How to Design the Most Inviting Outdoor Living Space
We are finally starting to get warmer weather here in the San Francisco Bay Area. With all the time we are spending at home I am eager to get outside. I’m so thankful to have a backyard and to be able to extend our living space outdoors.
If you are extra excited about maximizing the use of your backyard this year, like I am, I’ve got 4 easy design tips you can use to create a wonderful and inviting outdoor living space from spring until fall.
Modern, neutral, layered outdoor living and dining by Memmo Interiors, photographed by Helynn Ospina.
Tip 1: Treat Your Outdoor Space Like Your Indoor Space
When it comes to designing your outdoor living space think of it like you would your indoor living spaces. How would you like to use the space? What activities do you want to do in your backyard? Maybe you want to dine al fresco or have a place to lounge while watching the kids play or, in post shelter-in-place times, entertain.
Create Zones
Divide your outdoor space into zones for the different functions such as a seating area and a dining area. If you don’t have enough space for both then prioritize based on which you’ll use more on a daily basis. You can always get versatile outdoor furniture that will work for both lounging and dining. For example, try smaller bunching tables or accent stools that can be moved around or pulled up to seating and be used as a table surface for food and drinks. Or try getting dining chairs that have comfortable seat cushions and add accent pillows to provide more comfort for longer lounging.
Warm neutrals and armless outdoor seating in this inviting patio. Credit: CB2
Create Distinct Areas with Outdoor Rugs or Different Landscaping Materials
To distinguish these zones you may use landscaping materials to create areas for seating, dining, and play. For example, the stone patio or wood deck may be reserved for the outdoor dining table while a gravel covered area may be a good place to put an outdoor sofa and chairs. Maybe you also have a grass lawn area for the kids to play. If you have a large patio or deck you can create separate areas with outdoor rugs. Outdoor rugs have come a long way. There are a wide variety of options in appealing colors and patterns. Typically, they are made of PET or polypropelene. Many are washable with a garden hose. Read care instructions carefully to determine if it is the right outdoor rug for your space.
Timeless and classic outdoor patio with outdoor friendly wicker and wood furniture. Credit: McGee & Co.
Tip 2: Pick Outdoor Friendly Materials
In outdoor furniture teak wood is thought of as the gold standard, because it is naturally resistant to the elements. However, it is good to keep in mind that teak tends to be more expensive because it lasts longer and it may gray naturally in color over time unless treated. Other outdoor friendly furniture materials include faux wicker and rattan for a more traditional look, lightweight and streamlined aluminum, and polypropylene rope woven into seating.
There are a wide variety of fabrics labeled as “performance”, some better than others for the outdoors. Not all performance fabrics are outdoor friendly so be sure to look for ones that specifically say they can be used outdoors. Generally, outdoor materials resist fading from the sun and resist water. However, that does not mean they are waterproof or indestructible. Extend the life of your outdoor furniture and decor by investing in patio furniture covers and bring cushions and pillows indoors or under cover when it rains.
Natural materials fit right into a casual and cozy outdoor covered deck. Credit: One Kings Lane
Tip 3: Accessorize!
Outdoor seating areas look pulled together, lived-in, and inviting when accessorized with accent pillows, lanterns, and garden stools or accent tables. Outdoor dining areas look comfortable and relaxed when you complete them with cushions, accent pillows, and table decor like a simple runner, plants, or candles down the center of the table.
The backyard is the place to experiment with color, pattern, or styles you may not necessarily use inside the home. Without the confines of four walls you have more visual space to be bold, mix and match patterns, or add the colorful outdoor rug and accessories you’ve been eyeing but were not sure about. It also creates a happy, relaxed feel with more personality, which we want in outdoor living spaces.
Colorful and classic outdoor covered patio. Credit: Rajni Alex Design
Neutrals and blues in outdoor living area. Credit: Emily Henderson
Black and white outdoor seating area by Memmo Interiors, photographed by Helynn Ospina.
Tip 4: Don’t Forget the Plants
You are outdoors after all. Whether you are an urban dweller or have a big backyard, placing a few potted plants on the patio or balcony relates it to nature and makes it feel welcoming and relaxed. Planters are also a really great opportunity to complement your outdoor design style and add personality, color, and texture to your space. They can also be used for creating some separation between zones if you have a smaller outdoor space or don’t want to use rugs.
Plants and greenery bring a natural touch to a deck. Credit: Studio McGee
Plants and greenery surround this outdoor oasis. Credit: West Elm
Our backyards and outdoor spaces can really extend our homes’ living space with the added benefits of soaking up all that good weather. They are private havens that deserve to be thoughtfully designed and decorated so that we can enjoy them to their utmost potential!
Happy Designing!
Rosanna
