Summer is finally here and are you all set to enjoy the beautiful weather Mother Nature has to offer? I have recently given the tired deck at my family home a much needed facelift, and now it is everyone’s favourite hangout spot! Here are my top 4 tips to update your outdoor oasis this summer.
tip 1: max out seating capacity
Regardless of your entertaining style, there is no such thing as “too much seating” when it comes to summer party. Before you to get to the really exciting part such as shopping for your dream outdoor furniture, it is ultmost important to measure out the space and map out the different zones. For my deck makeover, I have divided up a 10′ x 14′ deck into 2 distinct zones:
1. cozy lounge: a sectional set comes with an ottoman fits into the corner of the deck perfectly and I just love lounging at the corner with my favourite reads & cocktails.
2. intimate nook: this is an ideal spot for 2 and I love the mid-century vibe of these chairs. Add a couple of toss pillows and a side table, I am ready to enjoy my morning coffee or afternoon tea!
tip 2: play with colors & patterns
Don’t shy away from bold florals and bright colors when it comes to decorating your outdoor space. After all, that is what summer is all about and this is an ideal opportunity to be experimental in design style / color palette outside of your comfort zone!
In my deck makeover, I have injected florals, polka dots, dotted links, geometric prints, and solids for a real good mix of patterns and have practically included every color under the rainbow.
The trick to create a graphic yet calming, cohesive look is to ensure you have a jumping off point that ties all the other colors and patterns together. In this case, my jumping off point is the beautiful floral from Bluebellgray. It has the canery yellow from the lattice print from Tonic Living, the robin’s egg blue on the polka dot, and the light lime green on the narrow lumbar pillow, making this watercolor print my top choice for this makeover.
I of course couldn’t resist adding some tassels just for fun with this gorgeous linen cushion.
tip 3: add a stylish self-serving station
A key component of easy breezy entertaining is to create a self-serving station. Let’s be honest, would you rather be chatting with your guests or constantly monitoring who needs a top-up? Depending on the size of your outdoor space, your serving station could range from a full-blown bar to a simple tray table with a generous surface for glasses and drinks.
In my case, I have placed a few plates, napkins, some flowers and a small lantern for a casual, relaxed look. I also love the refreshing colors and patterns of these plates, napkins, and how they echo the mix of patterns in the lounge zone.
tip 4: let there be light
Last but not least, why not create ambience by adding clusters of chic moroccan lanterns and installing energy efficient LCD deck lights? Candle lights offer an amazing glow while the deck lights provide subtle, practical lights on the steps.
I am now ready to host my next summer party. Are you planning to give your outdoor living space a fresh new look?
4 tips to refresh your outdoor oasis
Source: Style at home
4 tips to refresh your outdoor oasis
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