Summertime is the perfect season to elevate your outdoor living and transform your outdoor area into a place where you’ll want to spend your days (and evenings) relaxing, entertaining guests, and soaking up the glory of summer. Consider these seven suggestions to help you reimagine your outdoor oasis.
Space for Every Activity
Your outdoor living area can become an extension of your home, providing you with more room for all the activities you enjoy. Map out spots for relaxation and lounging, and also dining and entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying some solitude, your space should be both functional and fabulous. Consider adding a zone farther out into the yard for croquet or cornhole to keep the party going, but also cozy spots for unwinding with a book and glass of wine.
Entertaining Considerations
The heart of any party is the area where food and drinks are served, so consider what kind of outdoor kitchen and bar area would best serve your needs. Do you prefer hosting large groups or do you entertain more intimately with a smaller collection of friends? Your preferences can dictate how this space is created. In addition, you might enjoy a designated space for crafting delicious cocktails with an under-cabinet refrigerator to keep ingredients chilled. Ready to fire up the grill? Consider adding a built-in grill or smoker with a spacious countertop for meal prep and serving guests.
Comfort is Key
The key to creating an outdoor space you’ll want to use is making it comfortable. That means finding ways to beat the heat on scorching summer days and staying cozy when temperatures begin to drop. Nobody wants to bake in the sun while sipping their morning coffee or grilling for guests. Consider adding a pergola or retractable awning to provide relief from the sun’s rays. Opt for adjustable shades that you can open and close as needed to stay cool and comfortable. As things cool off, keep the party going with the help of heat lamps, a fire pit, and cozy throws that allow you to enjoy your outdoor space long after the sun has set.
Light It Up
Built-in LED lights along walkways and under surfaces are a great option for adding illumination and safety to your outdoor space. Create a cozy ambiance (and a touch of twinkling magic) with bistro lighting strung across your outdoor space—they provide just the right amount of illumination for late-night conversation and pair beautifully with lanterns or torches for ambiance and warmth.
Craft Your Color Palette
A neutral color palette serves as the perfect canvas for adding pops of color and personality. By keeping furniture and fixtures neutral (think black, white, and tan), you’ve created a clean and sophisticated backdrop that allows your colorful accessories to truly shine. Add splashes of vibrancy with eye-catching throw pillows scattered across chairs and lounges, infusing your outdoor oasis with just the right amount of flair. Choose durable, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements.
Planting the Mood
Whether you’re aiming for a lush tropical paradise or a serene oasis, choosing the right planters and perennials is key to achieving your desired look. For a lush tropical vibe, opt for large, leafy plants like ferns, palms, and elephant ears, nestled in oversized ceramic planters or woven baskets for a touch of natural elegance. If you’re aiming for a more serene atmosphere, consider incorporating low-maintenance perennials like lavender, ornamental grasses, and hydrangeas, planted in sleek and understated containers to create a calming and inviting environment.
Accessorize with Style
When it comes to outdoor dining, don’t limit yourself to plain old plastic cups and paper plates. Make every sip feel like a special occasion by elevating your glassware. Consider bringing your indoor favorites outside—colorful tumblers for tea and lemonade, sparkling champagne flutes for catching the sunlight, and sleek wine glasses for toasting under the stars. Just be careful with breakables and keep a few sturdier options available for pool areas and younger guests.
By considering these suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to creating the ultimate outdoor oasis this summer. Need some help making your vision a reality? Reach out!