5 Ways to Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Space

Outdoor Dining

Creating a captivating outdoor dining space requires a thoughtful approach to both function and aesthetics. When designing your alfresco entertaining area, consider the natural flow of movement around the space. Incorporate layers of lighting to create ambiance that transitions seamlessly from day to evening gatherings.

Perfect Porches and Spectacular Verandas

Porches and verandas create connection to the world outside, especially with immediate neighbors. A welcoming porch creates an inviting transition between indoors and out. Anchor the space with weather-resistant furniture in natural materials like wicker or teak. Depth can be added through layered textiles—outdoor pillows and a durable rug underfoot. Strategic plantings in varied heights create visual interest, while sconces or landscape lights extend enjoyment into evening hours. Consider seasonal decorative touches that celebrate the changing calendar while maintaining a cohesive look that complements the home's exterior.

Cozy Up

To transform a small balcony or deck into a relaxing retreat, go big. Although seemingly counter-intuitive, a large sofa delivers as much seating as three chairs but creates less visual clutter, tricking the eye into thinking the space is bigger than it is. Double-duty decor like an ottoman and a side table that holds a lamp can make even the smallest outdoor space into a cozy nook.

Naturally Relaxing

The outdoors is where nature’s beauty lives. Let the harmony of nature blend seamlessly into your space with natural materials like handblown glass, handcrafted finishes and artisan quality. Materials like woven jute, seeded glass, and rattan brings your outdoor living space even closer to nature.

1. Dine fine

If you’re among the 47% of Americans who entertain outdoors at least once a month, make this the year to take things up a notch. In this beautiful outdoor dining area, guests are seated at a rustic chic table and chairs with a mid-century modern vibe. Overhead, the Morelle 5 light chandelier adds a modern touch with an x-frame style, clean lines and a black and faux Bamboo wood finish. Morelle provides warm ambiance and functionality to this outdoor space and with the firepit steps away, your guests are sure stay cozy.

2. Time travel

Past generations were into front porches and now we are too, having discovered the connection that a space like this creates to the world outside, especially in our immediate neighborhoods. With its showstopper wainscot ceiling, comfy woven furniture and industrial-inspired Ahrendale LED outdoor ceiling fan this front porch rolls out the welcome mat in style.

3. Cozy up

To transform a small balcony or deck into a relaxing retreat, go big. Although seemingly counter-intuitive, this space shows how well the concept works. A large sofa delivers as much seating as three chairs but creates less visual clutter, tricking the eye into thinking the space is bigger than it is. Double-duty decor like an ottoman (for feet or seat) and a Montego portable LED lantern, with a built-in BlueTooth® speaker that syncs music from compatible devices, fit the “less is more” strategy.

4. Naturally Relaxing

Dramatic tent draping, exotic teak furniture and kilim accent pillows infuse this patio with global intrigue, especially at night when illuminated by pendant lights with natural wicker shades in interesting shapes.