Designing Your Outdoor Living Space

This week on the Blog, Julia Abriola, our talented Design Intern takes over and discusses her thoughts on creating the perfect outdoor living space.

Summer is in full swing and we couldn’t be more excited to take in the sunshine and enjoy the outdoors! But while you've probably been looking forward to the summer festivities since the beginning of the year, your outdoor space may not be as prepared. If you dream of having your friends over and throwing a great summer party in your backyard, don’t let that comfortless pair of lawn chairs on your patio stop you. Instead of letting your outdoor space become an afterthought, make it feel like an extension of your home. Whether you live in a city and don't have a lot of outdoor space, or you live out in the suburbs with a huge backyard, these design tips will help you host the summer party of your dreams.

Define spaces with pathways

If you have a large backyard and are having trouble deciding where to put all your furniture, one of the best ways to define separate areas is with pathways. Laying down pavers or pouring concrete is an easy way to separate one space from another. Create a path leading to a seating area, or define a dining area with a stone patio. Consider raising one or two of your spaces to further define areas and give them their own feel.

Image Source: HGTV

Set up comfortable seating for socializing

A great way to make your outdoor space feel more like a part of your home is with large, soft outdoor sofas. Your backyard can truly be a second living room when you add some comfortable outdoor accent chairs and sofas. Opt for a large sectional around a cozy fire pit, or even install a built-in bench for extra seating. You’ll have more space for conversation, and your guests will greatly appreciation the lounge-like feel.

Image Source: Decor Pad

Add visual interest with landscaping

It may seem obvious that a backyard would need some plants, but how you landscape your outdoor space can help to define space. Rather than just mulching one corner of your yard and adding a few small plants, consider adding multiple landscaped areas. Add plants around your seating area to separate it from the rest of the yard. You can also go vertical by adding climbing plants or multiple levels of plantings to add interest to the space. Landscaping is also a great way to bring color into your space.

Image Source: Pinterest

Include protection from the elements

For when the weather is not what you were hoping it would be, having a covered area in your outdoor space is a real lifesaver. A pergola or a covered patio will allow you to continue enjoying the outdoors even when Mother Nature may not. Also, free-standing structures like these are another helpful way to define separate spaces in your yard and make them feel more intimate.

Image Source: Houzz

Bring the kitchen outdoors

If you have the space for it, a small kitchen in your outdoor space can take entertaining to the next level. Many homeowners nowadays want to have the ultimate backyard party space, and a fancy grill and a few small appliances are a great way to achieve that dream. Keep it simple and opt for a small counter with all of your needed appliances, or add an island and ample seating for the perfect outdoor dining setting.

Add features of fire and water

To really create a lively outdoor area, bring in elements of fire or water. A fire pit will bring warmth to a chilly night, but it’s also a great place to hang out with your guests. As for water features, it’s easy to install a fountain, or go more extravagant and create a rock waterfall feature. An extra element like this is a great conversation starter and adds a serene feel to your outdoor space.

Don’t forget homey accessories

To really make your outdoor space feel like an extension of your living room, bring in some accessories that you would find indoors. There are great selections of outdoor furnishings from most home goods stores, from lamps to blankets to pillows. Add an outdoor rug to your seating area to ground the space and soften it up. You can even hang artwork—just make sure it’s weatherproof or will be covered well from the elements.

Image Source: Pinterest

Set the mood with lighting

Lighting is one of the finishing touches to a space, and your backyard shouldn’t be any different. You can keep it casual by hanging string lights throughout the space for a simple feel, which will also connect the whole yard. Or hang an outdoor chandelier for a fancier feel. You can also add a mix of lighting for a different layered feel. Whichever way you decide to go, having lighting in your outdoor space will really bring that homey feel outdoors.

Image Source: HGTV