She might be down to earth and rooted in reality by her responsibilities, but her soul is a wild one; always set on finding magic in sunsets and sunrises that others take for granted. Daniel Mercury
Let’s talk about how now, more than ever, we need to create well-designed, functional and beautiful outside rooms to live, breathe, entertain, escape and relax in! For many of us, we immediately migrate to the outdoors when the sunnier and warmer temperatures hit. It is a basic need to be outside, especially when we’ve had to live, work, confine, and stay home so much lately… That’s why it is a necessity for us to really plan ahead, plan our spaces well, and live wisely in them.
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- Start with a budget. It is really important that whatever plans you make to improve your space, that for long term changes, you stick to a budget. Think about things like quality outdoor appliances or hardscape or additions- and if you plan to move in the future, then consider your best portable options. Planning ahead will go a long way!
Plan. Budget. Plan. Budget.
2. Follow the rules. If you have plans to create a covered area, install gas fittings, or build onto a deck etc. make sure you have whatever permits and insurances are required, to ensure you are covered, and build from a strong foundation.
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3. Map it out! Do you know where you want everything to go? Consider the outdoor areas and zones that we use. Ideally, for food prep, we have a wet zone for cleaning, and a dry zone for food prep. Additionally, we have a hot zone for bbq or cooking, and a cold zone for beverage storage. Lastly, we have a zone for entertaining and chillaxing! The most important one, right?! That actually makes 5 zones! And that’s why we need to plan and be organized!
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4. Material Design – Are you thinking about a stainless steel unit, a brick pizza oven, or a built-in concrete counter? Whatever the material, it goes with saying that your design should be structurally sound, waterproofed, and aesthetically pleasing! Living in outside rooms means we can think differently about how we use the space. There are so many options for cooking, dining, seating, lighting and home decor.
Image: amazingoutdoorkitchens.net
5. Light it up… I can’t get enough of string lights! Haha- they really are so pretty! But in addition to these, think about your task lighting, (overhead), lighting pavers, garden solar lights, tiki lights on a path, cordless lights and lanterns for your tables, and so much more. A lot will depend on your personal preference and budget.
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6. Go green! In my dreams, I have a fully mature, really private, big, green and leafy oasis! Plants, trees, and water really help me escape and connect me to nature and my surroundings. If you’re like that too, bring in all the plants! Build a living wall, plant a hanging or climbing vine and use those ceilings for shade and texture. Create living screens from bamboo, cedars, or potted plants. A vertical wall of varietal grasses, succulents or even herbs, will be a gorgeous visual in your outside room! And if you like water, try incorporating a water feature. **
** I actually think that a water feature and landscaping should have their own post… but I will add in here for now, that creating a beautifully landscaped outside room is something I leave to the professionals! Hire someone who can bring your vision to life! Whether that be in design or build, a Landscape Architect or Designer is the way to go, hands down!
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7. Turn up the heat! Who doesn’t love the warmth of a fire, eh? Again, so many options to incorporate into your outside rooms. Think about fire pits, fire pedestals, built-in stone fireplace and hearth, smaller ethanol fuel tabletop and portable gas, or gel. The ambient glow will enhance your space, warm up your nights, and makes everyone look pretty good! 😉
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8. Cover up! Well, it does rain, so I do need to mention that you should protect your investment and beautiful changes! If you’ve installed a roof, do you need a screen and cable for the side? Are your materials waterproof and UVF? Do you have an awning, shade sail or umbrella? Remember to invest in these quality materials, as they will stand up to the elements, and be more comfortable for us.
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9. Sit on it! Seriously, most of us will want a comfortable place to rest. Some of us will want luxury and elegance, some of us will want rustic and simplicity. It doesn’t really matter. Loungers, sectionals, hanging chairs, chaises or hammocks – choose products and materials that will elevate your space, keep their colour, quality and last a lifetime, so that you can enjoy your rest and relaxation. Buy the performance materials that will withstand pets, kids, and the elements. This is where hiring an Interior Designer comes in pretty handy! We know how to build a timeless design, catered to your needs and budget! Buy once-cry once!
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10. Decorate 🙂 Why not, right?! Isn’t this the best part, hehe! Check out my Inspiration Board Patio and Garden.
Image: marieclaire.fr
Buy all the hardy, outdoor, seasonal decor that brings you joy! Think about your outdoor spaces and create those rooms where you can find rest and solitude, or throw a Summer Soiree. We only get so much time outside, so let’s plan and create our outside rooms to live in them well. Because when we do all congregate together again- it will be a fine day!! 🙂
