Summer is in full swing and staying socially distant is still important so it’s no surprise that we are all taking full advantage of any outdoor space we have. Whether that is a small apartment balcony, a sprawling yard and patio, or something in between, creating an outdoor space you love can make your home more enjoyable and add value to your property!
After moving into my new home here in Nashville one year ago, one of the first things I did was design and purchase furniture for my covered deck. Being able to have an outdoor space where I could relax and be multi-purpose was very important to me as I know it is for many of you! Lately, my deck has become my favorite work, reading and movie watching space in my home!
I’ve rounded up a few of the latest trends in outdoor spaces along with a few tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way – hopefully these will help you create an outdoor space you love!
U or L shapes work best when arranging your patio seating as they create an inclusive environment for you, your family, and your guests.
If your outdoor space includes a living area and a kitchen/grilling area, use an outdoor area rug to help delineate each area.
There is nothing more relaxing than the soothing sound of a water feature. If your space is small, opt for something little like a tabletop fountain or standing stone fountain. If you have a bit more room, a fountain or bird bath could do the trick.
If you and your family are big TV watchers, adding an outdoor television will ensure you use the space you’ve created more often! An outdoor TV can often come in handy when entertaining – streaming music to set the ambiance or watching sports (when they resume!). When designing this space, keep your living room in mind. Blending the outdoors with all the comforts of the indoors will give your space a luxurious feel while keeping it comfortable and user friendly!
Depending on where you live, adding a little warmth can make your patio much more comfortable. Again, which feature you choose will depend on the size of your patio, but options such as a fireplace, fire table, a propane heater, or simple candles can give your space a cozy feel. If fire is out of the question, installing string lights or smaller path lighting can create the same cozy feel.
Plants have a magical way of making a space feel like home. Incorporate plants of varying sizes to create structure and composition. Potted plants can also help delineate spaces if needed, plus, they’re low maintenance!
If your outdoor space is covered, a ceiling fan is a great way to create a breeze and help reduce the bugs from invading your space. This can help keep you and your family (or guests!) cool during those hot summer days!
If your patio isn’t covered, it may be worth looking into installing outdoor shades. Harsh sunlight can be unpleasant if you’re hosting a backyard party, grilling out, or just trying to relax. There are many types of outdoor shades you can install – learn more here!
Any type of screen can help improve your outdoor space. However, motorizing them can make them even more functional! With a click of a button you can have a space that is bug free while still enjoying the outdoors.
Homeowners are prioritizing their outdoor kitchens and living rooms, often including them as part of their renovation project.
JLS Designs was recently named one of the “Best Window Treatment Companies in Nashville” by Expertise.com.
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