TAKE IT outside.

from Area Woman Magazine Apr/May '18

by Lake & Home Magazine | Area Woman Magazine

be ENTERTAINED

Longing for the warmth of relaxing in your outdoor gathering space? Just planning and anticipating the warm months can get us through the last few weeks of cold.

It’s a fact, despite our unpredictable weather, that most of us love to breathe the fresh air and relax on our deck or patio. We want to share some ideas for you to think about that will aid in creating an outdoor space that is just as comfortable as your living spaces indoors. Spring is technically here. You’ll want to start the process — now!

First, if you have a choice in where your deck or patio will be placed, consider two elements: the greatest protection from the wind and protection from direct sun. If you haven’t got a choice, consider a pergola. A pergola is an extension of a building, serving as protection for an open terrace or patio. Vertical posts or pillars that usually support crossbeams can shield you from that south and west sun exposure. Although a pergola adds to the cost, it will define the space and will serve as a striking visual addition to your outdoor space.

I love the idea of fabric awnings, as well. There’s a contempory feel to sail awnings and the fabric can be chosen to compliment the fabric on the cushions of your furniture.

You’ll want to choose furniture that will withstand our fervent winds and rain. Furniture can be one of the most expensive elements you’ll purchase and going cheap is not what you should be tempted to do. Make sure the frame is powder coated and not just spray-painted, unless you enjoy scrubbing rust off your patio. The cushions should be full of generous amounts of fill, covered in a high quality, weather resistant fabric such as Sunbrella brand. The cushions should have some weight to them as you won’t always be home to bring them inside when the wind comes up. You can have fun with color and fabrics outside. Blues, greens and oranges are popular in outdoor custom furniture and those colors are considered neutrals — green grass, blue sky and orange sun and sunset.

Determining what pieces to purchase depends on many things. First, how many people will you need seating for? Do you entertain? We typically find that people prefer their own seat, so chairs centered around an ottoman or fire pit can be a great option. The goal is to create a space that encourages conversation, so seating should be close together. When arranging your outdoor space, first determine your focal point. If you have a great view of a lake, for instance, your largest piece of furniture should face it. Other chairs should be placed next. The needs and wants are moving toward soft seating — a sectional, sofa or comfortable chairs. We love swivel rockers, both inside and outside. Consider breaking up your patio into zones. Include a dining set if your space allows. If there isn’t room for a large dining table, tuck a small round table in the corner for morning coffee or afternoon cocktails.

Everyone loves the ambiance of a fire in a gathering space. Consider a fire pit that hooks up to a propane tank just like your grill. It’s easy and clean. Of course, if you’re building, including a gas source on your patio is the way to go. There are also personal fire stands and table top fireplaces that will give you a little heat, but are more for aesthetics, creating a cozy area for two. Many fire pits will include a table top to insert when the fire pit isn’t in use.

Once you choose your furniture, ground and define the space with an outdoor rug and add some ambient lighting that will add sophistication to your oasis. The convenience and safety of today’s battery operated LED candles are the bomb. Pots full of flowers in differently sized containers are a must. Cluster them in odd numbers and give them lots of TLC. If you feel you don’t have time to care for live plants, leave them out of the plan. There’s nothing worse than dead flowers. Early spring is the time to start planning your outdoor space. Custom outdoor furniture can take up to five weeks to produce and ship and waiting until summer to shop for accessories could leave you with little to choose from, so start the process now. Planning and anticipating your outdoor living space is half the fun and will get you through the last few weeks of winter!

The team at designingwomen2 works with home and business owners to create spaces that are always more than they expected. To see more, go to designingwomen2.com