Yes, the summer days are waning, but there’s still plenty of time to reimagine your outdoor space. With more reasons than ever to enjoy the fresh air on our properties, many homeowners are looking at the perfect patio and deck set-ups. Whether you’re working with an established space or creating something from scratch, here are a few tips to design the perfect outdoor area:

Begin with a Clean Up

A thorough cleaning is the best place to start with your outdoor setup. If you have a patio with a tile floor, giving it a good scrub can make it feel like new. If you’re setting up a deck, maybe some new stain or paint can help breathe some life back into dull wood. Even if you’re making your own seating area in the middle of your lawn, cleaning up any sticks or debris that may have blown in will give you a clean canvas to work with.

Update Linens and Textiles

This is also a good time to think about furnishings. While the furniture itself may benefit from a quick scrub or spay with the hose, it’s important to think about your linens and textiles as well. Do you keep pillows that you keep outside for more comfortable lounging? What about blankets for chillier nights? Throwing these all in the wash to refresh them can help create a space that feels light and airy. If you want to change the style or add some additional elements, browsing for items now means you’ll have exactly what you want by the time you’re ready to enjoy your space.

Anchor The Space

A favorable option among homeowners is to define the space and make it feel like an extension of your home. Maybe you lay down tiles or add some pebbles or stones to create a patio space in your yard, or maybe you add an outdoor carpet that ties everything together. Blocking off the area with some tiki torches and adding some string lights can also help to define the space.

Focus On Comfort

The primary goal for most outdoor spaces is comfort. You’ll want to be strategic with the layout. Circles often make for comfortable seating, and adding something like a small fire-pit in the center can really enhance the level of comfort.

 

If you have any additional questions about these ideas, or you need recommendations for local handymen or contractors, please reach out. I’m always happy to help.