Outdoor Living Spaces: Get ready for summer!

Published by: Francine Maglione
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

Summertime is right around the corner and that means plenty of food, friends, family and fun outdoors! Whether you have a large or small yard, a garden, a patio or a porch, there are many ways to prepare your home for outdoor summer activities. Get your outdoor living space ready for the summer with these helpful tips.

A good way to make outdoor spaces feel more comfortable and enjoyable is to think of these spaces in the same way you would think about the indoors. There are a number of non-traditional options for outdoor areas, including comfortable sofas, lounge chairs, pillows and soft fabrics. These are especially good for homeowners living in areas that don’t see a lot of rain. No one wants to have to rush outside to grab a sofa if it starts raining!

Traditional decorations are always good for front or back yards not only for comfort, but appearance as well. A cozy hammock hanging from trees, a romantic porch swing, a fire pit to sit around with friends, a screen room in which to enjoy the outdoors without insects, patios, decks and other options can offer a comfortable atmosphere. Adding end tables, benches and other objects in clusters around your property can provide perfect seating arrangements for guests having conversations.

Privacy can also be an issue in some outdoor living spaces. If you have neighbors close by or if your home is located on a busy road, you may want to consider some structures to separate your space from the rest of the block such as fences or stone walls. This Old House recommends perimeter plantings or other garden structures including a shrub fence or several deciduous or evergreen trees. Overhead structures, retractable fabric awnings and umbrellas can not only add privacy but protect guests from the sun.

For an enjoyable summer with friends and family in the great outdoors, you don’t need to leave home. Making the most of your front and back yards can create a fun and comfortable outdoor living space that everyone will love. For help creating an outdoor paradise, contact professional deck, porch, patio and landscaping contractors.

View all Home Remodeling Articles