Outdoor living spaces can serve so many purposes. Your deck or patio could become the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee, an al fresco home office, a gathering place for friends a family, and much more. The amount of time you spend out there, however, could be determined by how much time you’ve spent thoughtfully designing your outdoor living area. Whether you have an old-fashioned Southern front porch, a suburban patio, or a city balcony, these spaces deserve the same attention you give to your interiors. So, here are seven things you need to curate the perfect outdoor living space, according to designers.
Comfortable Seating
No matter the size of your outdoor space, having a comfortable spot to sit is essential. Lisa Brooks, principal designer at Southpark Interiors, suggests going with a modular furniture set because it will be the most versatile option. “Opt for armless chairs that can be pushed together to create a larger seating area, and include a few smaller tables or nesting tables, rather than a larger coffee table, to create a cozier conversation area,” she says.
On the other hand, if you plan to use the space mostly for meals, a dining set may be a better choice. Just make sure the chairs are plush and comfortable.
But, if you’re using your patio or deck primarily for lounging, Jodi Berger, owner and principal designer of JLA Designs, recommends adding a swing or a rocker for peak relaxation. “It adds a fun, unexpected element and enhances the serenity these outdoor spaces are all about,” she says.
Pillows
Don’t forget to accessorize with some outdoor pillows. They can easily add color and style to any of your outdoor furniture. Whether you choose small pillows to accessorize a lounge chair or large pillows that double as extra seating on the floor, they’ll make your space feel much more comfortable and inviting.
Thoughtful Lighting
It’s hard to enjoy your time outside if you can’t see anything. Katie Browning and Heather Lucas of Lucas Browning Design suggest adding café lighting around your deck or patio. “Café lights provide soft, warm illumination that invites you and your guests to spend more time outside, even after the sun goes down,” Browning says. “They create a charming, ambient glow perfect for evening gatherings.”
Alternatively, consider installing sconces on the exterior of your home if you’d prefer a more permanent installation. You can also combine light sources with a few different options, including floor lanterns and portable table lamps.
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A Fire Pit
A fire pit might sound extravagant, but it’s a great way to enjoy your patio or deck during the colder months, according to Nicole Hirsch of namesake design firm. “In our new construction homes, we always try to plan for a custom gas fire pit that sits within the seating area,” Hirsch says. “Being in New England, having a fire pit that emits lots of heat allows you to utilize your outdoor space for a much longer period of time.”
Keep in mind, you don’t need to get something custom or built-in. Amazon has plenty of affordable options that can work in smaller spaces.
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Speakers
Music can set the perfect mood for any outdoor occasion. “Invest in good quality outdoor speakers to bring your favorite tunes outside, whether you’re hosting a lively party or enjoying a quiet evening alone,” Lucas says. It’s a great way to add ambiance, especially if you live in a noisy city.
While hardwired speakers are ideal, a portable Bluetooth speaker can also get the job done at a fraction of the cost and effort.
Plants and Flowers
Even if you don’t have room for an entire garden, Brooks strongly recommends adding extra greenery and color with outdoor plants and flowers. “Get creative with your outdoor plants,” she says. “Mixing and matching pots of different shapes, sizes, and heights creates interest and allows you to bring a vignette of greenery and florals into any area of your outdoor space. Mix greenery, succulents, and regional plants to create a unique greenscape.”
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An Outdoor Rug
Want to elevate your deck or patio without taking up any extra space? An outdoor rug can work like magic. Outdoor rugs have come a long way in recent years and are more stylish and durable than ever. It’s also a fantastic way to try out a design trend, such as a scalloped edge or a specific color, into the space without entirely swapping out your furniture or cushions.
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