Decorating & Design

Design lesson: Outdoor rooms

E-mail It

Design lesson: Outdoor rooms

Send to a friend

* marked fields are required.

Extend the season as long as possible by incorporating these great ideas into your garden room.

Choose comfy seating. A high-back armchair that comes with weather-resistant cushions will cradle the body and soul and offer a sense of security.

Incorporate exterior lighting. A comprehensive plan that features a variety of fixtures is vital if you plan to enjoy the area in the evening.

The dos and don'ts of creating outdoor rooms
DO design a garden room that flows seamlessly from your house's architecture and style of decoration. A classical interior is complemented by an Italianate garden room with chalk white urns, striped fabrics and Roman busts, just as a country home can open onto a rustic setting featuring wicker furniture, terra-cotta pots and galvanized watering cans.

DO carve out specific areas for relaxation, recreation and tasks. For reading, include a comfortable chair and a table to place a drink. Even a tiny portion of a deck, patio or grass can be converted into an alfresco dining room. Plan on a minimum nine- by nine-foot space for a 48-inch-diameter table.

DO position furniture with an eye toward the best view.

DO look beyond the barbecue to a full-service cooking centre. Purchase or build a barbecue island with storage, warming drawers and even a small fridge, depending on your budget.

DON'T allow fabrics to distract from the true focal point – your garden. Pick a neutral or natural palette and add a few accents that echo colours in your garden.

DON'T forget most outdoor furniture lasts longer if sheltered during the winter. Consider lightweight furniture options like all-weather wicker, resin, or metal frames with woven seats. Only choose furniture with cushions (waterproof fabric is essential) if you have convenient storage close at hand.

0 Comments

Leave a Comment
Leave a comment

My Style At Home network

  • Login to account

    Login

  • Sign Up

    Sign up now to receive exclusive access to the My Home & Garden network!

Sign up for the StyleAtHome E-Newsletter

Get free decorating and design tips delivered straight to your in-box! You’ll also receive recipes, entertaining advice, and contest notifications for your chance to win fabulous prizes. Sign up now to get all this and more!

E-MAIL ADDRESS

Contests

Latest Contests

more contests