Summer is just around the corner and everyone is anxious to spend some serious time outside. Here in Southern California warm summer weather tends to last a good 7 months or so – substantially longer than many other parts of the country – so outdoor living is a way of life around here.
A couple of weeks ago I wrote about the 7 Tips To Consider When Designing Your Ultimate Outdoor Escape. And since I’m now in the midst of planning a charming outdoor living space for my client that will compliment the new interior space, I thought it would be helpful to provide you with some added details to help you transform your yard into a beautiful outdoor paradise this summer.
Designate Zones That Reflects Your Family’s Lifestyle.
- Know the activities that you want your outdoor space to have.
- Playing: Sports Court, grassy area or swing set.
- Lounging: Pool and/or spa, chairs and chaises or built-ins.
- Cooking: Outdoor kitchen or simple barbeque area.
- Entertaining/Dining; Dining area, fireplace or firepit.
- Elevated deck or patio.
Outdoor Kitchen Details.
- If at all possible and layout allows, plan your outdoor cooking areas as close to your indoor kitchen as possible. A shorter distance of travel transporting food back and forth will make outdoor entertaining easier.
- Connect your grill to a permanent fuel line and avoid those propane tanks all together.
- If budget and space allows, keep the indoor/outdoor traffic to a minimum and install a sink, refrigerator and even dishwasher, and extra space to store your outdoor tableware.
Built-Ins.
- If space is at a premium build in your seating.
- Nestle a banquette-like sofa into your deck or patio, and build them out of the same decking material to give them a more architectural and integral appearance. Provide storage below for seat cushions and pillows.
Don’t Forget the Shade.
- For protection from the mid-day sun and those long hot days – add a trellis or pergola overhead. Umbrellas and awnings will also do the trick and shade you and your guests as well.
- Wrap vines or bougainvillea up the trellis or pergola for some additional shade cover and color as well.
Extend The Summer.
- If you feel that summer is just flying by, extend the season by designing a permanent outdoor fireplace, firepit and patio heaters to keep you warm during the cooler autumn temperatures.
I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report:
“15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation”
Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2010 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.
