11 Easy Ways To Create a Super-Inviting Outdoor Space

As summer approaches, your outdoor spaces call out your name!  Your patio, deck or porch really deserve attention. Why not create a space to escape to, read a book, sip on a cocktail or simply enjoy the outdoors? Family and friends might be joining you to celebrate summer and all its activities, so here are some ideas to get your space ready for whatever is ahead! 

1. Clean it up!!!

Get your hose or power washer out and get things clean.  Wash your patio, deck, chairs, tables…you name it, but make it shine! Starting with a clean a space will make it easier to focus on the details.

2. Plan the perfect layout.

Create zones in the space to make relaxing and entertaining easy. Put the dining table near the grilling area, create a lounging area for relaxing near the fire pit, add a hammock between the perfect trees, you got it!  Make it make sense! Be sure to choose durable furniture that is easy to care for. Teak, powder-coated metal and resin hold up very nicely.

3.Choose an outdoor rug or two!

Determine how many zones you have or how big your space is. This will help you decide how many rugs you need.  Bring in natural colors or bring out your inner boldness!  Even though the inside of my home is pretty neutral in color, I go bolder outside with greens, pinks, black and white! I figure, hey, it makes me happy!

4. Add plants!

Keep it simple or take it to the next level. If you don’t have a real green thumb like me, choose simple and colorful plants.  I love Mandevilla Plants. They come in pink, red or white and are easycare!  They are good in the sun, won’t dry out easily and won’t stain a patio with the dropping of the petals. I also LOVE ferns. They add life to any shady spot.  But, if you’re like Susie and know everything and anything about plants, flowers and shrubs…go wild with it! 

5. Add pops of color with pillows!

Making lounging areas comfy and cozy are key!  Add pops of color by adding fun pillows. Don’t forget to bring out a throw blanket to cuddle up in will keep you and/or your guests warm and cozy for longer. Summer doesn’t last as long as we’d like so take advantage of every second!

6 Umbrellas are a must for

sunny patios & decks

Choose a good-quality aluminum one for durability. Cranking handles make opening and closing a breeze.  Sunbrella or other outdoor canopy fabrics prevent fading and will keep your umbrella looking great for longer. Be sure to measure your table or lounging area. Getting an umbrella big enough that tilts (you may need two or three umbrellas) allows everyone to enjoy some shade.

7. Light it Up!

Patio string lights, solar lights, candlelight…any kind of light, just add it! I am CRAZY for solar lights! If it’s an area on my property that I want you to look at, there’s a light there! I even stick solar lights into my potted plants. Lighting moves your eye around the yard.

8. Bug Management

Natural bug repellents like citronella candles should be lit before the sun goes down. I also keep a couple of cute pots or baskets around my patio with different bug sprays for people to use. That way friends and family can grab them easily and spray themselves and their kids down. It’s right there and accessible, no need to wait for that first annoying bite!

9. Outdoor Games!

When we bought our first home, I couldn’t wait to get a corn hole set! My parents had one personally made for us. It comes out at every outdoor party we have, it’s always a hit and great for all ages.  I also have a tub or two of games for kids, if in attendance. Load it up with a soccer ball, frisbee, bubbles and/or flying disc launchers (always a huge hit).

10. Do yourself a favor…

get a fire pit.

A gas one, a smokeless one, a small fire pot or a real one, just get one. Sitting around a fire at night is something special.  That’s when I find real peace.

11. Did someone say smore’s?

I love making a s'more charcuterie board with different crackers, cookies and chocolates!  I buy the s'more sticks so that no one has to go searching in the woods for sticks. This is also when I bring out the glow sticks! I always try to keep some on hand, they are fun to have out around the fire pit.

Relax and soak it in. Enjoy the space you have created!  You now get to be cozy outside! Take in the sounds of the birds, crickets and the crackling fire while lounging comfortably with a cocktail or tea. However you enjoy the outdoors, do it with style!

Happy Summer from Amber and Susie at Home!