Adding More function to Your Outdoor Space

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Clever landscaping can make the most of your deck or patio and add depth to an entire backyard area. 

Create perimeters around a pool or dining area using colorful flowers. Add a “living” backdrop for privacy and to add layers to your outdoor décor scheme. For example, using a tall hedge to create a partition between your yard and patio, or using ivy to climb a wall between two spaces. For even more privacy, plant trees or dense flowering bushes along the perimeter of your property to act as a visually-appealing “fence.”


Whether your yard is compact or sprawling, accenting pathways or traffic patterns will help segment each section of your outdoor living space. By highlighting walkways or paths that connect different areas, you’ll enhance both the function and aesthetics of your yard. For example, adding shrubs or trees to establish path borders or alternating landscape materials to differentiate textures.


A simple and affordable way to instantly spruce up your outdoor living space is to add colorful accents throughout. For example, using bright potted plants, or adding colorful outdoor curtains to decorate a space. Your current dĂŠcor scheme will dictate which colors to use, but cheery hues like aqua, orange, yellow, and bright green are excellent choices to start with.


A cozy fireplace can be the most inviting part of a home, so why not add one to your outdoor space too? Fireplaces come in a variety of sizes and designs to fit any home, or look for a small, affordable fire pit or chiminea instead. Your family will love relaxing in front of the outdoor fireplace on cool nights – almost as much as they’d love cooking together outside! An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a standalone grill for impromptu barbeques, or as awe-inspiring as a full-sized outdoor brick oven complete with seating to impress your guests.


Outdoor spaces that are easily accessible by indoor rooms are not only enticing, but are also used more often. When you’re designing a deck or patio, consider connecting a living room or master bedroom to create movement between the two spaces. You can use a partition, such as a French door or patio drapes, to allow for ample separation between the two spaces when privacy is desired.


Interior designers often use a centerpiece, like art or furniture, to begin planning the overall design and aesthetics of a room. The same principle can be applied to outdoor spaces. Try focusing on a visually-appealing or relaxing area of your backyard, such as a pond or garden, when planning your design.


A cluttered yard can have a negative effect on both the design and function of your outdoor space. For example, storing tools and appliances outside will not only expose them to the elements, it can also make items harder to find: 

Use mounted wall hooks to store tools neatly and keep them away from children.

Build an attractive outdoor shed to store large appliances like mowers or weed whackers, keeping them out of sight and sheltered from inclement weather.

Install shelves on a wall or railing to keep outdoor supplies, like charcoal lighter fluid or gardening tools, within reach.


Zoning is a great way to make the most of an outdoor space, establishing a variety of uses for one area. 

Arrange benches or tables in corners to build visual perimeters.

Hang outdoor drapery panels to create privacy between areas.

Use different textures or rugs to break up lounging or dining areas.


Outdoor Fabrics sells awnings, cushions, patio curtains, and pillows in a variety of fabrics that are designed to withstand damage from the sun or other weather. They now also manufacture custom indoor and outdoor drapery panels to your exact specifications. For a custom quote, visit https://www.outdoorfabrics.com/ or call 1-800-640-3539.


Summary This presentation provides tips and ideas for making the most of your outdoor living space, including landscaping ideas, tips for zoning, and suggestions for using patio curtains. The goal is to allow families to set up an outdoor space that is both appealing and functional.


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