Learning how to transform your yard into the perfect outdoor living space is an essential part of maximizing your home's potential. An outdoor room can be the perfect addition to your home and you may be surprised to see how often your family gravitates to this area, even in the colder winter months.
An outdoor room is a perfect location to entertain guests and the addition of one to your home can make an elegant statement to your visitors. There are endless ways to set up your new outdoor living space but there are some essentials that can help you to create the perfect flow between your yard and your outdoor room. Below are some of 2017's most popular outdoor room additions to consider when creating your own relaxation sanctuary.
Williamsburg Orabelle Garden Planter
Lush Greenery with Stylish Planters
Your outdoor living space should be filled with lush greenery as it will help to portray a more seamless blend between your home and yard. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new plant and planter combinations. You can even start with a simple tabletop planter with your favorite plant. Planters can help you to accent the colors of the plants they represent or they themselves can be used as focal points.
Place a couple of uniquely colored planters throughout your yard and outdoor room and be sure that they are visible from the point of entry into your outdoor living space. This will create an illusion of uniformity and further work to create that seamless blend between home and yard that all perfect outdoor living spaces capture.
Vibrant Colors
Use vibrant colors to create a livelier atmosphere. Flowers are the perfect addition to any outdoor living space as they add both visual appeal and a pleasant odor. You may also use your planters to help increase the visual impact of your flowers by choosing planters and flowers that match.
Natural bright colors are the best choices when considering outdoor living spaces. Nature is full of bright colors and by sticking to natural tones you will continue with the smooth transition you are seeking to create between your home and yard.
Water Fountains
Water fountains are one of the best ways to transform your outdoor living space into a relaxation zone. Scientific studies have shown that the sight of water automatically creates soothing vibes in the majority of people and the sound of flowing water has a similar effect. Adding a fountain to your outdoor room is the perfect way to make a bold statement and because there are so many styles of water fountains available, you can get the perfect style to suit your needs depending on if you want to have your fountain be a centerpiece or a simply a cool addition.
A large cast stone water feature can add a luxurious and sophisticated attribute to your décor and even if you are working with smaller space requirements, a mini tiered water fountain can serve as a conversation starter as well as the neighborhood birdbath. Corner and hanging water fountains give you the ability to convert an unused area into prime living space.
Nature
One of the best ways to give your outdoor room life is to invite in some of your neighbors, in particular, the neighborhood birds. A birdbath can transform your outdoor living space into a bird watcher's dream and once you know what types of birds prefer your birdbath, you can coordinate your planters and vegetation accordingly.
You can lure particular butterflies and other types of bright colored animals and insects into your yard by the types of plants you include in your décor. You should also consider your tiny insect neighbors when deciding what plants to have in your outdoor room. Try to avoid placing plants that your local bug population eats near your seating areas.
Statues and Art Work
Statues will give your outdoor room a classical appeal and a few well-placed characters can really give your yard more life. Large statues that are well placed can help to create feelings of boldness and even the world-famous traditional "garden gnome" adds a lot to a yard with no statues.
Gnome Sweet Home Cast Stone Garden Statue
The artwork is one of the best ways to give your outdoor room life and character. You can use well-placed art to help bring your décor together and nothing is a better conversation starter than a piece of unique artwork. Sculptures can be perfect for both modern and contemporary decors, just be sure to use a theme that flows throughout your entire outdoor living space.
Fireplace
Adding a fireplace to your outdoor living space can be one of the best investments you make. Your guest will enjoy the toasty heat provided during the colder months and in areas where it gets really chilly, you will be surprised how much the addition of an outdoor fireplace helps to keep your yard enjoyable year around. In the pursuit of an enduring and delightful outdoor ambiance, it is crucial to hone the skill of sustaining a fire pit burning for long hours.
Whether you are roasting marshmallows with the kids or enjoying cool refreshments with your friends, a fireplace is an awesome way to get the most out of your time together. Fireplaces are awesome because they provide supplemental light as well as heat to your outdoor room. Additionally, fire pits can help keep mosquitoes away, creating a more comfortable and mosquito-free environment for your gatherings.
Ethanol
Thanks to advances in technology ethanol fireplaces are now more affordable than ever. Ethanol fireplaces burn clean so they don’t require you to run ventilation and they come in a huge variety of designs ranging from classical to futuristic modern. Ethanol fireplaces are odorless so you and your guest don't have to worry about smoke and because they don't require ventilation systems or chimneys to operate, they are often designed to be portable.
5 Design Tips for Your Outdoor Living Space
Elevate your outdoor experience with our expert design tips for your outdoor living space. Whether you have a cozy balcony or a sprawling backyard, creating a well-designed outdoor area enhances your quality of life.
1. Evaluate Your Space
Begin your outdoor design journey by thoroughly assessing your available space. Consider its dimensions, natural lighting patterns, and existing features. Understanding your outdoor environment's characteristics allows you to make informed design decisions, ensuring optimal use of every square foot. Whether you have a small urban balcony or a sprawling backyard, evaluating your space sets the foundation for a successful outdoor transformation.
2. Maintain a Cohesive Aesthetic
Harmony in your outdoor living space is achieved through a consistent design theme. Select a style that resonates with you, whether it's contemporary, rustic, goth or eclectic, and infuse it into every aspect of your design. From furniture choices to decor items, keeping a unified aesthetic creates visual balance and enhances the overall appeal of your outdoor retreat. Aligning your design with your home's architecture and the surrounding environment further reinforces this harmonious connection.
3. Establish Distinct Boundaries
Define your outdoor space by creating clear boundaries. Employ elements like shrubbery, low walls, or outdoor rugs to delineate different zones. Boundaries provide structure and intimacy, transforming open areas into purposeful segments for dining, lounging, or gardening. They also offer opportunities for decorative touches like trellises adorned with climbing plants or decorative screens. By establishing borders within your outdoor space, you create a sense of order and identity that enhances its functionality and aesthetics.
4. Set up Functional Areas
Efficiently utilize your outdoor area by organizing it into functional zones. Allocate specific spaces for various activities such as dining, relaxation, cooking, and recreation. Ensure that furniture and amenities are strategically placed to cater to each purpose. For instance, position your dining set adjacent to your outdoor kitchen for convenience, and carve out a cozy seating area for unwinding. The creation of these distinct functional zones ensures that your outdoor space serves a range of needs and experiences.
5. Prioritize Comfort and Relaxation
Finally, make comfort a top priority in your outdoor living space. Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture with cushions and cozy seating options. Integrate shade solutions like umbrellas or pergolas to shield from the sun's intensity. Add a unique outdoor bench, blending comfort with style for moments of tranquil enjoyment. Incorporate elements like blankets or outdoor heaters to extend your outdoor enjoyment into cooler evenings. Ensuring comfort not only enhances the overall experience but also encourages you and your guests to fully embrace the joys of outdoor living while maintaining a sense of relaxation and convenience.
How do I make my outdoor space feel cozy and more inviting?
To make your outdoor space cozy and inviting, focus on comfort and aesthetics. Invest in plush outdoor furniture with cushions and throw pillows. Add warm lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, for a welcoming atmosphere. Incorporate outdoor rugs and drapery for texture and coziness. Consider a fire pit or outdoor heater for chilly evenings. Finally, adorn your space with decorative elements like artwork, plants, and personal touches to reflect your style and make it truly inviting.
How can I improve my small outdoor space?
Maximize your small outdoor space with clever design strategies. Choose space-saving furniture like foldable chairs and tables. Utilize vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or hanging planters. Opt for multi-functional pieces like storage benches. Keep the color palette light and airy to create an illusion of space. Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and make the area seem larger. Lastly, prioritize functionality, ensuring your small outdoor space meets your specific needs, whether it's a cozy reading nook or a compact dining area.
Setting Up the Perfect Outdoor Living Space
An outdoor room is an extension of your home and by following the tips in this guide you can create the perfect outdoor room for you and your loved ones to enjoy. You will spend countless nights enjoying your new outdoor room and you may find it to be one of the most comfortable rooms in your house. Get the most out of your home and yard by creating this perfect transition space where both areas can meet and blend with elegance.