Alright, let’s be honest. Does anyone else feel like it’s been cold, gray and raining for as long as you can remember? My weather app said it would be 65 today and I honestly couldn’t remember what that even felt like! So obviously this hint of warmer weather has everyone thinking about outdoor living. Cue visions of grilled dinners and margaritas by the light of a fire...
But back to the matter at hand. Designing an outdoor living space is all about 3 things:
What is the size of the space? Are you looking at a backyard or small deck, or a multi-level deck with a built-in outdoor kitchen and fireplace to match? None of these are better or worse, but all fit into a specific style of living.
How do you like to live outside? Do you cook, grill and essentially reside outside? Or do you just grill occasionally before heading back in to eat? Do you like to share a glass of wine or beverage by a fire pit or outdoor fireplace to close out the day?
How do you like to entertain? Inside, outside, or what I call semi-outside, which is a screened-in space. Be honest with yourself- Do bugs bother you?
Taking a minute to answer the above questions will give you a much clearer idea of the kind of space you’re looking for. Just thinking about the space and how you or your family would best use it starts you down the path of ideas and dreams of what it will look like when it’s finished.
When it comes to finishing touches, entertaining outside is a lot like inside. You need great seating, lighting to match and a way to serve or create food and drink for friends and family. And seating is all about design and style, color and comfort, and your own personal dream.
This is your chance to make this summer better than any other. If you live in the South like I do, then you know that getting this outdoor entertaining right is the ticket to a fantastic season.