A lanai is similar to a porch ... 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 ...

To this confusing mishmash, I’d like to add one more home feature you may not have heard of beforethe lanai. Originating in Hawaii in the 1800s, lanais are roofed, open-walled porches attached ...