Ten Decorating Ideas for Outdoor Spaces

December 15, 2010

Spending time outdoors is one of the top benefits of the warmer months. Whether you're dining, cooking, swimming, or lounging, now is the time to prepare outdoor spaces that are perfectly suited for your activities.

Meet Your Needs… and Wants

A Shady Retreat

Stringing up a canopy is an easy and elegant way to create a shady spot that's all your own. Perfect for areas where natural shade does not exist, a simple canopy creates an instant seating area.

Breakfast Nook

A café table with simple chairs and light linens creates a perfect space for outdoor dining in the AM hours. Take your coffee outside and enjoy the best part of the day.

Table for Two

When planning outdoor seating, the focus is often on large groups. However, a little niche for two can be easily planned, as well. Not a lot of space is required for a small table and two chairs, and the effect is cozy and intimate.

Outdoor Shower

After a day at the beach or an afternoon of yard work, having an outdoor shower is a convenient way to cool off and rinse off. Many outdoor showers hook up to the garden hose for the utmost simplicity.

Make a Scene

Seats With a View

Take advantage of the scenery around you when planning outdoor seating. If you're lucky enough to have a lake or seaside view, have a table with chairs facing the water. Or pick another lovely area of your yard to show off.

Focal Points

Outdoor dining tables can benefit from an eye-catching centerpiece, be it a large lantern, flower arrangement, or sculpture.

Outdoor Living Room

Choose versatile indoor/outdoor furniture and playful color schemes for an outdoor space that really feels like home. A small sofa and a couple of lounge chairs make the perfect seating area for guests, or for solo lounging.

Double Duty Solutions

Dining Table Turned Day Bed

Martha Stewart suggests using a low Japanese-style table for outdoor dining, with over-sized cushions on the floor for seating. When you want to convert the table into a day bed, simply use the cushions as a mattress.

Storage on Display

Nesting tables are perfect for decoration, and can hold small items like decorations, books, or magazines. Metal or wooden racks are another smart idea for storage that can also double as décor.

Don't Forget the Details

Accent Items

Items like candles, tablecloths, and fresh flowers can put the finishing touches on your outdoor oasis. All the small things really come together to create a picture perfect outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.

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