H O M E S \ R E A L E S TAT E \ \
CREATING THE PERFECT OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
BY BRENDA FISHER, FREDERICK COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Outdoor entertaining is one of the best parts of summer. Sitting in your own backyard oasis, sipping a cold drink and enjoying time with friends and family is how many of us would like to spend the warm summer evenings. Creating the perfect outdoor living space to host these special nights is easier than you might think.
Here are five foolproof tips to help you turn a drab landscape into the ultimate entertaining space. 1. Declutter and clean It’s impossible to relax when dirt, debris and clutter invade your outdoor space. Lawn equipment, yard tools and children’s toys tend to collect in corners. Store these items in your garage or a backyard shed to keep them out of sight, but easily accessible. After you’ve organized the area, sweep the dirt and dust away and give it a good scrubbing. You’ll be left with a blank canvas to work with. 2. Blend your outdoor and indoor space Think of your backyard and patio as an extension of your home’s living space. This helps to create a cohesive feeling so your outdoor living space doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Make sure your indoor and outdoor décor complement one another by using coordinating colors and styles. Adding similar plants, pillows and décor items helps bring everything together. 3. Create cozy sitting areas Make sure your backyard oasis has several spots where family and friends can relax. Making your main sitting area comfortable with soft cushions and pillows on your patio 20
thefrederickguide.com
furniture. Adding a cute bench or a pair of chairs in other
iSTOCKPHOTO.COM / KATARZYNABIALASIEWICZ
By adding a few key elements, you can create a cozy and inviting space that will be the ultimate place to hang out.
iSTOCKPHOTO.COM / WESTBURY
“Whether it is an eclectic mix of rustic pieces picked up along the byways, or an area professionally designed to mirror a home’s interior, there is nothing that draws a guest or prospective buyer in more than an inviting outdoor living area,” said Frederick County Association of Realtors® President Maureen Nichols.
