Outdoor Decorating Tips and Solutions
Create a Beautiful Patio or Balcony by Following these Suggestions
May 24, 2009
Make the most of the warm days and balmy nights by creating a comfortable and appealing outdoor living space.
When decorating an outdoor space it’s important to treat it just as you would any indoor room. Use furniture, fabrics, pillows and accessories in the same way that you would inside. There are a wide variety of outdoor-appropriate materials, so finding items that are suitable shouldn’t be a problem.
Tips for a Cozy Outdoor Space
- Create functional seating areas with comfortable furniture that people will want to relax in.
- Lay an area rug made of a weather-resistant material. It will help define the seating area, offer a comfy element outdoors, and if you so choose, add an eye-popping colour or bold pattern.
- Upgrade old and weathered patio furniture with slipcovers in an outdoor fabric such as Sunbrella.
- Lighting is important in any outdoor entertaining area if it’s going to be used in the evenings. Use plenty of lanterns and candles. Flameless candles are widely available if the traditional style isn’t for you. Strings of tiny white lights also add a magical element to any backyard room – they’re not just for Christmas anymore!
- Consider a ceiling. A pergola draped with hanging vines is romantic, a retractable awning is practical, and 4 posts with a sheet of canvas is very budget-friendly. No matter what the budget, there is a solution for everyone. With a roof over your garden room, even the rain won’t stop you from entertaining.
- Block wind and create privacy with a lattice covered in vines, or if space allows, a large hedge. Sheer curtains and blinds can also add privacy while filtering sunlight.
- Consider a water feature. It creates a pleasing, natural sound and can help block noise from neighbors and traffic.
Basic Rules for Decorating Outdoor Rooms
Style any outdoor room in a way that’s complimentary to the style of the home. Colors, patterns, and styles should reflect what’s inside. When guests walk outside it should be a seamless transition from the indoors out. Also, use the same principals as you would for indoor decorating. Spend money on classic pieces that will last, and have a little more fun with the accessories that can be easily replaced. Trendy accessories that will go out of style, and flea market finds that may not stand up to the weather for more than one season can be great.
Natural, and natural-looking materials always work well in outdoor rooms. Bamboo, rattan, and wicker (both natural and all-weather) will blend in nicely with the natural surroundings.
Keeping it Fresh
Treat your furniture properly and it will last for many seasons to come. Store it appropriately at the end of the summer and give it a good cleaning at the beginning of each season. There are many products that can be used to lengthen the life of various materials of patio furniture, so ask for the best ones at your local hardware or garden store.
Summer is the perfect time to get outside and savor the sunshine. Whether your outdoor space is large or small, your budget huge or nonexistent, there are plenty of things you can do to create a beautiful space that will last for seasons to come.
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