Summer is here and it’s time to make the most of these months in the sun. If you’re lucky, and your home has access to outdoor space, you can take some small steps with your furniture and design that will help you make the most of the outdoors. If you’re looking for ways to elevate your outdoor area to make it relaxing and fun for guests, you’re in the right place.
Take advantage of the natural landscape
Establishing a comfortable and beautiful outdoor space requires you to take advantages of the features of your property, no matter the size. If you have a pair of trees, you may want to hang a hammock. If you have an area in the shade, you could set up a comfortable lounge chair for reading. Take stock of your natural landscape and layout so you can assess what will work best. Even if you have a small patio, you can make the most of the space by designing it around the layout.
Establish a seating area
Comfortable and varied seating is key to setting up an outdoor area. If you have a big enough yard or deck, you can create zones for different activity types. For example, creating a spot to sit around and talk or eat with friends, a chair for sunbathing or reading, or a place to be more immersed in nature or the garden. Curating your seating areas will define the function of the space, and using chairs and couches that are comfortable and waterproof will make your life easier.
Photo credit: Randy Fath
Get creative with lighting
Even though the sun will light your back yard during the day, you’ll need to get creative with lighting for an atmospheric evening arrangement. You can use string lights to set a fun and upbeat mood, mix in torches that repel bugs, and install sconce lighting attached to your house. Because larger bright lights will attract mosquitos, depending on where you live, it’ll be best to have dimmer lights or candles scattered around. It will also allow you to create a cozy atmosphere, even on a dark evening.
Create options to get away from the sun
While it’s nice to have a back yard or deck that allows you to soak up the sun, it’s also important to have a comfortable way to escape the bright hot sun when you want to. Umbrellas, screens, and blinds will help you create shade in the mid-afternoon and also allow you to break up your space and establish zones that are used at different times, for different reasons.
Curate your natural elements and plants
Bringing the beauty of nature onto your porch or deck can help you blur the boundary between your home and the backyard. Lining the edge with flowers, small herb plants, or hanging plant pots will decorate your space in a way that harmonizes with the rest of your property.
Photo credit: Jessie McCall
Include water features and spots to cool off
If you live in an area with plenty of access to water, you may consider putting a bird bath or small fountain in your backyard to bring water and wildlife to the space. Birds, butterflies, and bees will bring life and color into your backyard and the sound of moving water can add a sense of tranquility.
Make it easy to eat
Eating outside can be unpleasant when you don’t have the right setup. In order to facilitate social events and time with family and friends, you’ll need to prioritize creating a space that’s comfortable for eating on your outdoor patio or in your back yard. A table and chair set with an umbrella can be an easy and simple way to seat guests in the sun or shade and allow you to host dinner parties on warm summer evenings.
Photo Credit: David Hunter
Rugs and textiles
Even though it’s ideal to have waterproof outdoor décor, there are ways to incorporate textiles and soft materials into your outdoor space to make it feel more comfortable and relaxing. Outdoor rugs can bring splashes of color, fun patterns, and soft surfaces to walk on. Cushioned outdoor couches and chairs can also elevate the space (just remember that you may want to store the cushions indoors overnight to avoid them getting soaked).
Firepit and night features
Your outdoor space should be designed as much for the nighttime as it is for the afternoon. By incorporating the lighting fixtures that we discussed above, you can help to make the space more accessible in the darker hours. In addition to that, installing a firepit can provide warmth, light, and a spot for s’mores. There are several options on the market today that reduce smoke and exposed flames, making them a safer choice that reduces the standard risks associated with burning a fire in the back yard.
Photo credit: Shaun Montero
Music and ambiance
Installing outdoor speakers around the deck and near any other seating areas in the yard can bring ambiance and fun, while also using sound to define the perimeter of your social space. Many manufacturers create speakers that can either be wall mounted or installed as hidden rocks or stones. You can also opt for more standard Bluetooth speakers that can be taken with you.
Games and entertainment
Setting up games like cornhole or badminton can be great for hosting if you have plenty of space. You can also install outdoor TVs if you’re looking to host guests and watch the sports game on a weekend.
Make the most of your outdoor space to enjoy the summer
There are so many options when it comes to elevating your outdoor space. Whether you have a large back yard, a small patio, or a tiny balcony, you can incorporate elements that fit your needs so you can create an outdoor area that is fun, welcoming, and gets you out of the house in the warmer months.
If you’re looking for professional help with your interior design or home renovation project, reach out to us at 5blox for a free consultation.
Photo credit: Francesca Tosolini
