The last of the snow has melted, spring has finally sprung and we are only a few weeks away from being able to sit outside and enjoy the outdoors without shivering. The last two years have reminded us how important it is to create a haven at home, both indoors and out. Here are some ideas that will help you spruce up your outdoor living space so that you can enjoy it all season.
INVEST IN COMFORT
Gone are the days that relaxing outside meant trying to avoid slivers from wooden picnic tables and chairs. Today, when people head outdoors to entertain friends or to relax, they want to lounge on comfortable furniture. When shopping for your outdoor space, consider investing in cozy seating. If you enjoy entertaining large groups, a cushioned sectional with a fire table in the centre will provide a toasty place to unwind and chat, but it will also offer your guests a practical surface to place drinks and plates. If your outdoor living area is in full sun, you may want to purchase a cantilever umbrella. If you have a more generous budget, a gazebo will not only protect you from the sun, but it will also provide shelter from the rain.
FUNCTIONAL SPACE
In recent years, outdoor spaces have increased in functionality. Homeowners who enjoy cooking have prioritized the addition of outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens and bars, which are fantastic for entertaining. Outdoor living rooms have also risen in popularity with some homeowners adding TVs and outdoor projectors to the space. Watching the game with friends or snuggling up for family movie night under the stars is a great way to unwind and enjoy.
Just be sure to add a source of heat. If you are not in a warm climate, the nights can get chilly. Adding a fire table to your sitting area is a game changer in colder climates.
CONTAINER OR VERTICAL GARDENS
If you do not have an expansive yard or the greenest of thumbs, you may still want to add some greenery to your space. Add a vertical wall garden or small container gardens on your deck or patio. Plant fresh herbs, salad greens or flowers. All you need to get started are containers, soil, and seeds. For a vertical wall garden, use a wall of your deck or fence and grow plants one on top of the other. These “living walls” are fantastic conversation pieces and they double as privacy fences.
OUTDOOR WORK SPACE
Creating outdoor “office” space is becoming more of a priority for those who work at home, especially as the warm weather approaches. It can be pretty depressing to be trapped at a desk on a beautiful sunny day. If you work from home, consider adding a waterproof work table and ergonomic chair. Choose a quiet spot with a strong wifi connection and shade (or add an umbrella). There is no need to stay indoors during the spring and summer. With some careful planning, working from home can offer the opportunity to work in the great outdoors!
