Interior designers are always trying to extend the usable space in a home which is why trends are moving to outdoor living areas. These rooms combine patio furniture with outdoor fireplaces to create a welcoming and warm environment. Patios have come a long way. Yesteryear’s flimsy outdoor furniture has been replaced with sturdy and quality-designed tables and chairs.
Benches
Consider outfitting your space with a patio bench. It can serve as the outdoor equivalent of a sofa. This seats a lot of people and has a range of uses. During the summer you can use it as-is, but in the winter add some weather-resistant throw pillows to add a soft, plush sitting area.
Chairs
Just as you would frame your living room with a large couch and single-person chairs, do the same for your outdoor living space. Again, add weather-proof linens to make the seats cozier.
Tables
There are a variety of table options from which to choose. You can get one large surface to fit everyone in the room, or you can make little lounge areas where each bench or chair has its own small coffee table.
Fireplaces
No outdoor living area is complete without a fireplace, especially for those who live in cold-weather regions. Choose one from the range of styles of outdoor fireplaces. There are chic freestanding models that you can move from spot to spot as well as wall mount fireplaces. You’ll definitely use it outside, but you can also bring it into your living room when you need a bit of extra warmth.
Extra tips
Consider creating this outdoor room on a paved surface. Additionally, if you have the space, install a large canopy directly connected to your home. This will help close off the space to protect it against rain and snowfall, in addition to making it feel more like a room.
If you want to add a bit of extra charm to your outdoor area, consider incorporating these eclectic tips.
- Add panels – Panels are a nice touch in any room, and they’ll help add a bit of originality to your outdoor living area. Add some partitions behind your patio furniture. For example, a gold gilded screen adds color and texture to your space. You can also place an antique-inspired mirror room screen to add privacy to your backyard if you don’t have a tall gate.
- Mix and match furniture – Matching furniture always looks great, but mixing up different pieces is also a stylish choice. Choose patterns and colors that complement one another for a creative, worldly vibe.
- Incorporate accessories – Some people forget to add accessories to their outdoor living space. Place a container near the base of a sofa to store some items and incorporate extra style. You can also bring in artwork like sculptures to convey your personal aesthetic. Additionally, patterned blankets add layers of style to the room while allowing guests to be comfortable and warm. Just drape the linens over your outdoor sofa when they are not in use. Lay a few stylish all-weather outdoor rugs beneath your furnishings to add visual and tactile appeal.
- Bring in a fireplace – There are numerous styles of outdoor fireplaces that you can add to your patio space. Some offer a bonfire-type look and others have a contemporary design. Choose one that fits your style aesthetic. Consider an indoor-outdoor model if you’d like the flexibility of moving your fireplace from your patio to your living room.
Photo Credits
- Skargaarden
- EcoSmart Fire