A Practical Guide to Extending your Living Space Outdoors
For many homeowners, having an outdoor space where you can relax and entertain your guests is a dream come true. Spending time outside your house can be as comfortable as spending time inside, and with a suitable outdoor space, you can enjoy both comfort and functionality.
Once you have the suitable space, designing your outdoor living space becomes more effortless. All you need to do is make provision for the right furniture, lights, and decorations; your outdoor living space will be perfect. This may involve also hiring a dumpster to handle any yard debris, which you can click here to find out more about. The aftermath of a renovation outdoors can be a lot to dispose of, however, using a dumpster rental will assist with this part of the project. This might sound like a lot, which is why this guideline was created to help you with some of the best ideas for extending your living space outdoors.
Work with the Outdoor Space Available
The first step towards extending your living space outdoors is measuring the outdoor space available. This is important as it helps you create the perfect outdoor living room that fits into that space without going overboard.
You should consider elements like trees, steep hills, large plants, and gentle slopes. Additionally, consider the sun's position at different hours of the day before designing your outdoor living area. You wouldn't want to be blinded by the sun, so taking note of such elements early helps you avoid problems.
Select a Theme
Do you have an architectural style or colour scheme for your outdoor living area? You should. This is another extension of your home, so you should choose outdoor materials that complement your home's interior design. You might decide to try out something different from your interior design, and this works too. All you have to do is ensure that your extended living area is comfortable and well furnished. You can always add plants and accessories to add more colour to your space.
Shelter for Outdoor Living Spaces
The shelter is another essential item to consider when extending your living space outdoors. If you choose to furnish your outdoor living space with sofas, tables, and chairs, they must be appropriately protected against the effects of the sun and rain. Patio awnings or awnings, in general, can be used for this purpose. Nationwide, awnings provide shade and shelter for outdoor space. With the right shelter, your outdoor living area can become more enjoyable.
Plan for Outdoor Lighting
Ideal outdoor living spaces always start with great lighting. Good lighting provides the necessary welcoming glow to your outdoor space. Lighting can be placed along pathways to show safe steps off the deck. They can also be placed on trees to give your backyard an ethereal feeling. Additionally, lighting can be mounted against the house, above or under a patio awning, or even overhead a pavilion. Also, lanterns, lamp posts, and illuminating orbs can be used to light up your outdoor spaces.
Use Outdoor Furniture
Finding furniture and other items designed for the outdoors will save you from having to replace goods damaged by bad weather. Having an outdoor space means keeping pieces of furniture out in the open air under several weather conditions, which means not all types of furniture are ideal for this. Therefore, weatherproof furniture is vital as such items can withstand different weather conditions.
Firepits and Outdoor Fireplaces
Who doesn't love a beautiful outdoor fireplace? It's no surprise that luxury fire pits are becoming so popular. Firepits allow you to enjoy and experience conversations by the firelight, and this is known to be very relaxing. This comes in various types; you can choose a fire pit that burns wood and charcoal or go for one that makes use of a gas line. They can also be built or bought as a luxury fire table.
Incorporate a Pond
You can incorporate a pond to add more aesthetics to your outdoor living area. This is a fantastic feature for water feature lovers. A pond can be constructed above a covered deck, and a system that draws water from it and pours it back through the deck can be created. Although this requires work, the end product is always worth it.
Create a Dedicated Chill Zone
You can spend hours curled up reading or napping in a dedicated chill zone, which is why it is crucial in every outdoor living space. A chill zone could include a garden chair with stylish soft furnishings like cushions and throws positioned under a patio awning. However, make sure that whatever furniture you choose is comfortable and can be left outside all year without suffering.
Outdoor Kitchens and Dining Furniture
Depending on your outdoor space, you should incorporate outdoor dining furniture and a kitchen into your design. Eating outdoors is truly elegant, from traditional to contemporary verandas; this can be a blissful experience with the right setting. There's just something about enjoying your meal in a comfortable and relaxing space. So having a dining extension of your living room doesn't hurt but makes your outdoor space more functional for casual and formal lounging and eating.
Movie Theatre
With ample outdoor space, you can create a movie theatre of your own under an awning. This can be created by first placing a carpet to prevent cold from the ground, then putting matrices and cushions. Next, use lights and ornaments to make the place as cosy as you choose, then get a projector alongside a fitted sheet for displaying the film. Once done, your outdoor movie theatre is ready. All you need is popcorn and snacks, and you are good to go.
Use Pergola
Pergolas are known to add magic to any outdoor space. This fantastic piece of furniture allows you to relax, and when sofas, armchairs, and comfortable cushions are added, going back indoors will be the last thing on your mind. With a pergola in your outdoor living area, you are sure to enjoy your time after a long day.
Add Plants and Flowers
Flowers and plants can add more colour to your outdoor space. Adding outdoor plants to your extended living space enhances your yard's design and style and provides several additional benefits. From hibiscus to tropical palms to Bougainvillea, plants have a way of sprucing up your outdoor space. Additionally, they improve the air quality and add an element of nature to your area.
Elevate your Space with Layered Finishes
If you are working with a small space, you may want to add more layers to enable you to design more. Your living area can be extended by adding greenery from top to bottom. For added effect, natural woods can create contrast against a smooth patio awning.
Centralise
The essence of having an outdoor living space is spending as much time as possible in the area. However, another reason is to host friends and family in a social gathering. Therefore, creating a nice view is equally important. A central point in your outdoor space makes it more social, especially when inviting others over. It is essential you effectively use the space available. Your focal point can be around a picnic table, where meals can be eaten and games played or a water feature; even an outdoor kitchen can serve this purpose.
Conclusion
Warm days are best spent outdoors, and with an extension of your living space outside, you can make yours as comfortable as possible. The more open your outdoor space is, the better you get to modify it to match your style and landscape. Your outdoor living space should bring joy to you and be a comfort zone. Therefore, you must have fun with it and create a space that fits your every need.
