OUTDOOR SPACE

Go Ahead, Step Outside!

It’s that time of year again. Holidays are over, a new year has begun, and it is beautiful outside here in Arizona. The weather is so unpredictable and can go in a 40 degree swing between the morning and afternoon. We layer our clothing so we're prepared to remove a sweater or coat if needed. We believe your home should be the same way. You should be able to use your outdoor space as an extension of your overall living space during the cold of winter or in the the heat of summer. To accomplish this you just add or remove layers.

By extending your living space outdoors, you immediately add square footage to your life. Why not enjoy that footage as you would inside your home. It is easy, enjoyable and outdoor space can be extremely relaxing. Just by adding a few portable heaters or a portable fire pit you can enjoy your new space during all weather conditions.

First, make a plan. How do you want to expand your space? Do you want a living area, outdoor kitchen, bar area or perhaps a fire pit with comfortable chairs? You decide.

Consider your view or focal point then maximize that area. If you have an eye sore in the backyard, take a couple of days and clean it up, make space for that fire pit or a horseshoe field to enjoy. It can be that simple.

There are great selections of outdoor furniture available and great fabrics to further customize the look you're after, so get rid of the plastic chairs you once bought in isle 2 of your neighborhood market and upgrade a little. You can even recover extra pieces you have in your home currently by upholstering or slip covering them in a cheery outdoor fabric. Painting any useful tables or benches is an easy project. You can paint a wall or two as a beautiful backdrop for a piece of art or wall fountain. Adding some potted plants or flowers is another way to create a beautiful spot to enjoy. Create several seating areas that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. Teenagers prefer sectional, open space areas for themselves and their friends to congregate.

Don’t forget the lighting! Lights add drama and excitement to any space, including outdoors. Simple string lights from a tree or patio overhang can provide a wonderful source of lighting. Hang paper lanterns on a tree in the distance. Now more than ever before you can find great floor lamps for outdoor use at very affordable prices. Caution, make certain your lighting is UL approved for outdoors! Candles either on tables or staked in the ground are always an enjoyable source for light. Have your landscaper add lights to your trees and cacti, talk about drama!

If you have a patio overhang, don’t forget you can actually hang outdoor draperies. You can tie them back most of the time but can use them to block out a forbidden afternoon sun. This automatically comforts your soul, adds an instant softness to the hardscape and can have huge dramatic impact. Make certain to use outdoor fabric for both function and durability.

If you want to add hardscape with built in kitchens or fireplaces, consult a designer for the best possible layout and materials to use. Otherwise, it takes just a bit of imagination and elbow grease to make the most of your great outdoor area. So go ahead, step outside and enjoy your outdoor space.