Outdoor Living: 3 Easy Ways To Enhance + Enjoy Your Patio

 

You may not realize this but around this time each year, your living space has expanded by at least one room. Yes, it’s time to get outside, and outdoor spaces should offer the same kind of features and comfort that your interior rooms do. Whether it is a patio, porch, or loggia, these spaces were built for you to enjoy your piece of the great outdoors. In a congested city like ours we should not take for granted our little piece of paradise.

There are so many great ways to create your own outdoor oasis. Admittedly I have a limited knowledge of plants and flowers; I leave that kind of expertise to the skillful hands of landscape architects. But when it comes to furnishing and appointing an outdoor room, Ivy Lane can have you sitting pretty before you have time to slather on your sunscreen.

Think through how you most want to use your space. Do you want to celebrate the warm days and nights by eating al fresco? Do you want a place to kick your feet up and lounge in the sun or under the stars? What kind of lighting do you want — electric or simple candle light? Do you have any garden focal points you would like to enhance? No matter what, keep relaxed comfort and style in the forefront of your mind when developing your plan.

Here are three easy ways to enhance and enjoy your outdoor living:

Go bold with plush pillows, curtains, and cushions in weather-resistant fabrics. There are so many bright colors and prints that can be introduced outdoors. We have found that clients are often braver outside than in, so capture a seasonal color and let it shine.

 

Let there be light! You can go to a hardware store and buy twinkle lights in all shapes and sizes. There is also the romance of candlelight that can be achieved in so many fun ways, lanterns to votives.

Al fresco dining. The meals can be simple and fresh with produce and herbs from your very own garden and then served to family and friends on a beautifully set table or buffet. The table alone can be a sight to behold with interesting glass and tableware that add to character to your outdoor haven.