What’s a Lanai?

Published to RandyRipley.com

Hawaii is a unique place; that’s why everyone dreams of living here! But when you’re looking for real estate on the Big Island, some of the terms can be a bit confusing. As you browse through the lists of available homes, you’re bound to come across the term “Lanai.” A lanai is one of the most popular architectural features in homes throughout the islands.

More Than a Porch

Although you might see them in other tropical parts of the world, lanais are a purely Hawaiian invention. Since it is the land of endless summer, people want a place where they can enjoy the outdoors year-round. On the mainland, many houses have porches where you can sit outside and sip your coffee on warm mornings. Lanais take the idea of a porch and go a few steps farther.

A lanai is a true outdoor living space. Think of them as living rooms without walls. Many lanais even have cooking areas and bars, so you never have to stop enjoying the beautiful Hawaiian weather. Some homes have sliding glass or screen doors that can enclose the lanai in the rare case of strong wind or storms.

Benefits of a Lanai

Living in the islands is all about relaxing and being one with nature. What could get you into the Hawaiian mindset better than literally living in the outdoors? Instead of turning on the news or rewatching your favorite TV series for the twentieth time, spend time in nature by relaxing in your lanai. You didn’t move to the islands to be inside! Lanais encourage a sense of peace and relaxation with nature.

How to Make the Most of Your Lanai

The short answer: relax! Whether it’s alone or with your family and friends, a lanai is the perfect place to be together with nature. Here are a few ideas to turn your lanai into your favorite “room” of the house.

• Outdoor garden – There are plenty of herbs, flowers and vegetables that love to grow in partial sunlight. Nature is already surrounding your lanai, why not bring some inside? Planting an outdoor garden in your lanai is a great way to have fresh vegetables and herbs year-round and can also add plenty of color to the space.
• Party space – Lanais don’t always have to be relaxing; they’re also the perfect place to throw a party with all your family and friends. Since they don’t have any walls, there’s no limit to the amount of people you can invite. Plus, with a grill and a cooler, there’s no need for party guests to tramp through your house.
• Meditation den – As if a lanai isn’t relaxing enough, just add some candles and plushy pillows and you have your very own meditation den.

No Better Way to Enjoy Living in Hawaii

If you’re thinking of moving to the islands to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, a lanai should be included in your “must have” list. Luckily, there are plenty of homes available with beautiful lanais that overlook some of the most pristine shorelines and bluest water in the world. If you’re ready to get started looking for your dream home, call me at 808.209.6244 or email me at RandyRipley808@gmail.com.

Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.