Bathroom remodeling ideas that add style and space
April 18, 2012Black is ‘in’ for up-to-date interiors
April 20, 2012More homeowners want their outdoor space to truly be an extension of their house and are taking steps to create an inviting area to relax, play and host guests. If you want to update your deck or patio for warm weather entertaining, you don’t have to spend a lot of time or money. You can easily refresh the items you already have and add new stylish elements by keeping some top trends and design ideas in mind.
Mix functional furniture:
The line between indoor and outdoor design is blurring. You can coordinate the style of adjacent indoor and outdoor rooms, since you and your guests will likely spend time in both. No matter if you have a large outdoor deck or a simple small patio, many affordable, stylish outdoor furniture options are available at your local home improvement retail stores. Set up furniture with flow in mind, grouping pieces together to encourage comfort, conversation and a view of nature.
Add colorful accessories:
Incorporating rugs, outdoor pillows, candles and other accessories in vivid colors or fun patterns can really make your outdoor space come alive. Pick three to four colors for your scheme and stick with those colors throughout your design choices. Some of the season’s top hues include rich reds, vivid blues, soothing neutrals and garden-inspired greens. Metal accents are popular as well, so look for decor with gold or silver detailing for a design that’s modern with a tropical flare.
Incorporate a fire pit:
An outdoor bonfire likely evokes pleasant memories of the past, so incorporate a fire pit into your patio space so your whole family can enjoy time together roasting marshmallows, telling stories and gazing at the stars. Today’s modern fire pits are both stylish and useful, adding a cozy ambiance while warding off the chill on cooler nights. Plus when the seasons do change and fall brings with it lower temperatures, you can still enjoy the beautiful outdoor space you’ve created because you’ll be comfortably warm. Remember to look for options that have a removable screen, so you can open when needed for cooking and then close to keep the fire safely contained.
Create privacy:
Just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean that you don’t want a bit of privacy from neighbors or passersby. The good news is it’s easy to create boundaries to your space by using a pergola or outdoor curtains. These options tie in nicely with other outdoor design trends and can give just the right amount of privacy, creating your own outdoor “room” in which to enjoy the long, sunny days.
Light the night:
Lighting can really make your outdoor space come alive once the sun goes down. Add depth and intrigue by “lightscaping” from different sources. Consider putting up string lights that provide a magical setting that is sure to dazzle guests long after darkness falls. Add an intimate wall lantern next to the patio door or eco-friendly LED garden and path lights to add a soft illumination to outdoor space.
Grow an herb garden:
There’s nothing that adds the flavors of summer to food like fresh herbs. One of today’s top trends is to have a container garden so you always have your favorite herbs on hand to freshly pick. Popular herbs that are easy to grow include basil, chives, cilantro, dill, fennel and mint. When planting, use containers that complement your outdoor design. Vintage styles that feature aged patinas are very popular this year.
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6 Comments
Hey Gary, thanks for sharing. My husband and I bought a house last year, and we are yet to decorate our 30 by 15 ft patio. I recently started by purchasing a table set from IKEA (http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90055696/) and will be buying throws/pillows for it soon. Any recommendations for that? I also want to start growing some herbs and pretty flowers. Lot of things to keep me busy this summer 🙂
P.S Hope you’re liking Livefyre so far. Welcome to the community, and if you’ve any questions, please don’t hesitate to send them our way. We’ll be happy to assit 🙂
@Dhara Mistry Hey Dhara, congrats on your new home! Did you see any pillows at IKEA that you liked? I also love Pier1 for decorating! Nothing beats fresh herbs from your own garden when you’re cooking. The flavor is so much better! Good luck with your gardening. I do like Livefyre, thanks. Thanks for offering assistance if we need it 🙂
@GaryBruzzese Glad to know you’re liking Livefyre so far Gary. I didn’t like any outdoor decorating items at IKEA, as I was looking at more flowery and brighter designs. Now checking out Pier1. Thanks for the suggestion 🙂
Wow..It’s really an awesome idea and a great place to relax while enjoying the nature…It will be really great moments shared together with the family. The curtains hanged on the four sides also enhances the beauty and gives you privacy.
Thanks for your comment. It really is a great space to spend time with friends & family and create those memorable moments in life. Appreciate your feedback!
Thanks for the comments everyone! Sorry for not getting back sooner but my assistant had to take a leave of absence.