Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Space

Published by: Donna Kshir
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

You can extend much usable living space to your home by bringing the outdoors in. Outdoor living spaces is the perfect space for entertaining family and friends, adding extra personal space for relaxing, as well as adding value to your home. Here are a few steps to help you create the perfect outdoor living space.

The first step and most important step in creating the perfect outdoor living space is to determine what purpose you will use your new living space for. This is related to function and comfort. Will you use your new outdoor living space for your family, meditation or entertaining? These questions are a must in order to design and create the ideal outdoor living space.

Step Two:

If you’re outdoor living space has been neglected and needs some TLC, now is the time to spruce it up. It is best to start with a fresh coat of interior paint. A fresh coat of paint on the walls will help lighten a dark and decaying porch. It is best to take in consideration a color scheme that correlates with the siding or exterior paint on your home. Popular colors include chocolate brown, sage and hunter green, grays, beiges and basic white.

As you concentrate on the walls, don't overlook the floorboards. An easy fix to a rough or decaying floor is an outdoor woven area rug, but if you have the proper funding it is a great idea to consider floor tiles, stone, or wood deck tiles. Upgrading the floor is a small detail, but it improves the living space dramatically and adds value to your home.

Step Three:

Adequate lighting is a must. Whether you are spending the evening with the family or entertaining friends late into the night, proper lightening will set the mood for a warm and comfortable living space.

Recessed lighting is always a good choice for a new space. It provides balanced lighting. Outdoor wall sconces are also a good choice. It sets the mood and also makes a great nightlight. By adding a decorative light fixture or ceiling fan in the center of the room adds character to your new living space.

Step Four:

Whether you are entertaining family or friends, finding the perfect table and chairs are a must. Round, square, expandable are all good choices. The biggest problem you will have depends on the amount of square footage your new space has to offer.

If you have a large amount of square footage it is a good idea to create "rooms" within a room. On one end of the room add an outdoor sofa or loveseat with end table tables, and maybe a few lounge chairs. On the other end of the room add a dining area or maybe create a cozy nook or computer area.. These are all functional and affordable ideas.

Step Five:

Furnishings are very important; it will set the tone for your new living space. There are many different styles and functions of outdoor furniture. The important thing is to find outdoor furniture that best fits you and your family's needs.

If you are going to spend a lot of time entertaining or dining outdoors, you are going to be surrounded by a lot of open space. If this is the case, it is a good idea to invest in window coverings to ensure privacy. Drapery panels, roll up shades and mini blinds are all good choices. They provide shielding from the sun, create privacy and add a decorative touch.

Step Six:

Make your new living space personal. Since your new living space is part of your extended home; make it personal. Add potted plants, family photographs, throw pillows, flower arrangements and art work. Decorate your new outdoor living space, as you would your indoor living space; after all, your bringing the indoors out.

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