Whether you plan on making your outdoor space a bit more liveable, or simply want to inject some functionality into an otherwise unused space, use the tips posted in this blog to make your property’s outdoor area truly your own.
There’s really nothing more relaxing and enjoyable than relaxing outdoors on a warm summer evening. However, many property owners find it challenging to make their outdoor areas fashionable, stylish, and inviting.
Whether you’re looking to design the perfect space to spend a summer night with friends, or you want a quiet, relaxing retreat perfect for cuddling up with a book, the strategies posted in this blog will get you started down the right path.
Entertaining: Seating and Finding Space
Lots of people enjoy entertaining outdoors, especially during the spring and summer months, but what should you do if you have limited space? Dealing with seating is one of the main areas of concern when it comes to entertaining guests. Luckily, there are quite a few ways that you can get creative with seating arrangements.
Don’t limit yourself to only using chairs. Rather, think about other ways that you can incorporate seating into your design (e.g. swings, porch swings, stools, couches, etc.). This is the perfect time to get creative and truly showcase your ingenuity.
Failing all else, you can opt for a marquee – which would provide guests with further space (and more room for additional seating). There are numerous marquees for sale online, with most of them coming in numerous color, style, and size options.
Don’t Forget About Greenery
One of the best ways to inject some personality and life into your outdoor living space is through utilizing plants. This is particularly true for homeowners who don’t necessarily have the space for their own gardens.
When it comes to using plants (potted plants, that is), it’s generally recommended to use a variety of different styles. This means choosing different color plants, pots, and setting them in unique arrangements.
Not Enough Space to Garden? Don’t Worry
We just touched on the fact that using potted plants instead of a dedicated garden as an excellent alternative option, but what about going vertical? That’s right – have you ever thought about using tall plants to liven up your outdoor space?
This style of garden/plant design works very well for areas with limited space. If you put some tall, vertical plants up against a wall, for example, you will be able to instantly create a more welcoming, warm environment.
Use Your Walls!
Lots of homes, condos, and apartments have outdoor seating areas that are directly adjacent to one or more walls. If left untreated, this might make that area feel a little cold and limiting (especially from a spatial perspective). One of the best ways to liven this type of outdoor area up is by using those walls to your advantage.
We already talked about using tall, vertical plants, but there’s no need to stop there. Don’t forget about adding decorations, colors, and additional textures to those walls. All of these design elements will help to add some vividity to your outdoor space (which will make it seem more warm and welcoming, as opposed to a barren jail-like walled area).
Understand How the Design Will Flow
One of the most important aspects of interior/exterior design is understanding how people will be using that specific space. When it comes to outdoor areas, the main consideration you need to think about is foot traffic. Outdoor areas are naturally very walkable, and people are usually coming and going (from indoors, another outdoor area, etc.).
What does this mean for your design plans? Simply put, you need to make sure that your design isn’t too crowded. There needs to be enough functional space so that movement isn’t restricted. If you find that your plan creates a densely-trafficked area, you can always redirect the flow by switching the layout or adding new elements that will change the way people interact with the space.
Get Creative With Your Outdoor Space
Too many homeowners simply put a small patio area down and maybe add a furniture set. Why stop there? Decorating an outdoor space can be fun, creative, and help improve the overall aesthetic of your property. Use the tips above to get started designing your perfect outdoor space today.
