Baby it’s cold outside….but if you have plans to create a great outdoor living space, now is the time to start planning for it! As our patios and porches are becoming more sophisticated and refined, today’s homeowners are driven to create peaceful sanctuaries as an extension of their everyday living space
So, where do you begin, and how do you master the design of flowing your indoor and outdoor spaces together? Here are a few things to take into consideration before creating the outdoor space of your dreams!
It all starts with a plan!
It’s generally a good idea to begin this process by first thinking about how you will use the space. Will it be a place to relax and unwind or a place to entertain? Do you want to use it year-round, or just in the warmer months? Do you want to have some type of built-in shade or do you prefer a natural open setting?
As you consider all the activities you want to accommodate in your new outdoor space, you might consider creating specific spaces for specific events. Activities such as outdoor cooking – on a grill or customized outdoor kitchen, might be best suited in one area…dining in another. Do you want an area with casual/comfortable seating or just a dining table.?
Landscaping- Be Strategic!
Creating the right landscape plan to surround your outdoor space is extremely important. Shrubbery, flowers, and architectural accents will all play an important part in the overall design as you finalize your landscape plan. You’ll find that stonework and carpentry choices will be critical components to aid you in creating your perfect outdoor retreat. Some plants will deter mosquitoes. While others will be fragrant and colorful. Finding the right balance and proximity of these plants will be critical. Engaging the help of a landscape architect will ensure you maximize the benefits of the landscaping.
Furniture – Comfort and Style are Key!
Outdoor furniture has evolved dramatically over the years. Today fabric choices are virtually limitless, as fabrics can now be specially treated to withstand the elements. Natural fibers such as wicker, rattan, teak, and bamboo are among the many choices available in outdoor furniture. Featuring a myriad of design styles, outdoor furnishings have never been more stylish, chic, or comfortable.
Comfort, of course, should reign supreme as you make your furniture selections. After all, you’re creating a relaxing and fun outdoor space – one in which you can totally enjoy yourself. And, as always, try to arrange your outdoor furniture just like you would arrange your indoor furniture – with special care given to conversation and convenience!
Shade- Controlling the light
While basking in the sun may sound heavenly in the middle of winter, let’s face it when it’s 100 degrees outside the sun isn’t quite as welcome. When thinking about your outdoor space, consider how you can guard against harsh summer weather. Outdoor window treatments come in a wide variety, ranging from the truly functional (UV protecting roller shades) to decorative draperies. Consider the direction your outdoor space will face, when you will use it most and where the sun will be during those times. Knowing these details will help you best plan for the right type of shade. For open spaces, umbrellas are generally ideal but knowing how large of an umbrella and whether you will need to tilt it to create the right amount of shade will be important in making the right selection.
Enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces have greater options such as roman shades, roller shades, or even draperies. With a vast number of options suitable for outdoor use, the window treatment may become an important design element of the space.
Above all, remember to create a space that is perfect for YOU and YOUR needs and the needs of your family. Your newly created outdoor space is guaranteed to be one where memories are made, a space where your family will gather, share, and remember their good times forever. Take time for careful planning, and you won’t be disappointed! That’s a promise!
