Front Porch Refresh

April 2015

As the weather warms, we’re spending more time outside—and thus looking to revamp our home’s exteriors and signature porches. Designer Melissa Ervin provides this plan to up an abode’s curb appeal. “These Farrow & Ball paints feel crisp, and topiaries freshen the front door,” she says. “Plus, the settee and fabrics are very comfortable.” It all makes us want to spruce up, then sit back and enjoy the results

	Outdoor textiles (from left) by Restoration Hardware, Perennials, and Cowtan & Tout, prices vary, at Melissa Ervin Interior Design

Topiary, $225, in Campania’s “Smithsonian” collection goblet urn, $248, at Elizabeth Stuart Design

	“Sag Harbor” settee by Kingsley-Bate in driftwood, $1,124, at Morris Sokol Furniture

“Suffork” medium 3/4 lantern by E. F. Chapman in natural copper finish, $693, at Circa Lighting

	Millwork Artisans’ custom mahogany French doors, price upon request, at Southern Lumber & Millwork

Classic Brass door knocker in aged bronze, $156, at Bird Decorative Hardware & Bath

	Farrow & Ball exterior paint in “Stone Blue” and “Pointing,” from $97 per gallon, at Charleston Palette & Design

Melissa Ervin Who she is: The owner of Melissa Ervin Interior Design, a full-service design firm specializing in residential, hospitality, and commercial projects. Where you’ve seen her work: Southern Living, Coastal Living, and Charleston magazines On what inspired this look: “I just finished a few projects on Sullivan’s, so this evokes a coastal feel.” Find her at: www.melissaervinid.com