For those dwelling in more temperate climates, the great outdoors can be an option for adding valuable square footage to your home’s entertaining space. Picture this: a wide set of sliding doors that open your living room to a generous, covered outdoor area, complete with additional seating, a comfortable breeze, and the ability to let guests effortlessly flow between the interior and exterior space. If this sounds like a dream, a lanai might be for you.

We tapped Charlie Lankston, executive editor at Realtor.com, to share all the details on this exterior entertaining hero.

History of the Lanai

According to Lankston, the word “lanai” takes its name from one of the Hawaiian islands. “The term describes a covered, open-sided porch that is traditionally furnished for comfort, featuring items like couches or chairs, as well as ceiling fans, and often opens up onto a property’s yard or pool area,” he says.

While the word was originally coined in Hawaii in the 1800s, Lankston says the hybrid structures, oftentimes used for entertaining, have long been a fixture of the islands’ architectural heritage. These days, the popularity of the lanai has spread to many other warm climates within the continental U.S., ranging from Florida to Southern California.

What Is a Lanai?

A lanai is an open-air exterior room that has at least one open side and is typically attached to the back of the property, Lankston explains. It is oftentimes thought of as an extension of the home and thus used as an entertaining area or additional living space. “More often than not, lanais are located on the ground floor of the property, and may well feature screens or windows to protect those inside it from outside elements like inclement weather or bugs,” he says.

What’s the Difference Between a Lanai, Porch, and Patio?

Porches, patios, and lanais are all within the same family, but Lankston says there are a few distinguishable factors between the structures.

While there are side porches, back porches, and second-story porches (among others), typically the word porch is most often associated with a space off the front of the property that could have a roof but is mostly open aside from a back wall, which it would share with the property. A patio is typically without a roof and a veranda is oftentimes only partly covered.

A lanai provides a type of inside-outside feel that is unique to this type of architectural element.

Lanai Design Ideas

Put Comfort First

“A lanai should be all about conversation and relaxation—think large, cushioned chairs or couches, perhaps a table for people to place food or drinks, and, ideally, a fan of some kind in order to prevent the space from getting too stuffy in very hot weather,” says Lankston.

Consider Screens

Opting for screens instead of windows can help provide that indoor-outdoor feel but, if you want even more customization, look into screens that can be lowered and raised in order to completely open the space to the great outdoors. While this will come with a hefty investment, some might find it is worth the spend in order to increase the space’s functionality.

Select Furniture Wisely

“It is worth noting that any furniture you want to place in a lanai should be capable of holding up in an outdoor environment, particularly if you live in an area that might experience a lot of rain,” warns Lankston. Look for fabrics and materials that are sturdy enough for heat, humidity, moisture, and temperature fluctuations to ensure your furnishings can stand up to the elements.

Keep in Mind How You Can Best Use the Space

If you frequently dine alfresco or prefer to take your morning coffee outside, consider how your lanai’s furnishings can further this aim. The same can be said when it comes to considering your entertaining needs. If room for guests to sit with a cocktail is often in high demand or you simply need more seating for your family dinners, let your lanai help. A large outdoor dining table, comfortable sofas and rattan armchairs, or even a large TV hung over a built-in outdoor fireplace can help add square footage to your home’s living space—all without overhauling the interior.