Spruce Up Your Outdoor Spaces For Summer With these Pro Tips
Summer is basically here [at least in Austin, Texas] and as the weather gets warmer, it’s time to refresh or upgrade your outdoor space.
A good rule of thumb is to work with what you already have and make meaningful additions and improvements. Whether you have a balcony, deck, patio, porch, or backyard we have tips so you can make the most of your space.
Deep Clean and Define the Space
First things first. Before you do anything, you’ll want to make sure you deep clean the area. For those with a backyard that means freshening up your lawn and taking care of any overgrown plants. It’s a smart decision to power wash your deck or patio. You’ll be shocked how big of a difference a solid cleaning can make.
Before you start decorating, you’ll also want to decide how you want to use the area. Will it be for alfresco dining? Entertaining? Lounging? Playing? Once you have your priorities set, you can then determine how to define the space so that it’ll fit your needs and function for you and your family.
Select a Color Pallet
Before you start shopping, you’ll want to figure out what color pallet you like for your outdoor space. Browse Pinterest and Houzz for ideas. Your outdoor space should be an extension of your indoor space, so the aesthetic you have inside should flow and make sense outside as well.
When in doubt, select a more neutral color scheme. Typically there is already more color in an outdoor space from existing plants and scenery etc, so you don’t want to go overboard with too much decorative color.
Think Durable, Durable, Durable
When selecting furniture, durability should be a top priority. You’ll want to choose materials that are sun and weather-resistant and that are made specifically for outdoor use.
Some of our favorite performance fabrics are Perennials and Sunbrella. Perennials offer a wide selection of beautiful outdoor fabrics, rugs, pillows, and throws. Their fabrics are fade-resistant, mildew, and mold-resistant, and are super easy to maintain and clean.
Sunbrella offers a range of outdoor fabrics including cushions, pillows, upholstery, awnings, umbrellas, and more. Their fabrics are not only stunning but are also easy to clean, stain and fade-resistant, mold and weather resistant.
Choose Materials Carefully
Not only do you want to consider durability, but you’ll want to think about the placement and use of your furniture. For example, you may want to get a metal table for its clean cool aesthetic and durability, metal furniture normally goes great outdoors. However, if it’s going to be in direct sunlight and there is no fabric or cushioning it’ll get super hot.
Some nice furniture options we love are stone or concrete tables, teak wood furniture, and rattan woven chairs. These types of pieces are all currently on-trend but also have a timeless quality and will last for years to come. They all look great outdoors and add some nice textural elements to the space.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match your furniture, like a dining table with a selection of different coordinating chairs, it’s a great way to add some interest to the space and liven it up!
Utilize Vertical Space
Remember to think about how you can make use of vertical space outside. Especially if your outdoor space is smaller, you can make it feel bigger by utilizing your vertical space smartly.
Think about creating shade where there may be too much sun with curtains, a cabana, an awning, or an umbrella.
PHOTO CREDIT: FRONT GATE WEBSITE
Don’t Forget Lighting
Lighting can be easy to overlook, but if you want to use your outdoor space from daytime into the evening, you’ll want to make sure you have the outdoor lighting covered.
Think about integrating some lanterns, torches, solar lights, or string lights into your decor. Hanging lights is also a great way to make use of your vertical space.
Check out, Apartment Therapy for some great outdoor lighting and string light recommendations.
Incorporate Plants and Greenery
Especially if you have a lot of neutral tones in the furnishings, adding plants is a great way to introduce some color and more texture to the space.
Depending on the amount of room available, there are many ways you can introduce plants into the space. Potted plants, hanging plants, climbing plants, and wall planters are all good options. Hanging plants are also a smart way to utilize your vertical space well.
Refresh Cushions and Accents
If you already have outdoor furniture that’s in good condition, an easy way to refresh or update it is with some new removable cushions. Refreshing your other accents can also go a long way in making the space look updated. Bring in throw pillows, throw blankets, and other textiles like area rugs to add some interesting texture and elevate the look.
For more inspiration, House Beautiful has a great range of patio ideas for all different styles.
If you’re still daunted by the task of taking this on yourself, I’m happy to help! Contact us for a consultation.