As people are putting away their patio furniture us desert dwellers are getting ready to enjoy our outdoor living areas. After a long hot summer, going outside without bursting into flames is like a reward. We always say October - May is why we all live here.
We can all use a little more time outside so we encourage clients to build an outdoor space to maximize the livability of their homes all year round. Your patio can really be a 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th living area. Here are some tips we used in our Blaker Project to transform their backyard into a tranquil space.
Outdoor rugs
Outdoor rugs are the best way to cozy up the outdoors. They instantly bring the inside out and elevate any area. We love mixing rugs with bold patterns and colors in one area and balance with neutral rugs in another area to define spaces and keep the colors and textures interesting.
Storage
If we are living in this space like we would indoors, then let's treat it like we would the indoors. We always need storage. Finding case goods and smart storage solutions will help keep your outdoors tidy and make sure there is a home for everything. This outdoor credenza provides a great amount of space for furniture covers, extra outdoor candles, garden equipment and so much more. Plus it adds a living room element and would be a perfect spot to anchor an outdoor television.
Embrace Performance Fabrics
Fabric outdoors can be a scary thought for some (especially with all the dust here in Arizona) but with the rise of performance fabrics the options have really opened up. Using outdoor rated fabric will give that sofa feeling to the outdoors and probably be your favorite lounge spot in your home. Fade resistant, water resistant, stain resistant fabrics are the way of the future so take advantage!
Create Multiple Zones
Just like the inside of your home, the outside can have so many functions. By using furniture we can really define different areas for different kinds of entertaining. Pools are a great area to define for sun bathing and summer lounging, where as fire pits will mostly be used in the winter months for evening conversations and s'mores. Evaluate your backyard and your lifestyle and what areas will be best for each activity. You might even find for chickens and a garden like our Blaker Project client's did.
Get Shady
The strongest element here in Arizona is definitely the sun. We love it, but sometimes it can be too much of a good thing. Once you have defined your areas, determine where you will need some shady relief. We added big pops of blue with a few umbrellas around the pool area. These umbrellas even have solar LED lighting on the inside to give some ambiance in the evenings. Sun sails, Ramadas, trees, and roller shades are also great in providing shade.