Dwelling Envy Interiors

6 Key Elements For Any Outdoor Space
Picture of by KRISTIN PATRICIAN

by KRISTIN PATRICIAN

Author, Owner & Principal Designer of
Dwelling Envy Interiors

Date

Summer has officially begun – I’m so excited! 

Here in New York, I don’t have the luxury of warm weather and sunshine year long – so when the summer season rolls around, I try to spend the majority of my time soaking up the sun.

For me, I  try to spend all my time chillen’ out max and relaxing all cool  on my outdoor porch and deck. 

If you have an outdoor space, whether it be a backyard, patio, or balcony, making it a comfortable and inviting space can make all the difference. 

In fact, I believe that when it comes to decorating your outdoor spaces, it should be done with the same level of focus, care, and energy as you would for the inside of your home. 

So, I want to focus on the 6 key elements to consider for any outdoor space that will make it a well-designed, perfect summer retreat.

 

**Please note this blog may contain affiliate links which means Dwelling Envy Interiors may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you!**

1. Comfortable Seating

It shouldn’t come as a shock that my number one element to consider is a comfortable seating arrangement.  When choosing seating, consider the size, style, and comfort level. Look for chairs and sofas with deep cushions and supportive frames. You may also want to include ottomans or side tables for added comfort and convenience. 

But let’s be honest – outdoor furniture tends to be a bit more expensive.  Why? Because outdoor furnishings are constantly exposed to harsh sunlight, high winds, and pouring rain.

Good quality outdoor furnishings will be made with materials that dry quickly, contain light-fastness features, and in some cases, heavier weighted materials.

So, with this in mind, it makes sense why the price tag on an outdoor sectional may be just as expensive, or more, than what you spent on your indoor piece.

Here are a few of my favorite outdoor furnishings that I just can’t get enough of!

 

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2. Lighting

The second most important element to an outdoor space is using proper lighting.  In general, proper lighting anywhere can set the tone of your space, so it’s as much of an important feature inside as it is on the outside of your home. There are many options for outdoor lighting, including string lights, lanterns, spotlights and even firepits!

I suggest using a combination of lighting options to create a layered effect. Don’t forget to include lighting around pathways and stairs for added safety and security purposes.

You can check out a few of the lighting elements we’ve used in our own outdoor space and love here.

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3. Shade

Having access to shade from the harsh sun is crucial to providing an inviting and outdoor retreat. It not only provides protection from harmful UV rays, it allows for better relaxation when you’re able to have an area away from direct sunlight.  And fortunately, there are a lot of great ideas and options that will help you beat the heat in style.  From umbrellas, pergolas, awnings, and shade sales here are a few of our favorite options out on the market right now.

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4. Decorative Elements

Just as you would inside your home, adding a few decorative accents will give your outdoor space that pop and luxury feel you need.  Adding a rug underneath your seating provides a barrier from harsh wood or stone flooring, while adding color and texture.  A few decorative pillows in an outdoor friendly fabric will not only be stylish, but comfortable for you to lean on.  You know that saying “design is in the details” and this holds true for your outdoor space as well.  When shopping for your outdoor accessories, you’ll want to consider durability, and weather resistance. Be sure to purchase items specifically meant for outdoor spaces.  The good news is, there is a LOT of options out there for decorative outdoor accessories at great price points, here are a few of my favorites.

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5. Landscaping

I have to confess, I’m not great with plants – so landscaping for me is a REAL challenge, but it is an essential element of any outdoor space. Its a more natural way to add color, texture, and dimension and can also provide privacy and additional shade. However, you’ll want to work with vegetation that thrives in the climate you are located. Also, consider the specific requirements each plant may have in relation to where you plant in your space. 

For these reasons I suggest speaking to a professional and having them help you draw up a plan! You’ll save time, money, and your sanity!

6. Storage

And the last element to include for your outdoor space is arguably the most important- storage.  Having a place for everything and everything in its place is just as important as the thought put into finding the right-looking furnishings. Having a storage place for your cushions when not in use.  

Consider investing in a small shed to house your extra tools and supplies, which will keep them organized and out of sight.  You know the saying “Clutter smothers, simplicity breathes” so to have a truly tranquil and calming outdoor retreat, proper storage of of the upmost essence

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Incorporating the six key elements outlined above, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that will feel like a welcoming extension of your home.

Use these elements as helpful guidelines while infusing your unique style and personality – to create an outdoor space that you will love and enjoy.

Want even more inspiration, check out our outdoor design boards on our LTK Shop & read our excerpt from our feature in Insider about the 10 Things In Your Outdoor Space You Should Get Rid Of.  

Stay tuned for our next blog where we explore what is and how to decorate one of my favorite design styles – Coastal Design!

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1. Using Only a Comforter/Duvet and Pillow Cases for Your Bedding

Using matching bedding sets without adding a break in-between them is a huge faux pas.  To give your bedding a more luxurious look, break up your bed set by adding additional colors, patterns, and textures with the use of accent pillows, throw blankets, and sheets.  The key is to play with pieces that pull together a cohesive statement without being too matchy-matchy. 

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Photo Credit Dwelling Envy Interiors All Rights Reserved

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Photo Credit Dwelling Envy Interiors All Rights Reserved

2. Signage of Any Kind

Whether they are hung on the walls or placed on a shelf, signage of any kind can instantly cheapen a home’s appeal.  We suggest removing any and all of these signs, and focus more on adding items that provide a more personal and sentimental value instead.  For instance, instead of a sign that says “Kitchen” add a framed handwritten recipe from a loved one.  You don’t need a sign that says “Gather” when you add a gallery wall featuring photos of those special to you. These ideas add more character and value to your home than a sign ever will.

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Photo Credit Dwelling Envy Interiors All Rights Reserved

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3. Matching Dining Room and / or Bedroom Sets

Purchasing matching dining and/or bedroom sets has increasingly become an outdated concept.  Having all items in matching finishes gives off an uninspiring and uninteresting, showroom vibe.  

To create a more inspiring look to your bedroom or dining room, mix up the colors, textures, and finishes of your pieces.  For instance, if you choose a darker wood table or nightstand, opt for chairs or a bed in a lighter finish or try incorporating a new texture such as upholstery or metal instead.  By mixing up the elements and textures you use, you create a more eye catching and interesting design.

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Photo Credit Dwelling Envy Interiors All Rights Reserved

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4. Over Decorating

We’ve all heard the phrase “less is more” and that holds true when it comes to a well designed space. Over decorating a room creates visual noise, and it distracts our eyes from really focusing in on anything.  

For instance, if you find your room is over cluttered with family photos on every surface, you’re not able to really appreciate the furnishings or the photos.  They become more of a distraction to the eye than an appealing decorative accent.  Instead of letting your photos collect dust, we suggest creating a coffee table book with them instead.  This will declutter your surfaces and allow guest to pay proper tribute to your loved ones while flipping through the pages.

Filling up every inch of your wall space is another way to cheapen the look of your home. Instead, create a visually appealing story by adding larger statement pieces to one key wall.  This draws the eyes in, and creates a better balanced design.

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5. Taking a Decorative Theme Too Literal

Taking a decorative theme too literal is the difference between a design cliche and a well designed home.

For instance, when incorporating a coastal theme, avoid using products that directly involve seashells, fish, or anchors.  Instead, opt to incorporate coastal elements and materials that remind you of the coast, such as linen and burlap textiles, serene blue and green colors, and sand textured ceramics.

If you’re going for a Modern Farmhouse look, stay away from decorating with barnyard animals.  Instead, try finding furnishings or accent pieces made of reclaimed wood. Be sure to blend modern and vintage/antique pieces together, and don’t be afraid to mix metals.  These are design elements that will give your home a much better appeal while avoiding the common cliches.

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If you’ve enjoyed reading our Decorating Tips Above, be sure to check out our blog feature 4 Simple Instant Ways to Update Your Home.  You can check out all our other blog posts below.  Be sure to sign-up for our Newsletter to receive even more exclusive insights, tips, tricks, and design inspo.

Ready to get started revamping your space?  We can help, learn more about our Virtual Design Services Here

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