Summer has arrived, so we should make the most of the season by spending it outdoors. Put away your electronics and relax in your own backyard oasis. Here are some ways to beautify your outdoor space and make it cozier so you will never want to leave home.
Tone it down: While neon and pastel colours are currently in fashion, try not to go overboard with too many colours. A muted, monochromatic palette will give you a sense of calm and also allow your eye to focus on the beautiful plants you spent so much time cultivating. White, black, grey and beige are great tones. If you must have colour, try adding it in accessories that can be changed easily or shades of blue that are calming to the senses.
Wash over me: Outdoor showers are becoming increasingly popular. If you have a pool, they’re great for a quick rinse before or after a swim, or if you have children who like to get down and dirty while playing outside. Rain shower heads are a soothing feature that will leave you feeling as if you just stepped out of a gentle waterfall.
Banquette-i-quette: Custom benches are popular for backyards. They are great because they take advantage of the existing layout and maximize space so every area becomes usable. If you don’t have the budget for custom-built banquettes, try using wood pallets and have cushions made to fit them. (See photo above) Tip: This look fits best with older homes that have character.
I’m floored: Patio floors don’t always have to be a wood deck or stone pavers. There are alternative options available to suit every style and budget: everything from stamped concrete to composite decking and even tree trunk slices, which are durable and inexpensive to install.
Heavy metal: Copper is not only hot for interiors, it also looks great in the backyard as its warm hue gives a polished and elegant feel to any outdoor space. If you don’t want to spend the money, you can get the same look by taking old paint cans and spray-painting them with copper paint.
Hang in there: If you haven’t noticed, hanging egg chairs are in style again. Not only do they provide a comfortable nook for reading, but the organic egg shape combined with the natural texture of rattan is easy on the eye and blends well in a natural environment.
Cluster of lights: Outdoor lighting has become more aesthetic in recent years, and we are seeing more chandeliers hung over patio dining tables. People view their outdoor spaces as an extension of the indoors. For a romantic, dreamy look, try grouping lanterns and hanging them from a tree or pergola.
IMAGES: 1. via Patio Design Depot; 2. via Molly Frey Design;3. via Nuevo Estilo; 4. via Dwell; 5. via Garden Life; 6. via Digs Digs; 7. via Architectural Digest Russia.
