subject: Tips for Outdoor Living in Style [print this page] Tips for Outdoor Living in Style Tips for Outdoor Living in Style
Designing your outdoor space is similar to creating your indoor space: Think about the activities you enjoy most and how best to create a comfortable, functional environment. Keep the following guidelines in mind, and you will be sure to have your summer guests coming back for more.
Treat outdoor spaces as an extension of your home. Keep furniture styles consistent with your interior furniture and color palettes. Consider the view and juxtaposition of the indoor and outdoor spaces. Will the teal blue patio chairs look weird against the backdrop of your red sofa? Keep the styles similar to avoid mistakes and do-overs.
Create multiple seating groups for you and your guests. There should be an area for lounging, reading books and socializing as well as a designated dining area. Provide ample places to set down drinks and kick up your feet. Wood or metal stools are a great option serving as extra seating, a landing spot for drinks, or a place to put up your feet and relax. Also, consider using indoor-outdoor rugs to add pattern or to mask unsightly floors.
Lighting, lighting, lighting! First order of business: Ditch the harsh porch light for a variety of softer ambient light sources. White Christmas lights, Chinese lanterns, and candle lanterns are easy ways to create a kick-back vibe.
Think green. Regardless of the size of your outdoor area, a little green goes a long way. Add life to your space with potted plants and flower boxes. Pick a theme and stick with two or three species of plants for a more unified look.
