The term “living space” can be expanded to include more than just the rooms inside your home — it should include your available outdoor space, too. If there’s one thing we’ve learned from 2020, it’s that we miss gathering with friends and family to celebrate life in ways both big and small. Our living spaces are now the place where we live, work, go to school, play, and relax. After spending a year at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, folks are re-thinking how — and where — they live.
Creating An Outdoor Space You’ll Love Is As Easy As One, Two, Three
The three most important components of building a comfortable outdoor living space are found in style, function, and comfort. Whether you’re creating an outdoor dining room or a cozy study nook, these three concepts combined are the key to a harmonious design.
1.) Style
Style is different for everyone. Some people like very modern designs with straight lines and bold colors. Others may be more traditional and prefer lots of patterns in soft neutrals. To create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, try to use a similar color palette and style as is used in your home. If you’re looking for a style upgrade, the emerging trends for 2021 and beyond include rattan and wicker furniture, natural fabrics and recycled materials.
2.) Function
The function of your space is important and requires a lot of consideration. A well-planned space will give you the flexibility to grow and evolve with your family’s needs. If you enjoy cooking and entertaining, consider creating an outdoor kitchen and dining area. If relaxing with a good book and a glass of iced tea is more your speed, perhaps you’d like an intimate seating area. Remote working and learning are now quite common — consider creating a comfortable area where all members of the family can charge devices, laptops and get a breath of fresh air while they tackle their tasks.
3.) Comfort
The final component of a good design equation is comfort. Now, more than ever, people are searching for things that bring comfort into their lives. Comfort can be found in soft cotton throws and deep lounge chairs that you can sink into for the evening. Comfort also comes in other forms like warm colors, rich woods, and luxurious candles. Comfort can also be a simple hammock strung between two trees. Whatever you choose, a comfortable space should be a sanctuary for you and your family.
Outdoor Living Trends For 2021 And Beyond
Now that we’ve discussed the three most important components of creating an outdoor space that your family will enjoy for years, let’s talk about some of the emerging trends for Outdoor Living in 2021 and beyond.
Year-Round Gathering – Homeowners are enhancing their outdoor gathering spaces with upgraded seating, fire pits, heaters, and fireplaces. Having a usable outdoor space for entertaining friends and family is now a must-have.
A Desire for Privacy – In 2021, people are shifting many aspects of daily living activities to the outdoors. Whether you’re relaxing, exercising, or having a family dinner, a private space now ranks at the top of the list for home buyers. Options for creating privacy in your yard include fencing, large plants and trees, pergolas and gazebos, and all-weather drapery.
The Outdoor Office – Over the last year, remote working and learning have become a necessary part of life. Having the option of a secondary workspace gives your and your family freedom to work and learn where they’re most comfortable. A change of scenery can help reduce stress and improve concentration. Consider upgrading your WiFi for outdoor access and adding extra electrical outlets to your deck, patio, or porch. Consider installing an outdoor TV or Bluetooth speakers for a fully-connected experience.
Plants With A Purpose – The COVID-19 pandemic has made us rethink what we’re getting out of our gardens. Vegetable gardens, container gardening and composting all grew in popularity in 2020, and for good reason. Growing your own food can be fun, educational and delicious! If you don’t have space for a traditional garden, you can use pots and planters to grow fruits, vegetables and herbs on your patio.
I hope I have inspired you to take advantage of your usable outdoor space! Transforming your patio, deck, or porch into a place where you can relax, rejuvenate and maybe even get some work done can be simple, with the proper planning. Just keep the Style + Function + Comfort equation in mind and you’ll have a family-friendly, flexible outdoor space that everyone can enjoy.
In my next post, I’ll discuss how to use architectural elements to enhance your home.
Until then,
Laura
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