Bring The Indoors Out – Useful Outdoor Living Spaces
As the final remnants of winter reluctantly melt away, the time has come to transform our outdoor spaces into sun-drenched sanctuaries. For the next few weeks, I’ll be channeling my inner interior designer, determined to create an outdoor oasis that rivals the comfort and coziness of our living room. After all, why should the great indoors have all the fun?
Laying the Foundation
Much like a well-designed room indoors, crafting the perfect outdoor living space requires a thoughtful approach. It’s not just about throwing a few lawn chairs and a potted plant or two and calling it a day. No, my friends, this is an undertaking that requires vision, dedication, and a healthy dose of creativity.
First things first, let’s talk about the foundation – the seating. An outdoor oasis is simply not complete without ample, comfortable spots to lounge, entertain, and soak up the sun. I’m talking oversized Adirondack chairs, plush outdoor sofas, and perhaps even a DIY pallet sofa (hey, don’t knock it ’til you try it!). The key is to choose pieces that are not only visually appealing but also built to withstand the elements. As Jenna from Jenna Burger Design suggests, “Either individual oversized Adirondack chairs or an outdoor sofa fit for two or more is a necessity for outdoor living. Load up on comfy pillows and you may never head back indoors.”
Bringing the Indoors Out
Now that we’ve got the seating situation sorted, it’s time to start infusing those indoor creature comforts into our outdoor space. After all, the whole point of this exercise is to create a seamless transition between the two, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior.
Let’s start with the all-important storage. As Jenna aptly notes, “No matter if you’re an empty nester or a family of 5, it’s essential to have a spot to store the outdoor pillows, BBQ necessities, and sand toys.” Opt for ottomans, chests, or even storage-savvy outdoor furniture to keep your space tidy and organized.
And speaking of organization, let’s not forget about those all-important layers. Much like designing a cozy living room, the key to a successful outdoor sanctuary lies in the details. Plush outdoor rugs, cozy throw blankets, and an array of decorative pillows can transform even the barest of patios into a true oasis. Jenna suggests, “An outdoor setting isn’t complete without a stylish rug. Adding a rug to a porch or patio isn’t just needed to make a space pretty, but it also provides a comfy spot to kick off the flip flops without the fear of a stubbed toe or unwanted splinter.”
Bringing the Outdoors In
Of course, no outdoor living space would be complete without a healthy dose of Mother Nature’s finest offerings. As Jenna so eloquently states, “Last but certainly not least, an outdoor oasis isn’t complete without surrounding it with greenery. Whether your favorite spot is in the sun or the shade, surround your exterior setting with lush plants and colorful flowers in varying sized pots.”
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But I have a black thumb! I can’t even keep a cactus alive, let alone an entire garden!” Fear not, my friends. The beauty of potted plants is that they require far less maintenance than their in-ground counterparts. Plus, with the wide array of low-maintenance options out there, from thriving succulents to fragrant herbs, there’s something for even the most novice of gardeners.
And if you really want to channel that indoor-outdoor vibe, why not bring a few houseplants outside for the summer? As the team at Hej Doll suggests, “The inside of my house slightly resembles a jungle, so I like my outside to do the same.” Elevate your outdoor space by incorporating lush greenery and vibrant blooms – just be sure to keep a watchful eye on those delicate divas to ensure they thrive in their new sun-drenched setting.
Hygge Meets Havana
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “All of this sounds great, but how on earth do I bring that cozy, hygge-inspired vibe to my outdoor oasis?” Well, my friends, I’m glad you asked.
As the team at Hej Doll so eloquently puts it, “Part of hygge and the indoor-outdoor living concept is that it should be celebrated with friends. Life is a celebration, and sometimes just getting together for some snacks and good wine is all it takes to revamp a summer slump.”
So, why not channel your inner island-inspired hostess and embrace the art of alfresco entertaining? Gather up some twinkling string lights, an assortment of cozy throw pillows, and a few festive lanterns, and you’ve got the makings of a backyard bash that would make even the most seasoned party planner green with envy.
And let’s not forget the all-important soundtrack. Curate a playlist of laid-back tunes that perfectly complement the vibe you’re trying to create – think tropical house, bossa nova, or perhaps even a little classic Cuban son. Top it all off with a selection of refreshing cocktails and a few tempting bites, and your outdoor oasis will be the talk of the neighborhood (in the best way possible, of course).
Bringing it All Together
As I sit here, sipping on a mojito and admiring the fruits of my labor, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. What was once a simple patio has been transformed into a veritable oasis, a space that seamlessly blends the comforts of the indoors with the beauty and tranquility of the great outdoors.
So, whether you’re looking to entertain guests in style or simply carve out a peaceful retreat for yourself, I encourage you to embrace the art of outdoor living. After all, with a little creativity and a whole lot of inspiration, the possibilities are truly endless. Who knows, you might even inspire the neighbors to follow suit and transform their own outdoor spaces into the ultimate summer oasis.