There has been a rising trend of Americans paying more attention to their outdoor spaces and getting more out of them. This is a positive thing, as the patio and yard can be a blank canvas with which to create a masterpiece. No matter what you intend to use space for, a good, consistent design and atmosphere can make it more enjoyable for both yourself and visitors.
For a simple, modern design, you probably want to keep the color palette confined to one or two colors, especially if your home is a lighter color. A white and gray design can be very sleek and unassuming, and contrasts nicely with the greens and browns of the yard. This design works very well for coastal homes as well.
If you would rather have something with more personality, you might opt for brighter, hotter colors to accent the main pieces. In these cases, less is usually more. To avoid an overwhelming explosion of color, you can try to limit the accents to small pieces, such as lighting or cushions. This can be warm and appealing without being distracting.
Still others prefer something more earthy. Natural wood and wicker pieces can be a wonderful complement to a wooden deck. The look will also blend especially well with a yard that features lots of bushes and trees in the landscaping. The soft, earthy tones are usually very relaxing.
For something really eye-catching, especially if you live in a coastal area, you can choose a bright, island theme. Tropical plants and art can be used to compliment bright plastic furniture.
However, before you rush into buying big pieces of furniture, you will want to decide on what the outdoor space will be used for. If you plan on having gatherings with lots of people and food, you will definitely need areas for cooking and eating. A table and ample seating will be required. But if you have a smaller area that you would rather use for relaxing and conversing with small groups, some comfortable seating -a few chairs, a sofa, perhaps even a hammock- are all you might need. A fire pit can be a great place to relax with loved ones. If you have a larger area, you might be able to fit a little of everything in. Shade is also a must for those hot summer days. Umbrellas, either freestanding or table-mounted are good choice if your home lacks an awning. You could also string up a fabric canopy.
You can also make design decisions based on your location. For instance, in a neighborhood where the homes are separated by wide open space, you might want to take advantage of the open feel by not obstructing the view. But if you live in an area deeper in town with more densely-packed properties, you might instead want some privacy. You can achieve this by putting up a tall wooden fence. In some areas, you might even be able to have your barbecue close to the edge, with cooking items suspended on the fence itself by shelves or hooks.
No matter what you choose to do with your outdoor space, just be sure to create a look that says something about your style and tastes. If you design the right way, you can infuse an outdoor space with as much personality as any room inside your home.
For a simple, modern design, you probably want to keep the color palette confined to one or two colors, especially if your home is a lighter color. A white and gray design can be very sleek and unassuming, and contrasts nicely with the greens and browns of the yard. This design works very well for coastal homes as well.
If you would rather have something with more personality, you might opt for brighter, hotter colors to accent the main pieces. In these cases, less is usually more. To avoid an overwhelming explosion of color, you can try to limit the accents to small pieces, such as lighting or cushions. This can be warm and appealing without being distracting.
Still others prefer something more earthy. Natural wood and wicker pieces can be a wonderful complement to a wooden deck. The look will also blend especially well with a yard that features lots of bushes and trees in the landscaping. The soft, earthy tones are usually very relaxing.
For something really eye-catching, especially if you live in a coastal area, you can choose a bright, island theme. Tropical plants and art can be used to compliment bright plastic furniture.
However, before you rush into buying big pieces of furniture, you will want to decide on what the outdoor space will be used for. If you plan on having gatherings with lots of people and food, you will definitely need areas for cooking and eating. A table and ample seating will be required. But if you have a smaller area that you would rather use for relaxing and conversing with small groups, some comfortable seating -a few chairs, a sofa, perhaps even a hammock- are all you might need. A fire pit can be a great place to relax with loved ones. If you have a larger area, you might be able to fit a little of everything in. Shade is also a must for those hot summer days. Umbrellas, either freestanding or table-mounted are good choice if your home lacks an awning. You could also string up a fabric canopy.
You can also make design decisions based on your location. For instance, in a neighborhood where the homes are separated by wide open space, you might want to take advantage of the open feel by not obstructing the view. But if you live in an area deeper in town with more densely-packed properties, you might instead want some privacy. You can achieve this by putting up a tall wooden fence. In some areas, you might even be able to have your barbecue close to the edge, with cooking items suspended on the fence itself by shelves or hooks.
No matter what you choose to do with your outdoor space, just be sure to create a look that says something about your style and tastes. If you design the right way, you can infuse an outdoor space with as much personality as any room inside your home.
About the Author:
Design on a budget can be difficult, but it's certainly possible. For the highest-qualitybrands of Patio Furniture at prices that can't be beat, be sure to try InsideOutFurnitureDirect.com.
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