It's that time of year again when the sun is shining and the smell of grilled food wafts through the neighborhood. It's so nice to have an outdoor space that allows us to relax, entertain or have a perfect space for outdoor meals with the family. Whether your design tastes are traditional or bohemian, here are some fabulous options to spice up your space.
Every outdoor space needs a functional seating area. If you're wanting a more social seating setting, consider a conversational seating area. Similar to your indoor space, create an outdoor lounge layout where guests and family can relax and snack. When not entertaining, it provides a comfortable space to put your feet up, relax and read a book or take an afternoon siesta.
For a fun lounge setting, consider adding a table with a built in firepit for some extra pizzazz where guest can set their drinks. This creates a warm, inspiring setting and may also allow you to use your space during the colder months. Many fire pit tables allow you to use as a full occasional table for those nights without a glowing fire.
If you'd prefer a more traditional gathering, then go with a dining table. When selecting your outdoor dining setting, take into account your porch or patio size as well as your budget, style and climate. Choose a set that accommodates the number of people you'll need to seat most often. For outdoor parties and barbeques, a large table can be extended with the addition of a smaller table at the end. Also adding bench seating also allows for flexibility with additional guests. Cushions or throw pillows will add more comfort.
Having a dinner party and looking for ideas to make your outdoor entertaining space more special? Accessorize your space. By adding lanterns, additional greenery, and pillows, your outdoor area becomes welcoming and comfortable and adds color and texture.
Outdoor string lighting is an easy way to instantly add ambiance. Drape lights from trees, umbrellas or hang paper light lanterns from your porch. Whatever your taste, outdoor lighting can create a whimsical, charming outdoor space or add instant glamour.
If you have the budget for outdoor dinnerware, this is a great way to add fun to your space but if you're watching your pennies, just add a few colorful serving dishes, fun relish trays and a unique container for utensils or napkins. Paper plate holders are also a fun, nostalgic option to spruce up the simple white paper. Tip: using neutral colored, wood, galvanized or clear servicing pieces, allows you to easily use again with different color palettes for years to come.
Table linens add a pop of color & flair to your outdoor dining space. Whether your looking for sophistication or rustic charm, there are table linens available for all styles to compliment any outdoor place setting. Use just a tablecloth to cover, protect or add elegance to your table. Use a runner or placemats to add a splash of color. Changing out linens with new patterns or colors can be a fun way to spice up and create a new table setting each year or for different social gatherings.
Finally, kick off your shoes and lay down an outdoor rug. Adding a rug to any outdoor area instantly transforms an outdoor space, creating the finished look of an outdoor space. Rugs pull your seating or dining area together into a single, unified space that's inviting and comfortable. Changing an outdoor rug, along with any throw pillows, is any easy and economical way to switch out color palettes every few years as your tastes change.
