Create a Backyard Oasis

Rethinking the Patio

Do you love your outdoor space?  We spend a lot of time making our lawns and gardens exactly the way that we want them.  However, when all that hard work is done, you need a space to sit back and enjoy it.  We eat, lounge, socialize and even work in these spaces, but the design is often left as an afterthought.  It’s time to rethink the patio and discover how a few accessories can transform your space into an extension of your home!

 

Functional Designs 

You can’t have a conversation about creating a space outdoors without talking about furniture. The materials used in outdoor furniture are designed to withstand the wear and tear from weather including rain, wind, and sun. However, today’s manufacturers believe that you shouldn’t have to compromise design for functionality, which is why these sets often include comfortable, cushiony seating and aesthetic designs.

Patio furniture is an investment. Why not maximize this investment by choosing a set that has dual usage? Sofa sets like the Monaco offer a coffee table at a dining height making it easy to use the set for both lounging and mealtime.

If you’re looking for something a little less traditional, why not try a modular set?  These sets are available in either a left or right configuration providing the perfect place for a casual evening chat.   On those nights that you want to use it for a BBQ, simply pop out the pieces for additional seating.

 

Add a bit of wow to your living space by choosing a set that mirrors a cozy family room including outdoor couches and loungers. The Swansea Love seat Set offers you an outdoor lounging collection including a cozy sofa, two reclining chairs, a coffee table, and two ottomans. This will instantly transform your outdoor space into a functional seating room. During meals, the ottomans can easily be pulled to the table providing the perfect size seating for children.

 

Take your morning coffee outdoors by adding in a charming bistro set to a covered porch or an unused corner on your deck.  These smaller sets are ideal for balconies or to add a second seating area to a larger space.   

 

Dress up your Space

Outdoor carpets have become a designer’s dream with their extensive range of patterns and colours. These beauties instantly transform a deck into an outdoor room by adding colour and design to your space. Available in traditional rectangular or round, add one or a few to your outdoor space for a pop of personality. As an added benefit, mats  provide you with a palette that you can apply to the other accessories in your outdoor setting including pots, place settings, umbrellas, and of course, outdoor cushions.

 

Just like your indoor spaces, cushions are a great way to add a pop of personality to your outdoor room. Outdoor cushions are now available in several colours and designs making it easy to find the ones that are perfect for your home.

 

When designing your outdoor living space, don’t forget about the accessories. In fact,  garden accessories can be strategically used to divide the area into different experiences. Strategically placing bird feeders and bird baths near a bistro set or lounge chair, for example, will instantly transform the area into a bird watchers paradise. 

Adding in water features like patio ponds and outdoor fountains will beautifully transform the space with the relaxing sound of water.  These products are available in a range of styles and sizes, making it easy to discover the one that is best for your space.

 

Create an Outdoor Office Space

Are you working from home?  Privacy screens make it easy to take your office outdoors by instantly transforming part of your outdoor space into a private nook. Expandable screens with everlasting greenery add an instant element of serenity to your space. These are perfect for an outdoor office space, meditation, yoga, or to create a quiet nook to read your favourite book.

 

Take on the Night

Creating an outdoor room is an investment, so why not maximize it by adding in accessories that will transform the space from day to night?

Music and lighting instantly provide that evening atmosphere.  The key is finding creative ways to integrate these into your spaces without compromising the overall design.  One of our favourite ways to do this is with umbrella lights.                             

 

Finalize your lighting design by strategically placing solar lights throughout your outdoor plants and patio décor. Choose from traditional lights or add in a few artistic pieces including plant stakes, wind chimes, and solar baths that incorporate solar lights into their design.

 

The beauty of your outdoor living space is that it is easy to create an environment that fits the personality of your household.  It is about taking a moment to decide on the purpose of the space and then having fun exploring the accessories that will help bring that atmosphere to life.