The Secrets to Creating An Outdoor Living Room
There’s a new movement in outdoor living and it’s bringing the indoors outside. When we are inside we like to enjoy the view and the natural light from the outdoors. But when we are outside, we want to bring the comfort and style from inside our homes to our outdoor spaces. In recent years, I have worked with many Up State, NY area homeowners who are looking to create outdoor living rooms. This is a far cry from a simple weather resistant dining set and umbrella. Careful thought and planning goes into designing a great outdoor space and I have a few secrets to making it a success.
Here are the decorating secrets to creating a fantastic outdoor living room:
1. Focus on designing a functional space with a consistent look. Your outdoor living room should be as cohesive as your indoor spaces. This means thinking about how you want to use the space and what type of design aesthetic you envision. Consider how many people you want to be able to seat for entertaining. What type of environment would you like to create – casual and relaxed or elegant and formal? How will this space work with adjacent areas?
2. Choose comfortable sofas, sectionals and/or seating in weather resistant fabrics. There are some fantastic options out there from great, slip-covered sectionals to wicker and rattan pieces with cushions. Think about adding ottomans or chaise lounges for maximum comfort. A professional decorator has access to quality furnishings and knows how to pull them together in ways you might never imagine.
1. Don’t forget tables. Again, consider how you want to use your space. If you’d like to enjoy snacks and cocktails in your outdoor living room, you’ll want a coffee table and side tables.
2. Accessorize! No space is complete without accessories. An outdoor rug is a must to tie your décor together. Pillows, ottomans, candles, and throws will make your space feel welcoming. And don’t forget to add some plants and flowers!
3. Use color and pattern. Feel free to go bolder here than you are comfortable doing indoors. The outdoor setting will embrace brights in a way that an indoor space cannot.
Are you ready to bring the indoors out and create an outdoor living room? Call Jean at 585-245-2611 and let’s create a space you’ll love for years to come.
