11 Sunroom Decorating Ideas That Will Transform This Underused Space

Design this room with everyday living in mind, and it will quickly become your favorite place to relax and entertain.

A sunroom offers the best of both worlds—views of mother nature, but protection from inclement weather. Whether you're taking shelter from winter's bitter chill, staying cool in the middle of a heat wave, or enjoying spring's spectacular view, anyone who's lucky enough to have access to a sunroom will return to this space all year round.

Just like any other area in the house, a sunroom should be designed with the utmost care. When decorating this space, you'll want to lean into pieces that complement the unique indoor-outdoor setting. To help you get started, we're sharing some of the best sunroom decorating ideas (courtesy of interior designers) that will transform this underused space into your favorite place to relax.

Related: 18 Small Patio Ideas to Maximize Your Outdoor Space

Be Thoughtful With Furniture

When decorating your sunroom, select furniture that works with your vista, not against it. "If a coastal view is the center of attention, clear the windows, use low-height furniture and natural materials, and keep the décor to a minimum," says Melanie Emmen, senior designer at AvantStay. "To elevate a sunroom, add an oversized rug, sufficient lighting, throw blankets, and ample tables for [entertaining]."

Add Plants

Nod to the outdoor view by filling the space with plants. "I recommend creating an area for a collection of plants. Since the room is bright, you can also incorporate some bolder colors throughout," says Mary Patton, a Houston-based designer. With the right plant and flower varieties and complementary colors, you will be able to craft a lush environment that strikes a happy balance between lively and serene.

Choose Durable Furniture

Just because a sunroom brings the outdoors in doesn't mean it has to feel like an exterior extension. It's ultimately important to create a sunroom that looks and functions like a living room. The key? Using comfortable textiles you'd see in a more traditional interior.

But since your sunroom sees much more natural light than your living room, fabric choice matters more. "We love to use perennial fabrics and pillows that won't fade," says Hillary Stamm, founder of a California-based design firm HMS Interiors. "This will help keep the space special and gorgeous, but also resistant over time, since the area gets a lot of sun and will feel the weather." Round out the space with a strong wooden table—complete with a mélange of books, candles, and fresh flowers—that will always look its best, rain or shine.

Add a Mirror

Sunrooms are bright and airy in nature, thanks to their extensive lineup of large windows—so why not accentuate this standout feature with mirrors that make all that light dance? Strategically places mirrors on the walls to brighten and bounce the light and accentuate the view, suggests Lane Thomas, co-founder of Louisiana-based firm Thomas Guy Interiors.

Install Window Treatments

Despite its name and reputation, a sunroom doesn't have to be sunny all of the time. "Don't forget to think in detail about window treatments," says designer Emilie Munroe. "A sunroom always revolves around great light and views, but at certain times of day or year, light will become piercing—so have a plan for how you want to block it effectively."

For the best results, natural fiber shades are a great way to diffuse light. While many dwellers enjoy the versatility of blinds, they can have a linear shadow effect.

Layer Lighting

We often think about using our sunrooms during the day—but how will it function at night? "It is important to add some ambient lighting," says Beth Dotolo and Carolina V. Gentry of Pulp Design Studios. "Hang a pendant, rather than hardwired light, and have a custom cord cover made to add some character and a sense of playfulness."

Add a Swing Chair

A sunroom is the perfect place to get a little creative. "Since it's a bit of a luxury to have this extra space in a home, we love adding in a unique feature that caters to our clients and their family," says Minnesota-based designer Bria Hammel. Case in point: This well-appointed swing, which offers plenty of fun for the entire family.

Mix and Match Furniture

Think of a sunroom as a blank canvas—the perfect place to incorporate various sources of design inspiration. "The mix of classical furniture pieces with modern sofas and bright colors plays an important role in a room full of light," says Gonzalo Bueno of Ten Plus Three. Better yet, deftly mix and match furniture so the room pulls double duty. For example, work in a sofa that is perfect for lounging and a desk, too, so you can have a sunny nook for answering emails.

Incorporate Pillows

Ultimately, it's important to create a space that is welcoming and comfortable year round. Adding plush furniture that you'll want to utilize for hours on end the perfect way to do so. "[Incorporate] soft, fluffy pillows that prop elbows, soften corners, and improve sitting depth," says Michael Cox, founder of New York-based design firm Foley&Cox. "Remember, this is one of the most 'outside-in' rooms of the home, so sit back, breathe deep, and reconnect with friends, mother nature, and your inner thoughts."

Prioritize Extra Seating

If you want to turn your sunroom into a relaxing oasis, double down on seating options, says Elizabeth Gill. "Consider using a sectional or oversized swivel chairs," she says. "I like utilizing a mix of natural materials with pretty fabrics, which will allow the space to be used in both a casual setting with family or to host friends."

Consider Temperature

Though they're an extension of your home, sunrooms can still feel hot during summer and cold during winter. When decorating, consider the surrounding climate and adjust accordingly. "[Add] screens in the window for fresh air and cross ventilation, multiple throws for when the breeze gets cool, or a ceiling fan for when the breeze gets warm," says Cox.