Creating Outdoor Living Spaces
Living spaces aren’t just for the indoors anymore. Today, you’ll find outdoor spaces to match most rooms of your home. Create the outdoor living areas that are right for your lifestyle using these tips.
YOUR SPACE
Outdoor spaces come in all shapes and sizes. How you want to use the space helps you decide how to create the outdoor living area that fits your needs. Consider creating outdoor destinations like a kitchen, living or dining area – a place that’s just for you when you want to get away from it all.
As you design your dream yard, consider:
- How much space do you have?
- What are your needs for the space?
- How many people are invited?
- How do you want the traffic to flow?
- What are your ideal eye-lines?
Design by Destination:
Ideas to Get you Started
Kitchen
- See our Grill-Buying Guide for great outdoor cooking ideas.
Living
- Hang out with friends on a big comfy couch with a few lounge chairs or a sectional sofa.
- Play games and snack around a coffee table.
- Host casual evening cocktails.
- Get cozy around a fire-pit.
Dining
- Host family or neighborhood dinners at a patio dining set.
- For an odd-shaped area, consider grouping smaller pieces like a few bistro tables with barstools.
- On uneven ground, try tables with self-leveling legs.
Relaxing
- Create a cozy nook with a swing, a sling, chaise lounge or fire pit.
- Don’t forget a side table for your favorite beverage or to put your book while you nap.
Weather-wise
Based on your use, location and weather, some materials are going to perform better than others. Search for easy-care patio furniture to minimize the need for upkeep. Most metal, teak, cedar and all-weather wicker pieces are unfazed by whatever nature throws their way.
Your Style
Extend your indoor style outside with a wide-range of colors, fabrics and accessories that reflect the looks you love.
Fabulous Fabrics
Textile advancements such as quick-drying and fade-resistant fabrics and foams give you more options than ever. Check out lightweight, synthetic weaves used to make fabric slings and webbings that stretch and give a high level of comfort and support.
Versatile Accessories
To add color or just change it up, use bolder hues for throw pillows, cushions and accent pieces. These items will likely be used less often, resulting in less wear, and are less expensive to replace to create a brand-new look.
All-Weather Rugs
Nothing ties an outdoor look together better than an all-weather rug. Rated for outdoor use, a quick-drying outdoor rug gives you outdoor comfort that is soft underfoot and rich in texture.
Long-Lasting Luxury
Because it needs to withstand the elements and accommodate rougher usage, patio furniture can command a higher price tag than similar indoor pieces. Typically, the materials are stronger, more fade-resistant and better able to repel water than less expensive alternatives.
The Replaceable Route
If you want some fun lounge chairs and end tables, there’s nothing wrong with buying a low-cost set. You might save money initially, but replacement costs add up over time and you could end up spending more in the long run.
Protect Your Investment
Add years to the life of your patio furniture by storing it in a shed, garage or other protected location during the off-season. Many brands have customized covers that are made specifically for each piece of furniture.
