Maximizing Outdoor Space
Summertime and the living is easy…but are you truly enjoying the great outdoors? Are you relaxing with a drink in your hand and breathing in the fresh air? Are you basking in the sunshine during the day, and listening to the spring peepers at night?
We spend so much time decorating and furnishing the inside of our homes that often we don’t have much left to dedicate to the areas outside of the home. Maybe being outside isn’t your thing, but if it is, and you are feeling a little lackluster in the idea department, perhaps the following tips and techniques will provide some inspiration to kick start full enjoyment of your outdoor space.
Outdoor Rugs
There is a common misconception that rugs belong inside the home. What people often don’t realize is that adding an outdoor rug to your porch can change the entire feel of the space and create a cozy atmosphere. Choose a durable fabric that is easy to clean and get creative with the patterns and colors. A little pop of porch color can wow your guests and be inviting for outdoor hang out time.
Loungy Furniture
In addition to the colorful rug, nothing says relaxation more than a comfy place to stretch your legs. Outdoor furniture can get quite pricey, so if your budget doesn’t allow for a big splurge, try local thrift stores or estate sales. Sometimes you can find great pieces that just need a little fixing up or new cushions. If you are really crafty you could make your own palette furniture.
Porch Garden
Having your own vegetable or flower garden is fantastic, but it is also time consuming and requires quite a bit of space. Unless, you utilize your porch to cultivate your greens, tomatoes, herbs, and flowers. This is especially useful if you live in an apartment and don’t have much green space, if any at all. And if you are hesitant to dig up your well-manicured lawn, this is a great alternative. Explore vertical gardens, planter boxes, and mix it up with an array of colorful pots.
River Rocks
If you are tired of replacing the mulch in your yard and garden year after year, try replacing it with durable river rocks. It will change the aesthetic of your home, creating a natural and warm feel. Initially it can be more expensive, but the maintenance level, upkeep and need to replace it decreases dramatically. If you want to step it up a notch, consider installing a small pond lined with the rocks.
Fire Pits
Fire pits can become a great centerpiece or focal point for your outdoor space. You can buy one already assembled and easy to move around, or you can build one as a permanent fixture. By adding chairs and a few side tables around the fire pit, you can create a community space that can be enjoyed year round, depending on the weather of course.
Summertime is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the warm sunshine. Many times we have outdoor space that is difficult to design because of layout and resources. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box or start your own projects. The beauty of the outdoors is it stays outside, so go ahead and give it a try!