Ready, Set, Refresh: 5 Steps to a Stunning Outdoor Living Space
NC weather in May can be unpredictable but having a functional outdoor space can be a great addition to any home. Whether you're looking to create a relaxing spot to unwind after a long day or a place to entertain guests, an outdoor area can provide the perfect solution. I had the pleasure of working with a client to refresh their space and make it functional and beautiful.
Update Upholstery:
One of the first things you should consider when updating your outdoor space is the upholstery. Weather-resistant and durable materials like Insideout, Crypton or Sunbrella fabrics are perfect for outdoor use. Updating your cushions, chairs, and even your outdoor sofa can give your space a fresh new look and make it more comfortable for lounging. Fabrics, that is where I usually start and for an outdoor space selecting a durable performance fabric is a necessity. Also, when having your seat cushions recovered, make sure you let your upholster know they will be used outside and whether they will be under a covered porch or out in the open. This all makes a difference in the type of fill that is used so that the cushions will perform and hold up for you.
InsideOut Fabric
My client has already reached out to me about how amazing the indoor/outdoor fabrics are! One of her friends spilled red wine on one of her light gray cushions, and it just wiped off - no trace of wine!
2. Update Rugs:
Just like inside, rugs bring things together grounding a space . Outdoor rugs are a great way to add color and texture to your space. Choose a rug that is weather-resistant and easy to clean. There are many different styles and patterns to choose from, so you can find one that suits your taste.
3. Add Greenery that is Faux:
If you're not much of a gardener, adding faux greenery can be a great way to add some life to your outdoor space. Faux plants and trees are available in a variety of styles and can be placed in pots or planters to create a natural look. This is a vacation home and keeping plants alive was not something they wanted to worry with so I was able to select options of plants that are native to our area and look appropriate all summer long with adding a touch of color. I understand that this is not the option for everyone, but it totally works for this space.
4. Make a Serving Area:
Creating a serving area is a great way to make your outdoor space more functional. Consider adding a small table or bar cart where you can serve drinks and snacks while entertaining guests. If space is limited, a foldable table may be a great option. In this project I selected a rolling bar cart that can be moved around and has multiple shelves. This makes a flexible serving area and also opportunity for pops of color.
5. Create Ambiance with Lighting:
My client had some twiggy trees with lights on them and I was able to pot them in nice containers, hide the cords and install an adapter to be able to turn the lights on and off via remote because the outlet was not in a convenient location. Outdoor lighting can completely transform the look and feel of your space. String lights, lanterns, and torches are all great options for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. You can also add spotlights to highlight specific areas of your yard or garden.
Updating your outdoor space can be a fun and rewarding project. By incorporating these ideas, you can create a functional and beautiful space that you'll love spending time in. I would be glad to help you get started on the transformation of your outdoor space to be more comfy and functional for all your summer get-togethers, click the button to set up a complementary call with me to see what we can do to transform your space!!
Blessings,
