CREATING AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

CREATE AN INVITING OUTDOOR SPACE

Story by KRISTEN BOYETT, Interior Designer, Lott’s Furniture kboyette@lottsfurniture.com / 912-283-6350 Photography by JOY SUMNER PHOTOGRAPHY

As an interior designer, my work tends to focus on interior spaces: living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, etc. But as the weather warms up and we lean into the spring season, I’m eager to spread that focus to those “rooms” just outside the home. Our exterior spaces, whether that means a porch, patio, pool deck, or just a corner of our yard, deserve unique attention and thoughtfulness so that we can enjoy them to their full potential. Fresh air and relaxation await you, and with these simple tips, designing an outdoor space that feels like an extension of your home can be a breeze.

Just like with an indoor room, furniture selection and layout is the biggest key in creating an outdoor space that functions

for your lifestyle. Consider how you’d like to use the space: your outdoor sitting area may focus around a TV, fi replace, or view. Maximize your seating arrangement with an outdoor sectional or pair of sofas if space allows (you’ll enjoy being able to lie down and stretch out!). Incorporating side chairs that can be angled in, or better yet, swivel chairs, will o er even more seating and are easy enough to move around and re-locate to accommodate a crowd. And don’t forget the tables! A variety of table sizes including co ee tables, end tables, and accent tables will provide plenty of places to rest beverages, appetizers, necessities like citronella candles, and any tabletop décor. Dine alfresco with the addition of an outdoor table and chairs. Choose a size that fi ts the space with enough room for the chairs to easily push out from the table. If room allows, a table close by to act as a server or sideboard comes in handy when entertaining. This presents extra surface space for a spread of side dishes and “fi xins,” as well as storage for your dinnerware — whether that’s fi ne china or the classic paper plate is up to you!

Materials, textures, and layers will give your outdoor space the perfect blend of practicality and aesthetics. Outdoor materials are proven to wear well, but it’s always important to consider the elements your space will be exposed to, such as direct sunlight, precipitation, humidity, salt air, etc. Outdoor furniture is made of heavy-duty and weather-friendly woods, metals, and poly/ resin materials, while cushion and pillow fabrics are performance blends of polypropylene,

Elevate your beverage station by utilizing a stylish tiered bar cart. The easy access to glasses, bottles, pitchers, and mixers will help your guests feel welcome to serve themselves.

olefi n, or acrylic. Durability meets style, with furniture options ranging from traditional to modern, and everything in between.

When it comes to the design of your outdoor space, choose pieces that compliment your home and feel cohesive with what’s going on inside. Sticking with a color palette that fl ows seamlessly from the inside out will make your home feel larger. Neutral bones with intentional pops of color work well, but don’t miss the opportunity to infuse pattern, personality, and fun into your space with the use of accent pillows, rugs, and unique accessories. Think textural woven baskets and trays, interesting planters and pots, and oversized lanterns (perfect for nestling into corners where cozy, candlelit ambiance is welcomed). Art and mirrors are the fi nishing touches to your wall space and break up the hard edges of exterior wood and brick. Finally, pull it all together with a beautiful outdoor rug to ground and soften the space.

It’s a fact that a daily dose of fresh air o ers

positive health benefi ts. It reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, strengthens immunity, and increases serotonin. It truly feels good for the soul, especially after the cold, damp winter months, to venture outside and soak up the sunshine, sounds, smells, and blooms of your own outdoor sanctuary. This season, I hope you feel inspired to bring the indoors out and create a space that you can enjoy year-round. OL