Then you are going to need our tips and advice for creating the perfect outdoor space! Here are 10 ideas to keep in mind when getting your patio, deck and backyard party ready:
Most people think outdoor furnishings have to be hard and impermeable. But there are so many beautiful outdoor products these days that are weatherproof and comfortable, so there’s no reason to sit uncomfortably on metal benches and plastic chairs. Marcraft Homes recommends making your patio space as comfortable and inviting as possible.
2. Create a color palette.
As with any design, the first thing to consider is color. Choose a palette that makes sense for your outdoor space. If your space is urban and lacks a lot of natural green, bringing in color might be a smart move. If your space is plant-filled, consider the colors of the plants.
3. Map it out.
Just because your patio is outside does not mean it has to lose all functionality. Regardless of what kind of space you’re working with, plan it the same way you’d plan an indoor living room. Make sure there’s room to sit, to eat, to lounge and whatever else you plan on doing out there.
4. Go to the flea market and garage sales.
The flea market is one of the best places to find unique pieces for your home. And since store-bought patio furniture can get pricey quickly, buying a flea market set might be your best bet. Choose furniture with a structure you like—from there, you can always repaint, add cushions, and make it feel brand new again.
5. Add a little life. Literally.
Plants are the best accessory to a great terrace, patio or balcony. Plants make the space feel more alive and add that fresh, natural pop of color. If you’re still working on your green thumb, succulents or cacti are good beginner plants to start out with because they live off very little water and are pretty hard to kill. Work your way up to potted fruit trees, blooming bushes, and flowerpots when you’re ready to upgrade.
6. Underneath it all.
It may go overlooked, but what’s underfoot in your outdoor space is important too. An outdoor rug is one of our top three must-have patio items. Rugs are a great way to bring color and style outdoors, and most can be hosed or swept off if they get dirty.
7. Lighten up.
Outdoor spaces are great during the daytime, but they’re even better if they are setup to be used after sunset as well. We recommend making sure you have ample lighting so your guests aren’t blind if you’re hosting an evening happy hour or dinner party. From candles to outdoor chandeliers, options for outdoor lighting are endless.
8. Choose a statement piece.
If you’re decorating your patio from scratch, there’s no reason to get overwhelmed. Rome wasn’t built in a day, after all. It’s best to choose a large statement piece, which can be furniture (an outdoor sectional or dining table), plants (colorful flowers planted in painted pots), or even lighting (a flea market chandelier). Once you’ve made one decision it’s way easier to make the rest and keep everything cohesive.
9. Make some shade.
A patio that gets a lot of sunlight might feel wonderful during the colder months. But in the summer, it will probably be too warm for hanging out mid-day. Invest in a canopy or tent for a rooftop space or an area that’s uncovered. It looks gorgeous and allow you to entertain during the daytime, not just at night.
10. Look up!
While your furniture and plants might be the obvious showstoppers in your outside area, it’s important to consider decorating the more unusual places. Hanging flowerpots, hummingbird feeders, and wind chimes will add a whole new dimension to the above-eye-level areas.
Marcraft Homes is a luxury custom home builder, building and renovating quality residential homes in Metro Vancouver since 2003. Are you thinking of a major home renovation in Metro Vancouver? Call or email Andrea today and ask for the Marcraft Welcome Kit, our free information gathering tool you can use and share with the Marcraft team to help plan and organize your next home renovation project.