With everything going on in the world today, home trends embody more than just a change in style. With health and well-being at the forefront, there’s no better time to integrate immediate indoor outdoor living, especially when a breath of fresh is what we crave.
With chilly winters and blazing summers as the Baltimore norm, we can find a middle ground by integrating transitional spaces into our everyday lives. Check out our great suggestions for bringing the indoors out and the outdoors in.
Take Cover
Whether you are sheltering from the snow or escaping the summer sun, adding a pergola to your outdoor space is a functional way to use your yard year-round. If your pergola is fully covered, consider cladding the ceiling in raw wood planks or a decorative veneer. Add mood lighting for reading and night-time get togethers. Create a space that feels like an interior room complete with planters, furniture and accent decor. A ceiling fan for the summer will keep the space cool and a built-in barbeque is great for both on and off season grilling. Potted greenery adds an organic vibe while blocking wind and drafty breezes. For smaller spaces like patios and porches, consider a shade sail or other low-profile option.
Bring The Heat
A gas fire pit or other decorative heat source can create a cozy space to snuggle up in the winter or sit back and relax around in the summer. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or simply catching up with family, a crackling, golden blaze adds layers of comfort to your ambiance. For more convenience, a freestanding electric or gas heater eliminates the mess of a traditional pit and is easily repositioned for optimum warmth. Tabletop firepits fueled by propane are great for small outdoor spaces. During the cooler months, accessorize your outdoor furniture with blankets and throws. Complete the tableau with popcorn and hot cider for a functional cool weather outdoor space.
Cook Al Fresco
Get out of the kitchen and into the wild outdoors by bringing your meals outside. Just like your regular indoor kitchen, consider functionality above all else. For a permanent outdoor cooking space, select materials that are weather resistant and long lasting. Invest in covers for barbeques and grills and make sure electronics like fridges and drink coolers are out of the wet. For a temporary installation, set up a kitchen station, cooking surface and drink cart in a protected area. Add a picnic table, blanket, Moroccan poufs or set of benches for guests to sit back and dine.
Smart Seating
When it comes to outdoor furniture the sky is really the limit. Create a focal point with smart seating. First, decide what type of space you would like to create. Will it be a funky dining area or a comfy lounge; a laid-back set of Adirondack chairs or a soothing hanging bench? No matter what you choose, make sure it is suited for the outdoors. Choose water and UV resistant fabric with taped seams and covered zippers. Invest in waterproof covers for harsh weather and powder coated metals. Spring for quality products to ensure your seating will last for decades to come.
Luminous Lights
Finally, finish your space with lights! Uplighting in various colors can set the tone while hanging market lights provide a soft, indoor feel to the outdoors. Not only will a good set of lights extend the time you can spend outdoors, it also increases safety for your guests. Put an end to hobbling up tricky stairs with wall mounted lighting. Avoid trip and fall hazards with clear footpaths and landscape illumination. Create vignettes with targeted spotlights and other playful features like firepits, gas torches and candles. Lighting can make all the difference in taking your space to the next level.
Indoor Outdoor Living
So, are you ready to bring the indoors out and the outdoors in? As we continue to value our home life more than ever, now is the perfect time to begin making plans to embrace an indoor outdoor living lifestyle.
