By Pat James
After months cooped up indoors, it’s time to roll out the welcome mat on the patio and expand your living space. Whether that outdoor room is actually a balcony, a porch, a deck or all of that and more in a big yard, there is a lot you can do to make it multifunctional, welcoming and stylish. Here’s are some of the latest trends.
Go With Greenery
Thoughtfully placed and incorporated greenery can truly elevate outdoor space of any size. Once the risk of frost is over, get planting! Climbing vines on trellises can be used to create privacy. If there’s green space beyond the seating area, perimeter shrubs and perennial groupings will add lush texture and visual interest. Depending on light conditions, consider using ferns and both floor and hanging plants. In some cases, your indoor plants can be brought outdoors and used as part of your décor. Just be sure the light conditions match their needs.
When grouping pots and containers, choose plants that thrive in similar growing conditions and layer them based on height, shape and colour that will complement your décor. And don’t hesitate to grow some herbs and vegetables. They’re both colourful and nurturing.
In case gardening isn’t your thing, you can buy ready-made arrangements of herbs or flowers or greenery. Just water, prune and mind the light conditions to ensure they thrive. For the look without the work, there are plenty of artificial plants on the market that appear realistic and will not wilt.
Blur the Lines
A popular ongoing trend (and smart design choice) is to carry the look of your interior outdoors. If your adjacent living room or family room has a boho, earthy or sleek modern aesthetic, match the vibe in your outdoor space.
Weather-resistant woods such as teak, cedar and (sealed) acacia, rust-proofed metals such as aluminum, wrought iron and stainless steel, stone, concrete and synthetic materials such as resin wicker are some of the materials that can be used with UV-resistant, water-repellent and mold-resistant fabrics to create inviting areas to dine, relax and socialize. If it’s time to buy new seating cushions, consider shades that match or complement your indoor seating hues or décor hues. Alternatively, you can use weather-proof toss cushions and other décor accessories to create some indoor-outdoor cohesion.
Level-Up the Details
Nothing ups the style factor better than an outdoor rug. It defines a space and visually grounds a grouping of furniture. Side tables, ottomans and small stools can add flair and functionality, while a throw (or two) adds good looks, colour, texture and a welcome hit of warmth when the day cools down.
Be Mindful of Light
By thoughtfully addressing light needs, you can create space that can be maximized right through the day. For instance, during the daylight hours you want an umbrella or shade cover so that you can enjoy your morning coffee or al fresco lunch without risking sunburn. When the sun goes down, string lights, recessed LED deck lights, under-rail and post-cap lights, portable LED lights, flameless LED pillar candles and battery- or solar-powered lanterns are all attractive options. You can layer them to create ambience and improve safety. If your space is a balcony, you can put your string or fairy lights on the railing.
Even if your balcony, porch or patio is on the small side, it can still be inviting and enjoyable right through the warm weather.
