Designing the Perfect Outdoor Living Room
Now that summer has arrived in Seattle, everyone seems to be outdoors soaking up the sun and taking advantage of the longer days. This means it’s the perfect time of the year to “live outside,” though many homeowners miss the opportunity to capitalize on the weather by crafting an ideal outdoor getaway. Now is the time to extend your interior style to your exterior space.Here are a few ideas to help you get started curating an outdoor living room, no matter the size of your space:
Start with a neutral base that will remain classic through every season but update the space with pops of color as the trends change. Easy items to freshen a space include colorful throws, pillows and rugs, which will make the patio more inviting.
Keep in mind that your outdoor space needs all the same elements as an indoor living space, but this area will likely serve as a dishing room as well! For idyllic alfresco dining, switch up your table settings with fresh flowers from the garden as a whimsical centerpiece, and add picnic-approved plates, napkins and flatware.
If you’re using this area for entertaining, don’t forget to include an area to set drinks on. There is a plethora of appealing coolers and rolling bar carts that make for excellent drink stations.
Stick with sturdy materials that are weather resistant such as hardwood, stone and canvas, which are easy to clean and resistant to any sudden change in the weather.
If your patio is mainly concrete or stone, make sure to add in some plant life! A boost of greenery can come from scattered potted grass, plants or trees. Your local nursery can provide insight on what will work best based on the sunlight/shade in your space.
Finally, don’t forget about lighting. Ask yourself how you’d like to see and use the space at night. Do you envision a roaring fire pit? Soft candle light? Twinkling patio lights? You could even use a chandelier to add a touch of elegance.
Want a few more ideas? Have a look at Houzz’s compilation of outdoor design ideas for even more inspiration. Happy designing!