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Outdoor Spaces

Updated: Mar 28, 2024

How To Design the Perfect Outdoor Space for you Summer Enjoyment: A Professional's Guide


As a professional interior designer, I understand the importance of creating a stunning

outdoor dining with decorative lighting

outdoor space where you can fully embrace

the joys of summer. With the right design elements, your patio, terrace, or any other outdoor area can become a haven of relaxation and entertainment. In this article, I will share expert tips on designing an outdoor space that perfectly captures the essence of summer, including the thoughtful selection of outdoor furniture and the creation of a captivating ambiance.


1. Embrace Nature-inspired Design


To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of summer, draw inspiration from nature when designing your outdoor space. Incorporate natural elements such as lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and flowing water features. By blending your outdoor area with its surroundings, you create a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living.


lush and tropical outdoor space

2. Create Comfortable and Stylish Seating Areas


When it comes to outdoor furniture, prioritize comfort and style. Select seating options that invite relaxation and socializing. Plush lounge chairs with weather-resistant cushions, cozy outdoor sofas, and dining sets with comfortable chairs will encourage you to spend more time outdoors. Choose materials and fabrics that not only withstand the elements but also complement your desired aesthetic.


3. Consider Outdoor Dining Solutions


Designing an outdoor space that facilitates dining experiences is essential for summer enjoyment. Opt for a dining table and chairs that accommodate your desired number of guests. Consider the versatility of extendable or foldable tables that can adapt to various group sizes. To enhance the ambiance, accessorize your dining area with elegant tableware, statement lighting, and perhaps a shade solution like an umbrella or pergola.

outdoor dining with covered trellis

4. Enhance the Ambiance with Lighting


Thoughtfully designed lighting can transform your outdoor space into a magical retreat during the evening hours. Incorporate a combination of task lighting, such as wall sconces or pendant lights, and ambient lighting, like string lights or lanterns. Highlight focal points, such

string light covered outdoor space

as architectural features or landscaping elements, to create a captivating and inviting atmosphere.


5. Incorporate Shade and Privacy Solutions


To fully enjoy your outdoor space during the summer, consider incorporating shade and privacy solutions. Install retractable awnings, pergolas with adjustable louvers, or shade sails to protect against intense sunlight. Additionally, utilize outdoor curtains, privacy screens, or trellises with climbing plants to create a secluded oasis where you can unwind and escape from the outside world.

beautiful natural wabi-sabi outdoor space

6. Integrate Outdoor Accessories and Décor


Finishing touches and accessories can elevate the design of your outdoor space. Integrate decorative elements such as outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and cushions in vibrant colors and patterns to inject personality and style. Incorporate outdoor artwork, sculptures, or water features as focal points that enhance the overall visual appeal and create a unique outdoor experience.


7. Select Low-maintenance Materials


When designing your outdoor space, choose materials that are not only visually appealing but also require minimal maintenance. Opt for weather-resistant furniture made from

durable materials such as teak, aluminum, or all-weather wicker. Consider low-maintenance flooring options like composite decking or stone pavers. These choices will ensure that your outdoor space remains beautiful and functional with minimal upkeep.

Designing the perfect outdoor space for summer is a thrilling opportunity to extend your living area and create a haven of relaxation and enjoyment. By incorporating nature-inspired elements, prioritizing comfortable seating, considering dining solutions, enhancing the ambiance with lighting, integrating shade and privacy solutions, incorporating accessories and decor, and selecting low-maintenance materials, you can transform your outdoor space into a summer retreat that reflects your unique style and provides endless enjoyment throughout the season. Embrace the possibilities, and savor the delightful moments that summer brings in your beautifully designed outdoor haven.

perfectly unique outdoor furniture
 

Design Services

Need help pulling your Outdoor Space together? You've come to the right place! Christine is a professional Interior Designer, please contact us for Interior Design Services. We can help with the full design and documentation, provide assistance pulling the look together or help with sourcing something specific. We offer everything from Luxury Full Service Interior Design to Expert Advice and Virtual Design Intent Packages as well as hourly assistance options to help you with your specific design needs.

 

Shop Outdoor Furniture & Décor

Cley Atelier only sells or recommends carefully curated products. Products shown on our website are a combination of Custom Cley Atelier Products, Affiliate Recommendations & Drop Ship Products.

 

With outdoor furniture, quality materials and durability are very important especially if you want items that can hold up to the elements and last for more than one season!


Triplica Bunching Tables in Weathered Eucalyptus

 

REVERIE BENCH

 

NETTA CHAISE SECTIONAL

 

CLIFTON DINING TABLE


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Hi! I'm Christine

Your Go-To Expert for all things Interior Design.  I have a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design, a Masters in Architecture and over 20 years of professional experience!  If you're looking for expert advice or want to get your design project started now, then you've come to the right place!

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