It’s a gorgeous warm day in Slummies today, the perfect backdrop for us to share some tips about creating amazing outdoor spaces!

 

The upcoming months of summer entice us to spend as much time as possible outdoors, so it’s no surprise that more and more homeowners are moving their living rooms outside. A patio is no longer just a place for occasional eating ,drinking and braaing – it’s an outdoor room and should be decorated as such, so why not do it in style?! Forget the days of folding camper chairs and ‘Skottel’ paraphernalia , the hottest trend is to transform your backyard or patio into a true extension of your home with chic furniture and design elements. With a certain coziness in mind, it’s about pulling together a cohesive collection of furniture and accessories to mimic what would be designed for an interior living room. Lucky for us, many well known furniture and home accessory manufacturers have jumped on board and created outdoor collections made to withstand the elements.

 

create an amazing outdoor space
create an amazing outdoor space

Every room begins with the floor. The use of an outdoor rug helps to define the space as a ‘room’ and not just a collection of patio furniture. Center an all-weather rug where you will be grouping your pieces.  The world of outdoor rugs has expanded greatly in the past few years, and we are now spoilt for choice by the quality and selection of colors and patterns available. Last Friday we showcased the gorgeous rugs that StylEAST is selling. These rugs are so versatile, they could easily be used indoors too.

 

StylEAST is selling these gorgeous outdoor rugs. Available in 2 designs, and 3 colourways
StylEAST is selling these gorgeous outdoor rugs. Available in 2 designs, and 3 colourways

There is so much on the market with regards to outdoor furniture- from contemporary to classical, urban chic to cape cod-there really is something out there to suit all styles. The type of furniture you go for sets the tone as to how relaxing you want your outdoor room to be as well as the function (loungey/dining room etc). Typically a sofa (or daybed), coffee table and a few chairs will provide the seating needed for a comfortable conversation area.  The furniture need not just be the typical cane or synthetic rattan, (ala-Dedon) but can be fully upholstered and oh-so-luxurious! Outdoor fabrics are available in a wide range of textures, colours and patterns, (so hot right now!) and are able to repel water, resist soiling and prohibit mildew growth.

 

outdoor space with gorgeous patterned fabrics
outdoor space with gorgeous patterned fabrics

We have highlighted in a previous blog entry how important lighting is and how it transforms a space. More than likely, you’ll be using your lovely outdoor space after the sun sets, so lighting is important to bring your festivities into the evening hours. The type of lighting will in large part be dictated by what ceiling (or lack therof) your outdoor space has. Solar-powered accent lights are not only very ‘green’ but simple to install along the edges of your “room”. Here at Styleast we are big fans of the Consol jar lights! Other options for lighting include lanterns, string  lights or else these really cool Glo balls that can be placed in or next to the pool.  (Tip: if you have a ceiling, using a pendant light!)

 

fun Glo balls, can float on the pool or be placed next to it
fun Glo balls, can float on the pool or be placed next to it

The biggest tip that we can give you to truly transform your space, is to add detail! This can be achieved by using clusters of interesting side tables for drinks or a good book as well accent scatter cushions in outdoor-friendly fabric that add a punch of color and comfort. Extra large pillows can be placed on the ground for aditional seating. A vase of flowers on the table, artwork on the walls or even  a mirror, all add detail, charm and personality and help create a great outdoor living space for entertaining guests or spending a quiet evening outdoors.

amazing outdoor space! image courtesy of SOATA
amazing outdoor space! image courtesy of SOATA

 

artwork, a pendant light fittings anrd combination of furniture really makes this outdoor space pop!
artwork, a pendant light fittings anrd combination of furniture really makes this outdoor space pop!
outdoor indoor space
outdoor indoor space