We all want to spend as much time as we can outside during the summer months. There’s nothing quite like a relaxing summer day in the backyard with friends, hosting a barbeque or enjoying an evening under the stars around the firepit. Summer is made for chilling and breathing in the fresh air and just unwinding after a long day. So this month, ramp up your outdoor space and bring your indoor style right to your backyard.
Conduct A Purge
You want to create a calm and relaxing space. A bunch of unnecessary items will make your outdoor area one of confusion and chaos. Get rid of intentional and unintentional things that are cluttering your outdoor space.
These days, getting rid of your junk is not as hard as you might think. Apps like Offer Up are great for making things disappear.
Native Plants
Native plants are selections that are a natural fit for your area. Typically they are indigenous to the region, but some people expand the definition to include plants that were introduced at a later point, but have been around for so long that they now thrive on their own!
Add plenty of lighting
Strategically placed lighting can transform a space. Battery operated lanterns placed on tables and benches, twinkle lights wrapped around railings, and solar powered bulbs softly glowing in corners can add warmth and depth to your space.
Making the most of your outdoor space means ensuring you can enjoy it well into the evening. Good lighting makes outdoor dinners possible even when the night begins to creep up earlier and earlier.
Good lighting doesn’t have to break the bank. Affordable options for lighting abound–and those with smaller spaces have the advantage here, requiring less lights to achieve the same effect.
Incorporate a heating element for colder weather
Versatility is key here. Cold winters can lead to cabin fever, a good cure for which is spending time outside. A heating element in your outdoor space makes chilly days less likely to deter you from sitting in the sun.
Small space heaters that can do double duty in bedrooms as well as on balconies are perfect for any scenario. Those with more room may find it necessary to upgrade to a patio heater, a standing heating unit that will keep you toasty even in the dead of winter.
For those with the space, a fire pit table is the perfect focal point for a seating area and a great source of warmth and light. As a table, heater, and light source it’s an incredibly versatile piece of equipment–and who doesn’t love being able to make s’mores on demand?
Make It Multifunctional
To get the most use out of your outdoor space, make it flexible and multi-functional. Sure, it’s a place to grill hamburgers for an open-air meal, but with the right furnishings and shade protection, it might be another spot for kids to do their home schooling.
Another idea is to create a wellness corner. You can create room to roll out a yoga mat or put down a meditation cushion.
Bonus Living Spaces
More and more, people are treating their backyard spaces as an extension of their living space. From outdoor pergolas to string lights, trendy rugs and comfy, weatherproof sectionals and lounge chairs, homeowners are creating stunning open-air outdoor living spaces. You don’t even have to have a huge space, you can add smaller pieces to your deck or patio to create a relaxing, cozy sanctuary. Whatever your indoor style is, you’re sure to find similar outdoor pieces.
Small Space Solutions
There are tons of creative ways to transform a small space and make a big impact. Start with some lively décor, potted plants, outdoor pillows, candles and small scale furniture. Consider a vertical garden where you can plant your favorite herbs and vegetables. Adding string and solar lights can also help make a space feel extra cozy. And when it comes to furniture, think about a bistro set for casual dining, foldable and stackable chairs or a small loveseat and ottoman. There are tons of creative ways to make a big impact in a smaller space.
If you’re limited on outdoor space, don’t let that stop you from creating the perfect outdoor oasis. Infusing your personality and style to your backyard, balcony or back porch is the perfect way to gain more living space and enjoy a place where you can enjoy more fun in the sun all summer long.