In a state that experiences the extremes of every season, porches and sunrooms have become must-have retreats for Minnesota homeowners. These versatile spaces blur the line between indoors and out, offering cozy spots to soak in fall’s gorgeous colors, shelter from summer sun, or watch the snow fall in comfort. Designed for all-weather use, these porches and sunrooms embrace connections with nature—no matter the time of year.
Four-Season Farmhouse
Designed for year-round enjoyment, this farmhouse porch by Rehkamp Larson Architects, Hagstrom Builder, and Kristin Hoaglund Design is an indoor-outdoor paradise. Overlooking the woods, prairie, and backyard pool, the space was created for intergenerational gatherings, allowing the homeowners to host their children and grandchildren in every season. Bifolding glass doors—connecting the porch to the house—open wide in spring and fall, while during the summer, the windows invite in the breeze. On crisp autumn nights, a glowing fire makes the space irresistibly cozy.
Cool & Connected
This Wayzata screened porch, designed by Jim Kuiken Design, beautifully bridges indoor comfort and outdoor living. With direct access to the grilling deck, main deck, lower-level patio, and pool area, it flows seamlessly without interrupting lake views from the kitchen. The focal point of the space is a warm fireplace, crafted from Castlerock stone and reclaimed cedar wood. Other thoughtful details—like a dormer window, custom ceiling fan, and motorized screens—create an all-season retreat perfectly suited for lounging, watching a game, or basking in the beauty of the lake.
Natural Getaway
A sunroom designed for Minnesota living, this serene Minnetonka retreat was crafted by City Homes, Alexander Design Group, and Randolph Interior Design with purpose and precision. Following a detailed sun study by the architecture team, the space was perfectly positioned for comfort and views. EZVue porch windows, infrared heaters, and a wood-burning fireplace offer year-round usability, while natural elements—like the cedar knot tongue and groove ceiling, IPE flooring, and Mountain Ridge MC stone on the fireplace—create a warm, natural vibe. Connected to a built-in outdoor grill kitchen and cozy seating area under a pergola, it’s a peaceful, multifunctional escape.
The Ultimate Treehouse
Tucked into the trees on a Cold Spring waterfront property, this 300-square-foot screen porch, designed by Shelter Architecture, captures the family’s vision of connecting with each other and the outdoors. Positioned to preserve existing view corridors and privacy, the porch feels like it’s nestled in the canopy of surrounding trees. A 12-foot-wide multislide pocket door and pass-through kitchen window create seamless flow between indoors and out, transforming the lakeside retreat into an integrated hub for gathering, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery.
Lower-Level Escape
This indoor-outdoor entertaining area, dubbed the “Lower-Level Escape” by Mom’s Design Build, blends indoor comfort with outdoor ambience for year-round enjoyment. The space features a louvered pergola that maximizes height without obstructing views from the main level. A solid roof structure and privacy walls shelter the hot tub, while infrared heaters, EZ screens, and wet-rated lighting enhance comfort. The wide door, Fond du Lac wall, and synthetic turf area complete the transformation—creating a true escape perfect for relaxing or entertaining in any season.
