JULY 2018
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Summer Lovin’ Outdoor DÊcor!
Aren’t we lucky to live in Southern California where the weather is always beautiful? That being said, you should consider outdoor space an extension of your home-and it should look and feel like it! Taking advantage of outdoor space, whether big or small, not only increases your living area but can also give you the feeling of being on vacation . . . and couldn’t we all use a little extra vacation time?! Now that summer is upon us, it’s the perfect time to take another look at your outside space. You probably can’t increase the size of your property, however, you can make the most of what you have. So take a walk, check out your patio, the front porch, balcony, your backyard, the deck and even the area around your pool. Any of these can be turned into a space with a specific purpose and into an outdoor oasis. Once you’ve identified your new “stay-cation� space, furnish it in a way to compliment the inside of your home. Select a style and colors that coordinate for a pleasing visual flow. Depending on how large an area you have, both a sitting / conversation area with a separate spot to eat is ideal. A sofa or sectional and club or lounge chairs are all good choices. Don’t forget to add weather resistant cushions and throw pillows for comfort, style and a pop of color. A place to eat is important too because food always tastes better when you eat outside! For a casual look, consider using miss-matched chairs of the same color for a casual, eclectic look. If your space is limited such as on a balcony or perhaps a small front porch, don’t worry. You still have enough space to create a cozy spot for outdoor enjoyment. Just because an area is small doesn’t mean it can’t be large on style! Start with a couple comfortable chairs and a small table between. If you have room for ottomans, that’s great as they can be used for feet and as extra seating. Add an area rug, floor lamp, maybe a plant or two and viola . . . you have a cozy spot to relax and read the newest summer novel!
JULY 2018
PAGE 35 email Rita@TheRoomArranger.com or by attending her monthly decorating classes at Hobby Lobby. Contact Rita or access the Temecula store website for additional class information.
Your outdoor decor should include finishing touches just like the inside of your home . . . and they don’t have to cost a lot of money. If you have bags of seashells you collected at the beach it’s time to make use of them. Get out your glue gun and attach the shells to picture frames, covering the frame completely. Strategically hang on the fence around your pool... so cute! If you still have leftover shells, arrange them in clear containers and use as tabletop décor. When nighttime rolls around, it doesn’t mean you have to go inside. Don’t hesitate to add both task and decorative lighting as part of your outdoor décor. Use table and floor lamps for overall lighting, then to add ambience, string tiny white lights in or around trees on fences or the railing of your balcony. Path lighting along sidewalks and or spotlights highlighting plants add another level of interest. If you’re up for an easy DIY project, try this . . . find an outdated chandelier and after removing all electrical components, spray paint it, add pillar candles and hang over your outdoor dining table. It’s inexpensive, fun to do, it adds an element of the unexpected and it looks great! I wish for you a fabulous summer and hope you find some underutilized outdoor space, large or small, and discover ways to turn it into the perfect summer get-away. Until next month . . . happy home re-decorating! Temecula resident Rita Wood, The Room Arranger has been a certified member of the Interior Redecorators Network since 1999. Her specialty is helping clients transform their home using the furniture and accessories they already own and love. Learn more about Rita and how she can refresh your home by visiting her website www.TheRoomArranger.com, contacting her at 315-481-9659,