July 15, 2014. Updated July 2021.
Now that we're in the midst of summer, it’s a great time to put together a functional outdoor space such as a patio or a deck for your family and guests. Here are some tips for setting up your outdoor space for year-round use or updating it with an exciting new centerpiece.
Set Up Your Outdoor Space
This year, outdoor living rooms and outdoor kitchens have become big trends for homes. With the technological advances of low-voltage lighting systems and softer weather-resistant fabrics, the outdoor living room is now a more comfortable and more inviting space. Outdoor kitchens are growing in popularity with the improvement of appliances and finishes that can survive in the elements. Both of these spaces are great for combining the coziness of their indoor counterparts with the openness of the outdoors.
Protect your Patio
When you put together your outdoor space, remember to think about how you’re going to use it throughout the seasons. At an outdoor get-together, there’s nothing worse than a surprise spring shower to rain on the fun or trying to sit on patio furniture that has been baking in the summer sun. Consider using patio umbrellas, pergolas, or coverings to make shade and protection for your space.
Seat Every Guest
Create comfort with patio furniture, like sofas, chairs, and ottomans to fill your space. On average, how many guests would you entertain at one time? Think about ample seating for your living area and your dining area, and remember to choose the furniture that endures the best in your particular area of the world.
Add Ambiance and Set a Mood
Don’t forget to add ambiance to your outdoor space. Create an atmosphere that is warm and inviting. Fire pits, fire bowls, and fire spheres are great at creating ambiance, and they’re usable during the daytime and the evening. Keep them as they are while the sun is out, and you have a focal point that can command everyone’s attention. Get a fire going in the evening, and you’ll transform your fire pit as well as your space. You can also add warmth to cool summer nights and the chilly winters with a fire pit.
Light Up Your Nights
Finish off your outdoor space with lights. Lighting in your space is the perfect touch to creating an area functional during the evening. Imagine hosting a dinner party in the fresh air or even relaxing in the outdoor space after dining. You can use outdoor lamps, garden lights, or, if you have a patio covering, you can hang string lights across the ceiling to really illuminate the space. Lights allow you to see one another and set the mood and ambiance of your space.
Are you ready to enjoy and entertain with your own ambient outdoor space?
Tell us about your favorite time to entertain outdoors in the comment section below and share your ideas with us on social media.
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