People often talk about bringing the outdoors in when decorating their homes. They incorporate plants, wood, and other natural features into their decor. However, very few people talk about bringing the indoors outside. Why?
Having a welcoming outdoor space will encourage people to visit and increase the value of the home. It will also become a gathering place for family and friends while expanding the home’s living space. How can a homeowner create a space that achieves these goals?
Many people purchase outdoor furniture St. Louis and think their work is done. However, they need to go beyond putting out some seats and tables to make people feel comfortable and welcome. The following tips will help make this space an extension of the home’s interior.
Add a Gazebo or Pergola
Install a gazebo or pergola in the backyard to provide a year-round space where people can congregate. Add colorful curtains or breathtaking shades to cover the structure on hot summer days or when the wind and rain pick up. Consider adding an arch or trellis to this outdoor room so people feel like they are entering a wonderful place.
Install a Deck or Patio
Decks and patios are other ways to increase a home’s living space. Many people place the deck or patio adjacent to the house so guests can transition seamlessly from the interior to the exterior. A platform deck typically sits low to the ground and is easy to access. Those who select this option must treat the materials for direct ground exposure. Without this treatment, they may rot and decay.
Raised and tiered decks are often adjacent to the home, much like platform decks. This option is best if the ground has different levels, as the deck can follow the ground’s contours. Raised decks need safety features like railing to protect users from harm. Floating decks might be the solution homeowners are looking for because they can be installed anywhere on the property.
Lighting the Area
Add exterior lights to maximize the use of the outdoor living space. Candles are a simple solution, and many homeowners already have them. Nevertheless, people may worry that they are a fire hazard. Don’t rely on spotlights and floodlights for illumination because they are incredibly bright. They help keep intruders away, but homeowners don’t want them keeping guests away too.
As with the home’s interior, the outdoor lighting scheme should incorporate the three main types of lighting. Ambient lighting illuminates the area, but it won’t be as bright as security lighting. Low levels of lighting are best, so look into overhead string lights.
Tiki torches or an outdoor chandelier will add style to the area. Look into dimmable lights so the same fixture can serve multiple purposes. Pathway and staircase lights keep family and friends safe while adding to the ambiance, and many homeowners opt for solar lights to save on their energy bills while protecting the planet.
These are only a few ways homeowners can furnish their outdoor living space. Some people may want to add outdoor rugs and throw pillows, while others might wish to incorporate an outdoor kitchen. Regardless of which route a person chooses, they need comfortable seating for guests so they want to sit and stay a while. The outdoor living space is more enjoyable when filled with loved ones regularly.