How to Create the Most Desirable and Practical Outdoor Living Area
It’s officially the season to be outside entertaining, watching the kids play, or simply relaxing with a book and a drink in hand - heck, it’s summer! Despite the bugs and those nosy neighbours, there’s always something so rejuvenating about outdoor living. But let’s be real, we all wish those cushions and patios got a bit of a refresh. Yup, we know exactly how badly you want to create a desirable and practical outdoor living area. Trust us, it’s well within your reach.
Purpose, Layout & Defining Spaces
First things first, decide the purpose of your outdoor space. Are you looking for a cozy nook to read and relax, a lively area for entertaining guests, or perhaps a versatile space that can do it all? Once you’ve nailed down the purpose, you can plan the layout accordingly. Think about traffic flow and ensure there’s a logical arrangement that makes moving around easy and practical. With the use of outdoor furniture and rugs, you can define different areas within your outdoor space. Create a dining area, a lounging zone, and perhaps a play area for the kids. This helps organize the space and makes it more functional.
Have an unused corner or a narrow, awkward spot? Don’t let it go to waste! Turn it into a charming seating area, a putting green, a sandbox, or even a vertical garden - the possibilities are endless. Get creative with your space and find ways to make every corner count.
Bear with us, but it doesn’t end there. Ensuring a smooth transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces is just as important. Keep your doors and windows clean - although we will say those little fingerprints or wet nose bops do tend to accumulate - and pull back those curtains so the outdoors can be easily seen and accessed.
Declutter & Refresh
We’ll say it time and time again: declutter, declutter, declutter! Just like indoors, an outdoor space can quickly become overrun with unnecessary items. Start with a clean slate by removing anything that doesn’t serve a purpose or bring you joy. Ensure you stick to a color scheme so the space isn’t too overwhelming. This simple step will make a world of difference.
And we all know how fast our outdoor spaces can get grimy and become home to our insect friends. Regularly dust off surfaces, wash cushions, clean cobwebs, and give everything a good pressure wash from time to time. Maybe even add a fresh coat of paint or wood sealant at the beginning of the season. These efforts will help maintain a clean, inviting environment and extend the life of your outdoor furniture and decor.
Incorporate Greenery & Freshen Up Flower Beds
Nothing breathes life into an outdoor space like plants - surprise, surprise. Incorporating greenery by adding potted plants, hanging baskets, or even creating a small garden bed is a must. Not only do plants add beauty, but they also provide a sense of tranquility.
Keep your flower beds looking their best by regularly removing weeds and adding fresh mulch or soil. We never said this would be fun, but we recommend cranking up some tunes and sipping something cold for maximum enjoyment. Healthy, vibrant plants are key to a beautiful outdoor space, so give them the attention they deserve.
Bring in the Elements: Water, Fire, Air
A water feature like a fountain or small pond adds not only a soothing sound but an amazing focal point. Similarly, fire pits or outdoor fireplaces create warmth and ambiance for those cooler evenings while also creating an inviting space to gather around. Oh! And don’t forget that breeze. Adding an outdoor ceiling fan can make a hot day more bearable and totally elevate your space!
Shade and Outdoor Lighting
The sun gets bright and hot, so it’s important to always incorporate shade. But after that beautiful sunset, lighting is crucial - not only for seeing this lovely oasis you’re creating but also for setting the mood and ensuring safety. Be sure to incorporate umbrellas or a pergola for shade, and add string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered garden lights to create a magical and enjoyable outdoor atmosphere.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to creating an outdoor living area that’s both desirable and practical. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and start transforming your space into the outdoor oasis you’ve always wanted. You’ve got this!
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