Going on 2+ years now, this Hacienda renovation has been a never ending saga—particularly when it comes to the backyard. Last week we had yet another major setback with permitting issues on the pool/landscaping, and there seems to be no end in sight.
Update: Check out the final porch reveal here!
While it has been a frustrating year so far, we have made some great progress on the back porch—enough to warrant a progress update post! We started on this area back in August of last year, and have been slowly chipping away at it. Here’s how it started:
Originally I purchased a sectional sofa set for this space, but then I got a wild hair after browsing too long on Pinterest (per usual) and decided I just had to have custom built-in seating and lots of arches. Luckily, Lucas was on board! Here’s the inspiration that started it all…
Jump to:
DIY Stucco Sectional
After measuring the space and mocking up a drawing, I came up with the plans and handed them over to Lucas to work his magic.
He started by building a simple 2×4′ frame for the seating. This back wall is just over 8′ wide and 9′ tall, for reference.
My design plan included ledges for built-in table top surfaces.
The benches were wrapped in OSB sheathing.
Then it was time to build the arches. Lucas drew a half-round arch on each wall (using the screw and string method) measuring 73″ wide and 94″ from the ground.
He cut out the shape on the sheathing, and held everything up for a test fit.
Next, he added 2×4 blocking to the back of the arches and attached it to the walls.
Finally, the front of the arches were covered with sheathing.
Arched Opening
While we were adding arches to the patio, we figured we may as well make a few more for the top corners. The lackluster squared opening of the original house was just not working with the new design…
Lucas whipped up these arch sandwiches (you can find more details about how to build these in my DIY arched doorway post):
The next step is one we were smart enough to hire out: stucco. This requires several steps and expertise we don’t have, so we were happy to leave it to the pros.
I can’t provide instructions for this part unfortunately, but here are some progress photos!
I was worried they wouldn’t be able to match the texture of the original stucco, but they did a great job.
After testing out a handful of paint samples, I landed on my tried and true—Sherwin Williams Alabaster. This is also the color of the interior walls.
It really is the perfect creamy white that looks good in every lighting.
I also grabbed two of these lanterns for a steal—they’ve unfortunately since gone out of stock!
This portion was completed back in November, and the patio remained unchanged until last month, when Lucas began working on the ceiling.
Wood Ceiling Beams
Inspired by the rich wood beam porch ceilings in traditional Spanish-style architecture, we set out to recreate the look with inexpensive pine lumber.
Lucas constructed the beams with our go-to method—you can find a detailed tutorial in my DIY box beams post.
We also added tongue and groove planks, stained using Valspar semi-transparent exterior stain in the color Potato Skin.
It can’t be overstated how much of a difference ceiling beams make—indoors or out! They completely transformed this patio.
We replaced the old outdated fans with these sleek 3-blade fans.
The ceiling was completed over the course of five days, and cost $1,102 in lumber and stain. It’s my favorite feature, and 100% worth every penny and hour spent!
Floor tile
I went back and forth on the tile selection so many times, before finally landing on this fun patterned ceramic tile. The style is a mix of Spanish/Mediterranean, the colors coordinate with the interior of the home, and the design is eye catching and fun but not too trendy IMO.
The edge is lined with handmade terra cotta bullnose tile, which is also used on the front porch and steps.
Porch Reveal
The porch is about 90% done—here’s how it looks today!
I love our new outdoor ceiling fans and they’re on sale, too. We still have to update the doors and window, which we’re starting on today. Update: check them out in my easy DIY window grids post!
I found a seller on Amazon to make custom seat cushions in the exact shape and size I needed. They were great to work with, and even made matching pillow covers in the same faux linen fabric!
I’m so glad we spent the time and energy on creating this custom built-in sofa. The arches really take it to the next level and make this space truly one of a kind.
As special as the interior of this home is, we envision the backyard as the main attraction and gathering area for our guests. This unique Mediterranean-style patio is one big step towards that vision!
Cost breakdown
| DIY sofa/arch supplies | $611 |
| Stucco (labor) | $1,750 |
| Paint (labor) | $1,100 |
| Wood beam ceiling | $1,102 |
| Sconces and fans | $955 |
| Tile | $3,300 |
| Tile install | $2,300 |
| Total | $11,118 |
This makeover is easily one of our top bang-for-your-buck transformations! Money well spent, and we’ll reap the rewards for years to come.
We’re working on getting the door makeover finished in time to share next week, so don’t go anywhere! Make sure you’re following along on my Instagram stories in the meantime for sneak peeks 🙂
Heather Richardson says
Hi! Love this!!! So inspiring 🙂 where are your ceiling fans on the porch from?
Jenna Sue says
THey’re from Amazon, and on sale! https://amzn.to/4604L2C
Debbie says
You’re blog is my absolute favorite!!! And I follow quite a few blogs, absolutely stunning work you both create. Really sweet family too
Tina Puth says
This is turning out SO beautiful. We are currently working on a remodeling project and I hope mine turns out as good as yours! We just rented a dumpster so we can get started. I’m so excited!!
Angela Gallegos says
How did you attach the tongue and groove pine boards to the stucco ceiling I love everything you’ve done here. I have a Spanish colonial house that’s just builder basic for the most part I had decided I wanted to do the wood ceilings just like yours, but I’m still figuring out the details like attaching the wood. Did you use tap con screws?
Jenna Sue says
Hi Angela! Our ceiling is just textured drywall, not stucco. We would have had to use tapcons if it were block, which would definitely make the job take much longer!
Caroline says
It looks so good! I can’t wait to see the entire reveal.
Mary says
Absolutely beautiful!
catherine says
Magnifique! bravo🙏
@catherinecoteterres
Katelyn says
So beautiful. Seriously, everything you do is just stunning. But did I miss a pool reveal?????
Jenna Sue says
Thank you Katelyn! I’m waiting until the deck is finished and our landscaping is in to share that portion of the backyard — hopefully next month it will be ready!
Lydia says
Amazing transformation!
Bethany says
Gorgeous! Inspiring! All the good things!
Renee Witt says
You guys are so talented it blows my mind every time. I love how you always put your own timeless spin on everything. Bravo!!
Cindy says
Wow! Just WOW! What a beautifully thought out vision!
Vanessa says
Bravo Jenna Sue and Lucas!
Lia says
Amazing!!! Would love to see a pulled back shot like the before shot you took of the whole back porch from a distance.
Heather Taylor says
You two are the most terrifically talented twosome ever!