Longer days and warmer temperatures are finally here. We have visions of firing up the grill and lazy days basking in the sun. That outside life is calling. Are you ready? When you step onto your deck or patio does it call to you, inviting you, to come out and relax and chill? Is it a space where you are happy to welcome guests? Can it accommodate your family and friends? If not, you might be thinking of making a few changes, but don’t know where to begin.
Here are 4 great ways to get started:
Start with the obvious
First, look at your furniture. Is old, worn out or just boring? Does it match your personality? Outdoor fabrics have come a long way. Today there are an abundance of performance fabrics in colors and patterns you can select to brighten up and infuse some fun and personality. With today’s variety of performance fabrics, there is no reason not to have fun colorful cushions. Take full advantage of the wide variety of options: bistro sets, chic chaise lounges, hammocks, wooden beach chairs, outdoor sofas, and gliders.
The most important consideration is how you want your patio, porch, or deck to function. What’s the range of the number of people you foresee using the space and the amount of yard space you have to work with.
If you have a pool, how will you divide the space among the swimmers and splashers, the sun bathers, the yard-game competitors and the loungers.
If you have a smaller backyard, you can allocate space for about two to three people to sit there together. Sleek, colorful folding chairs or stackables that can be moved or stashed away easily are great choices for a small space. If you want a relaxing place to read or enjoy the outdoor breeze, a hanging chair can be a swinger.
Bring it to life with plants
Adding a little nature with plants and greenery is especially important on porches, patios and decks. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed potted flower. You don’t have to be a landscape designer or have a green thumb to add plants to your backyard oasis. Many plants thrive outdoors with just a little attention. If you prefer you can find faux plants that have the same effect with no effort. Here are some outdoor plants that are easy to care for and look great:
- Succulents: These increasingly popular and easy-going plants thrive in the sun and need very little water.
- Palm plants: If tropical is what you want, palm plants can deliver. These fast-growing greens can add shade and flair to any pool.
- Flowers: As broad as this category is, there are hundreds (if not thousands) of varieties of beautiful blooms that can bring color and style to your backyard. Smaller potted plants can live on tabletops, while palms can be placed in the corners near seating areas, creating a shaded and comfortable place to relax.
Perfect your lighting
While the summer days are long, the right lighting can extend your outdoor enjoyment. Good lighting can build an intimate ambiance, initiate conversations, brighten outdoor meals and enhance the use of a pool, no matter the time of day.
Adding a Fun Entertainment Element
Don’t forget a firepit for those tasty chocolate/marshmallow treats. Consider a TV for movie nights. How about custom cornhole boards? Maybe you’re the ones to revive badminton in your neighborhood—or introduce it. Outdoor games can be fun for old and young alike.
Remember, it’s not just a space: It’s an outdoor lifestyle.
Ready to create an outdoor living space you’ll love? Contact DL Rich Designs – Decorating Den Interiors today at 301-970-9339 to schedule your complimentary design consultation.
