We know that decorating an outdoor space can seem daunting. There’s the vast blank canvas, concerns about weather damage to our furniture, and the challenge of maintaining our privacy. But alas, the temperature is rising, the sun is setting later, and the pool is calling our names! That can only mean one thing: let’s dive into outdoor spaces.
First, let’s talk about the importance of material. When designing outdoor spaces for our clients, we always source the best outdoor fabrics that withstand all of the elements. Some of my go-to brands are Perennials and Sunbrella which are both industry-leading performance fabrics. As for materials for a dining table, teak is a wonderful option because it’s exceptionally durable and weatherproof, due to its dense grain and high oil content.
When choosing your color scheme, take into account the architectural style of your home. The color scheme of an outdoor space really depends on the architectural style of the home and the personal style of our clients. For example, a MCM home would do well with a pops of bright colors, whereas a colonial home may do best with a more traditional color scheme or a pinstripe pattern as the pop! For a cottage-style home, a neutral foundation with pops of light blue or sage green would pair nicely!
You want your backyard to feel like your own private oasis, not your neighbor’s. If you are feeling completely exposed, there are many creative ways to help create privacy in your backyard retreat… Some of our favorites are:
- Sprawling trees (this would be a job for a landscaper)
- Decorative panels (and you can even add a water feature to them!)
- A pergola with vines growing up the side or opt for outdoor curtains for a resort-style cabana feel
Arguably, one of the most important elements of a night under the stars is lighting. Ambient lighting should be on your must-have list when planning your backyard
because it’s guaranteed to make your space feel much more cozy and luxurious. I remember visiting the Grand Waleah Resort in Maui and being so inspired by all of the beautiful ambient lighting! There are a plethora of fantastic options to explore besides string lights. Consider:
- Floating pool lights
- Decorative candlelight and hurricanes
- We are LOVING a rechargeable light, such as this one from Visual Comfort. It comes in 3 finishes! (Just keep in mind they need to be stored inside)
- Pathway lighting is important, and serves a dual purpose: it’s safe and pretty!
- Tabletop fire bowls
- Uplights are beautiful when they are projected onto your home or a tree
- Garden lights provide a soft glow
- Water feature lights
Still need help planning? Schedule a consultation and we will investigate what your needs are so that you can fully enjoy your outdoor space. We’d love to help!
