by Jill Ragan Scully
After the year we have all had, we have learned to appreciate the ability to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. Everyone should have a beautiful outdoor living space where they can escape on lovely days. Right now is a great time to create a beautiful new outdoor living space so when you are ready, you can show it off and entertain all of your family and friends. I will share a few tips to create the perfect outdoor living spaces for entertaining and quiet, relaxing getaways at your own home.
Step 1: Carefully Consider How the Space will be Used
Outdoor spaces can be used for so much, from morning coffee to reading a book during the day to entertaining at night. Take a minute and imagine your outdoor dream space. Ask yourself what you would want to be able to use it for. There are so many different uses of outdoor space, so it is essential to know what they will be for you.
Step 2: Start Layering from the Ground Up
Outdoor spaces are not so different from indoor ones. Think of your outdoor space as your interior living room. A great place to start is to use the idea of layering a room from the ground up. Start with a rug, then add the furniture, and then last but not least bring in some accessories.
Step 3: Opt for Durable Outdoor Furniture
It is a great idea to think of your outdoor spaces like your interior ones but with a few considerations- furniture for outside needs to be durable and ready to take on the outdoor elements. When selecting outdoor furniture consider pieces made from aluminum, wicker, jute, rattan, or steel. Woods can also be a good option like teak or cypress. Purchasing quality furniture that will withstand the wear and tear of the outdoors will be worth the investment.
Step 4: Pick Performance Fabrics for Quality and Comfort
Now that you have the furniture taken care of, it’s time to think about the textiles. Outdoor spaces should be comfortable, so it’s essential to incorporate cushions, pillows, rugs, and outdoor blankets. It is important to be aware of the fabrics you select for your outdoor cushions and pillows so that they are durable and do not fade. Sunbrella and Tempotest fabrics are both excellent options for your outdoor pillows and cushions because of their fade-resistant and UV protection technology. They are also easy to clean and mold and mildew resistant.
Step 5: Add Some Naturally Beautiful Finishing Touches
To tie your whole outdoor space together, you must add some accessories. This can be the fun part of your outdoor project where you can get creative too. Try adding some fresh-cut flowers from the garden in a delightful vase or decorate with some fun art pieces. If you love to entertain, a bar cart can bring a little extra to your outdoor space while also being convenient. Think back to what you imagined your perfect outdoor space to be and finalize your design with whatever you think will complete it.
Ready for an outdoor space that spoils you silly? Contact us and we’d be delighted to help!
Jill Ragan Scully is a nationally known interior designer based in Hastings, Minnesota.
Visit her website at www.ImpressiveWindowsandInteriors.com or contact her directly at 651-437-5512 to set up an appointment in her showroom.
View this blog post on her website at: https://bit.ly/3e05qZ7