This post is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Schlage. All opinions and text are my own.
I’ve shared a few glimpses of my back porch before, but today I’m posting the full progress report for the 12 rooms in 12 months series in partnership with Schlage. I’m excited to spend more time on the back porch as the weather cools, and I couldn’t wait to share the updates we’ve completed so far. Click through for the before and after photos of our back porch makeover.
Before we get started, here’s the only before photo I could find of the space.
It was a pretty blank canvas. When we moved in, I was excited to have a covered back porch we could use year-round for entertaining. The space isn’t huge, but it’s the right size for a large table and a few essential pieces.
I’m still considering a couple of additions, like outdoor curtains. Our neighbors have started a big construction project behind us, and it’s a noticeable eyesore. Curtains could help block that view and add privacy when we entertain. Have you used outdoor curtains on your porch? Do you like them or find them annoying?
Beyond styling the space, I wanted to partner with Schlage for the back porch reveal because Jeff and I wanted custom door hardware for our back entrance. That door gets a lot of use—it’s where we park and where we come and go most days—so we needed a lock that fit our routine.
We wanted something modern and convenient, not a standard lock we’d have to fumble with when our hands are full. We chose the Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt with Century trim and the Century Front Entry Handle paired with the Latitude Lever for a cohesive look and smart functionality.
Like our previous hardware update in the master bedroom makeover, Jeff and I swapped out the old hardware and installed the new Schlage lock and lever ourselves. The instructions were clear and straightforward.
The back door installation was a bit more involved than the bedroom hardware, but it still took under 20 minutes from start to finish, which surprised me. If you’ve been hesitant to tackle door hardware replacement, I recommend trying it—every Schlage install we’ve done has been very manageable for a DIYer.
We also added the Schlage Sense™ Wi‑Fi Adapter and installed the Schlage Sense app so we can lock and unlock the back door from our phones. The system works with iPhone, Android smartphones, iPad, and iPod touch. It’s been extremely convenient—we can check the lock when we’re away, let someone in remotely, or open the door from the driveway when our hands are full.
Jeff is in charge of the home’s tech upgrades (his official title), so we also added a Nest security camera on the back of the house—similar to the one we put on the front porch—and we’re exploring outdoor speaker options for music and podcasts. Those additions make the porch more functional and enjoyable.
Source list: Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt with Century trim // Century Front Entry Handle and Latitude Lever // Schlage Sense™ Wi‑Fi Adapter // Article TEAKA table // Article TEAKA chairs // Outdoor rug (no longer available) // Yield Spun Copper Planter // Ferm Living Box Planter in Rust // DWR Bullet Planter // Terrazzo Planter (similar available) // Areaware White Stacked Planter // Terra Cotta Citronella Candle // Moroccan Leather Floor Pouf // Bertoia Side Chairs
There may be a few more small tweaks to complete, but overall the porch is ready for company—just in time for the baby, who is due in about two weeks. It’s amazing how quickly time is passing.
Let me know what you think! I’d love your feedback on the porch and am happy to answer any questions about the makeover.