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two.

A lanai is a covered outdoor space that is typically found in tropical or subtropical regions. It is often enclosed with screens to protect against insects and other pests. Lanais can be attached to the house or freestanding, and they can be designed to be used year-round. They are often used for dining, entertaining, and relaxing, and they may feature amenities such as ceiling fans, lighting, and outdoor kitchens.

A modern covered patio boasts a polished concrete floor fixed beneath gray and fuchsia dining chairs placed surrounding a gray reeded dining table under a brown plank ceiling. Black low back stools are placed at a white outdoor kitchen island contrasted with a black countertop.

Photo Credit: Martha O Hara Interiors – A modern covered patio boasts a polished concrete floor fixed beneath gray and fuchsia dining chairs placed surrounding a gray reeded dining table under a brown plank ceiling. Black low back stools are placed at a white outdoor kitchen island contrasted with a black countertop.

On the other hand, a patio is an outdoor space that is typically made of concrete or stone and is located adjacent to the house. Patios can be covered or uncovered, but they are typically not enclosed with screens. They are often used for dining, entertaining, and relaxing, and they may feature amenities such as outdoor furniture, fire pits, and planters.

Golden teak chairs are placed on a patio on concrete pavers in front of sliding glass pocket doors that open to a beautifully designed kitchen.

One of the biggest differences between a lanai and a patio is that a lanai is typically enclosed with screens, while a patio is not. This means that lanais offer more protection against insects and other pests, as well as the elements. Lanais can also be used year-round, while patios may be limited to use during temperate weather.

Black Tolix stools sit in a row at a black outdoor bar located beneath a covered patio.

Photo Credit: Amy Storm and Co – Black Tolix stools sit in a row at a black outdoor bar located beneath a covered patio.

Another difference between the two is the materials used to construct them. Lanais are often made of wood or aluminum, while patios are typically made of concrete or stone. This means that lanais can be more customizable in terms of design, while patios are more limited in terms of shape and size.

Covered patio features white laser cut outdoor dining chairs at a teak outdoor dining table atop a gray lattice outdoor rug, an outdoor kitchen, a gray wood and rope outdoor sofa with a concrete coffee table, forest armchairs and blue woven stools under a ceiling fan.

Photo Credit: Laura U Interior – Covered patio features white laser cut outdoor dining chairs at a teak outdoor dining table atop a gray lattice outdoor rug, an outdoor kitchen, a gray wood and rope outdoor sofa with a concrete coffee table, forest armchairs and blue woven stools under a ceiling fan.

Ultimately, the choice between a lanai and a patio comes down to personal preference and the climate in which you live. If you live in a tropical or subtropical region and want a year-round outdoor living space that offers protection against insects and other pests, a lanai may be the better choice. If you live in a temperate climate and want a more traditional outdoor living space that is open to the elements, a patio may be the way to go.

Ceiling fans fixed to a stained wood plank enclosed patio ceiling are mounted over a teak dining table surrounded by teak dining chairs placed on a teak wood floor.

Photo Credit: Geoff Chick – Ceiling fans fixed to a stained wood plank enclosed patio ceiling are mounted over a teak dining table surrounded by teak dining chairs placed on a teak wood floor.

Materials and Construction

When it comes to building a lanai, there are a variety of materials that people use to create a structure that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

One common material used for building a lanai is wood. Cedar, redwood, and teak are all popular choices due to their durability and resistance to moisture. These woods are also known for their natural beauty and can be stained or painted to match the style of the home. Some people may choose to use pressure-treated lumber for its affordability, but it is important to note that this material may not last as long as other options.

A folding kitchen pass-through windows open to a patio bar seating four black Tolix stools.

Photo Credit: Raili Ca Design – A folding kitchen pass-through windows open to a patio bar seating four black Tolix stools.

Another material that is commonly used for building a lanai is aluminum. This material is lightweight, durable, and requires little maintenance. Aluminum is also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a good choice for homes located near saltwater. Additionally, aluminum can be powder-coated in a variety of colors to match the style of the home.

Gorgeous brown and blue covered patio features a brown wicker chairs topped with blue cushions and flanked by white accent tables. The sofa is positioned facing a white lacquer coffee table located between brown chairs. The space is finished with two blue upholstered stools.

Photo Credit: Paige Pierce Design – Gorgeous brown and blue covered patio features a brown wicker chairs topped with blue cushions and flanked by white accent tables. The sofa is positioned facing a white lacquer coffee table located between brown chairs. The space is finished with two blue upholstered stools.

Aside from wood and aluminum, some people may choose to use vinyl or composite materials for their lanai. Vinyl is a low-maintenance option that is resistant to fading and cracking. Composite materials are made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, creating a material that is both durable and environmentally friendly.

Outdoor patio design displaying glass and metal folding doors opening up to a travertine floor patio with blue seating and accents.

Photo Credit: Bob Thompson Homes – Outdoor patio design displaying glass and metal folding doors opening up to a travertine floor patio with blue seating and accents.

When it comes to roofing materials for a lanai, people may choose to use shingles, metal panels, or polycarbonate panels. Shingles are a popular choice for their durability and aesthetic appeal, while metal panels are known for their low-maintenance requirements. Polycarbonate panels are a lightweight option that allows natural light to filter through.

Gorgeous covered patio features custom firewood cubbies fixed beside a gray stone fireplace mantel fixed beneath a wall mount TV. Gray wicker lounge chairs sit at on each side of the fireplace.

Photo Credit: Brad Ramsey Interiors – Gorgeous covered patio features custom firewood cubbies fixed beside a gray stone fireplace mantel fixed beneath a wall mount TV. Gray wicker lounge chairs sit at on each side of the fireplace.

There are a variety of materials that people use to build a lanai. The specific materials chosen will depend on factors such as durability, style, and budget. Whether using wood, aluminum, vinyl, or composite materials, a well-built lanai can provide a beautiful and functional outdoor space for years to come.

White built-in outdoor sofa upholstered with a gray and white cushion facing a gray granite fire pit in an outdoor patio design. A covered patio features black built-ins with white quartz countertop for a modern appeal.

Photo Credit: Gonterman Construction – White built-in outdoor sofa upholstered with a gray and white cushion facing a gray granite fire pit in an outdoor patio design. A covered patio features black built-ins with white quartz countertop for a modern appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a lanai, and why is it important to decorate it?

A lanai is a covered outdoor living area, typically found in tropical climates. It’s important to decorate your lanai because it’s an extension of your home and can be a great space for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying the outdoors.

What are some popular lanai decorating styles?

Some popular lanai decorating styles include tropical, coastal, bohemian, and modern. It’s important to choose a style that reflects your personal taste and complements the architecture of your home.

What are some essential pieces of furniture for a lanai?

Some essential pieces of furniture for a lanai include comfortable seating, a dining table and chairs, and possibly a chaise lounge or daybed for lounging. Outdoor rugs, pillows, and lighting can also add a cozy touch.

What materials are best for lanai furniture?

When choosing furniture for your lanai, it’s important to choose materials that can withstand the elements. Wicker, metal, and teak are all durable options. Look for pieces with weather-resistant cushions or invest in outdoor covers to protect your furniture.

How can I add privacy to my lanai?

If you live in a densely populated area or simply want more privacy on your lanai, there are several ways to achieve this. You can add curtains or shades to your lanai, hang plants or a trellis for natural screening, or install outdoor privacy screens.

What are some creative ways to add color to my lanai?

Adding color to your lanai can be as simple as adding colorful throw pillows or a vibrant outdoor rug. You can also incorporate colorful plants, artwork, or decorative accessories like lanterns or vases.

How can I make my lanai feel like an extension of my home?

To make your lanai feel like an extension of your home, choose decor that complements the interior of your home. Consider incorporating a similar color palette or repeating design elements like patterns or textures. You can also add personal touches like family photos or artwork to make the space feel more personalized.

You’re reading Lanai Ideas: What Are They & How To Use Them, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.



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