Celebrate the Outdoors This Summer

By Lorigilder @lorigilder

This weekend the temps are going to soar here in LA which means that summer is officially here!  This is one of my favorite seasons  for casual gatherings with friends, mostly due to the fact that the weather is ideal for outdoor cookouts and garden parties. So it makes sense that one of the most sought-after home improvement projects over the past several years are comfortable and well-designed outdoor living spaces.  Homeowners in every climate are looking for better ways to enjoy the company of friends in the fresh air in an effort to extend the summer lifestyle.

An outdoor living area can be designed with all the comforts of an indoor space while allowing you to fully take advantage of the gorgeous summertime weather, whether it’s having friends and family over for a barbecue or simply having a place outside where you can enjoy a few quiet moments to yourself.

Here are a few design tips to consider implementing for your outdoor space.

  • Garden Retreat – Create an outdoor space that utilizes a pergola to help shade you from the sun without completely blocking the light. For an area like this, introduce a number of different plants, trees and flowers to help provide a calm and relaxing atmosphere – perfect for reading a book in the afternoon!

  • Outdoor Living Room – Planning on entertaining more than a few guests during the summer? A subtle transition from the interior to exterior  will provide you with more livable square footage.  Build an outdoor living space directly outside of your home to help bring some of your indoor comforts out. This elegant extension will provide you with a mini home “resort” feeling which will enhance your quality of life and increase the value of your property!

  • Patio Space – Sometimes, all you need is a small patio. If you like spending casual time with friends, family or by yourself, then a patio is the perfect place to do it. Add a table and surround it with comfortable seating of your choice for an easy to maintain and enjoyable patio area.

These are just a few design tips for your home that you can use to create an outdoor area to enjoy. For more architectural interior design advice, please visit me at Interior Makeovers.

Photo Credits:

1.) House Beautiful

2.) Pinterest

3.) Pop  Sugar