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You are here: Home / Home Decor / 5 Tips For Outdoor Living Spaces

5 Tips For Outdoor Living Spaces

June 15, 2023 by Scarlet

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When the summer comes, there is nothing better than sitting outside in the warm sun. Lots of people like to invite friends over for a barbecue and just kick back for the day. Before you decide to do this, make sure that you are happy with the outdoor spaces that you have. There are lots of options when it comes to outdoor living space designs, but these are going to depend on the type of house and how much room you have. Here are a few ideas for creating or improving your indoor outdoor living spaces.

Outdoor Living Space Ideas You Will Love

indoor outdoor rooms
Photo Credit: The Plan Collection

Indoor-Outdoor Rooms

Looking for indoor outdoor space ideas? According to Home Design Expert Tim Bakke, director of publishing at The Plan Collection, a pioneer of online home design plans, one of the hot spring outdoor design planning trends is indoor-outdoor rooms. He says,  “The line between indoors and outdoors blurs even more, with home designs featuring large stacked-sliding-glass-and-disappearing walls where almost the entire rear wall of a living room or Great Room can open up to a covered patio or deck for a seamless transition. At a minimum, several sliding glass doors may be lined up to give the appearance of a wall of glass without the complexity or expense of an actual disappearing wall. These open-air transition rooms are not only refreshing but significantly expand the space for entertaining.”

front porch

Your Front Porch

Nothing makes a front porch look more homey than comfortable seating. A porch swing is a popular choice. You may also enjoy some Adirondack chairs and/or rocking chairs.  Some bright cushions that go with your house colors and speak to the season are a great way of bringing cheer to your outdoor living space. 

Another pro tip for creating an inviting home space is to add a ceiling fan (or two) if you have a covered porch.  This helps keep the air circulating and makes spending time in your outdoor living space more likely.

outdoor living spaces

The Back Patio

For many people, the back patio is where they will be doing most of their outdoor entertaining when at home. To give yourself a little bit of privacy, wooden walls can be erected around the patio. You can cover these with retractable shades as well, if you want. These will help to corner off an area and give it a cozy look. Alternatively, you may prefer a garden trellis with vines growing on it to offer your backyard some private areas. Use outdoor patio furniture to create an outdoor lounge area.

Awning in the backyard by Designer Greg Natale
Awning in the backyard by Designer Greg Natale

Covered Outdoor Living Spaces

Awnings are popular with restaurants and cafes, but having one at home is a great way to create a covered outdoor living space. An awning can cover you up and give you shade and protection from the sun. They are a practical solution for sunny days. Many of them are also going to be waterproof, meaning that you do not have to worry about going inside when it rains. They are a lot more practical than umbrellas. The majority of awnings that you get will be retractable. You can buy both manual and automatically retractable awnings. Depending on how much shade you want, you will be able to adjust your awning according to your needs. Awnings also look great on the home, and can be added to windows and both the front and the back of the house.  They not only add functionality to your outdoor living space but also add style if you pick pretty colors.

pergola detached outdoor living spaces

Pergolas are a lovely way to create coverage for a backyard patio, deck, or detached outdoor living spaces. Another beautiful and functional way to create a covered living space is do so with a gazebo.  There are many options these days for cloth sided gazebos that offer (affiliate amazon link) mosquito netting and that can even be disassemble and moved at your whim.

Outdoor Living Spaces With Pool

outdoor living spaces with pool

A pool is pretty great attraction for any outdoor living space. You can make it even more attractive and enjoyable by adding chairs and end tables so people can enjoy a drink poolside. Add some bright tropical colors to your decor to make it feel like a little getaway!

Create A Personal Paradise With These Outdoor Living Area Tips

Now that you have selected your favorite outdoor living design, it is time to start transforming your backyard into a relaxing oasis with these tips. You can create your very own slice of paradise. With the help of our expert tips and tricks, you’ll be able to turn your dull backyard into a serene wonderland that you’ll never want to leave. From choosing the right furniture, to creating a beautiful landscape design, adding water features, lighting, and personal touches – we’ve got you covered. Grab a drink, sit back and relax because it’s time to transform your backyard into the ultimate retreat.

Choosing the Right Furniture

When it comes to designing your backyard oasis, choosing the right furniture is crucial. Not only should your outdoor furniture be aesthetically pleasing, but it should also be comfortable and functional. Before you start shopping, consider the size and shape of your backyard and the number of people you plan to entertain. Ultimately, the furniture you choose should reflect your personal style and create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

If you have a smaller backyard, opt for furniture that is compact but still offers ample seating space. Bistro sets, foldable tables and chairs, and modular seating are great options for a small seating area. For larger backyards, consider a sectional sofa, outdoor dining table, or a swing bed for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

When selecting furniture, also take into account the materials and its durability. Outdoor furniture is exposed to the elements, so it should be able to withstand rain, wind, and sun. Teak, cedar, and aluminum are popular options for outdoor furniture as they are resistant to weather damage. Additionally, choosing furniture with removable and washable covers can make maintenance a breeze.

Creating a Beautiful Landscape Design

When it comes to creating a relaxing oasis in your backyard, one of the most important aspects to consider is the landscape design. Expert landscaping can transform your outdoor space into a tranquil retreat, creating a sense of peace and calm that will help you unwind and recharge after a long day.

When designing your backyard landscape, it’s important to keep in mind the style of your home and your personal taste. A naturalistic design with a mix of plants and textures can create a soothing atmosphere, while a more formal design with symmetrical plantings and hardscaping can create a sense of elegance and refinement.

In addition to your plants, consider incorporating other natural elements. Pathways and seating areas will add interest and functionality to your yard. Soft garden lighting to highlight your favorite plants and trees will create an inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings. A well-placed bench or hammock can provide the perfect spot for relaxation, while a winding path can add a sense of adventure and discovery to your garden.

Adding Water Features

If you’re aiming for a truly tranquil and serene backyard oasis, incorporating water features is a great way to achieve it. The sound of water has a calming effect, and the visual appeal of a peaceful pond or cascading waterfall can elevate your backyard’s beauty and relaxation potential.

There are endless options when it comes to water features, from small fountains to elaborate koi ponds. However, before you jump in and start digging, it’s essential to consider your backyard’s size, shape, and existing landscape. For example, a small backyard may not be suitable for a large pond, but a fountain or bubbling rock can still create a soothing atmosphere.

If you decide to install a pond, it’s crucial to plan for its maintenance, as it can quickly become a breeding ground for algae and other unwanted organisms. A professional landscaper can help you design and maintain a pond that is both beautiful and manageable. Overall, adding a water feature to your backyard can enhance the ambiance and relaxation potential of your outdoor space.

Lighting: The Key to Ambiance

Once you’ve installed a water feature in your backyard, it’s time to consider lighting. The right lighting can transform your outdoor space into a relaxing retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day. It’s important to have a mix of task lighting, such as path lights and spotlights for safety, and mood lighting to set the ambiance.

Consider adding string lights or lanterns to create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night under the stars. You may also want to install a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness of your lights depending on the occasion. By incorporating lighting into your backyard oasis, you can create a space that is both functional and beautiful.

Personal Touches to Make it Your Own

While there are plenty of ideas out there for creating the perfect backyard getaway, it’s essential to put your unique stamp on the space. One way to add a personal touch to your outdoor oasis is by incorporating elements that reflect your hobbies or interests. For example, if you’re an avid gardener, you can add flower beds, planters, and trellises throughout your space. On the other hand, if you’re a fan of water features, a fountain or small pond can serve as the focal point of your backyard oasis.

Finally, adding throw pillows and blankets to your chairs and benches in your favorite colors will make it feel like home. It is also one of the best ways to create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing with family and friends. Outdoor rugs are one of my favorite outdoor living room ideas. The are a great addition because they make any space feel like an extension of your home.

Conclusion

Don’t let a small outdoor space hold you back from enjoying the outdoors. You can make the most of even the tiniest patios or balconies and create a cozy retreat on a tight budget. Transforming your backyard into a relaxing oasis doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following our easy tips and tricks, you can create a serene outdoor space that you’ll never want to leave. From choosing the right furniture to adding personal touches, your backyard can become a true paradise. Remember, the key to success is to start small and let your creativity guide you. So go ahead, take a deep breath of fresh air, and get started today. I hope you enjoyed these ideas for outdoor living space design.  What’s your favorite?

Related Posts:

DIY Outdoor Planter Boxes Tutorial- Great Patio Decor

5 Fun Backyard Summer Party Ideas For Adults

How To Get Kids To Play Outside

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Filed Under: Home Decor Tagged With: backyard, patio

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Lauren @ MomHomeGuide says

    March 28, 2017 at 3:52 pm

    I love the yellow and white striped awning outdoor living space idea — I would love to have that in my backyard!

  2. Alban says

    June 16, 2023 at 1:54 am

    Your posts are more interesting and impressive. These outdoor room ideas are really informative.

  3. Ashraful Alam Mahadi says

    June 17, 2023 at 5:47 am

    I particularly appreciated the emphasis on incorporating natural elements into the design. The suggestion to include plants, flowers, and trees not only adds beauty but also promotes a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. Furthermore, the article offers valuable advice on creating shade and privacy through the strategic placement of trees, awnings, or pergolas.

    The tip on choosing comfortable and durable furniture is another standout point. The article emphasizes the importance of selecting pieces that can withstand outdoor conditions while providing comfort for relaxation and gatherings. This practical advice helps readers make informed decisions when selecting furniture that will enhance their outdoor experience.

  4. Wajid Ali says

    June 18, 2023 at 4:32 am

    Thanks for sharing these valuable tips for outdoor living spaces. Creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor area is essential for enjoying the great outdoors. I especially appreciate the emphasis on incorporating nature, choosing durable furniture, and creating a cozy atmosphere with lighting and accessories. These tips will undoubtedly help make outdoor living spaces more enjoyable and functional for everyone.

  5. Tom says

    June 20, 2023 at 12:39 am

    Awesome one and I like always covered living space style because it was so cool and we can add anything what we want. It was a such a nice blog.

  6. Rex says

    June 20, 2023 at 3:58 am

    Really inspiring ideas. These improvements to outdoor living spaces make al fresco dining more fun!

  7. Jon says

    June 21, 2023 at 7:36 am

    Our next backyard addition will be a pergola. But after artificial turfing the yard for our pups, I’m guessing this will need to happen next year, given the cost. I like the idea of mosquito netting; they become an issue here in Canada. I never thought to have mosquito netting “curtains” we can pull around the pergola to close it off to pests. Great article. Thank you.

  8. Lulu says

    June 22, 2023 at 8:07 pm

    I love the first picture with the open pocket doors that slide all the way open. That would be a dream space to just have a large opening into the backyard. Absolutely gorgeous!

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Thanks for reading Family Focus Blog, which has been named a top family blog for parenting resources. It was created in 2010 by Nashville mom blogger, Scarlet Paolicchi. She shares tips for better family life, parenting, family fun activities, eco-friendly lifestyle, family food ideas, family travel, and home decor. Family Focus Blog has been named #3 in Cision PR’s 50 U.S. Top Mom Blog list. Scarlet Paolicchi is the author of four books.

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