How to Design Outdoor Living Space

Turn a neglected outdoor area into a comfortable living space.

If there's an unused, paved area in your backyard, sideyard or out front, don't overlook the potential. After only a few days of work, or less, this area could easily become an outdoor room. This is a great idea if you have a small home and would like to add more living space, or if you just love to relax outside. Additionally, creating an outdoor living space is not just easy; it's also easy on the wallet.

Things You'll Need

• Awning
• Shade sail
• Patio furniture
• Accents: wall art, potted plants, outdoor rug, wind chime, lighting or water fountain

Instructions

1. 

   Protect your space from the sun with an awning.

   Create shade. You'll need to block the space from the damaging rays of the sun and from the rain, protecting you and your family from harmful UV and enabling use of your outdoor room regardless of weather conditions. Building a pergola, trellis or arbor can be costly. A less expensive option is putting up an awning to extend off the roof of your home over the space. Another economically priced option is a shade sail. Similar to awnings, shade sails are canvas stretched between three anchor points. One benefit of using a shade sail is that it can be set up anywhere; it does not need to extend off the roof.

2. 

   Use furniture that fits the space well.

   Add furniture. You can find patio furniture to fit any budget, from expensive custom-made pieces to a four-piece set for under $100---and if you're on a really tight budget, a few folding chairs will suffice. One main factor to consider when shopping is size. If your outdoor living space is small, buy appropriately sized furniture to avoid swallowing up all the space and making it seem small. Purchase a square table instead of a rectangular one. Or, for very small spaces, purchase a little round bistro table and two chairs.

3. 

   Use plants on a bare wall.

   Create ambience. A few homey touches will make your space cozy and comfortable. If there's a large bare wall, cover it with a curtain that matches your patio furniture, decorate it with outdoor-safe wall art, or soften the severity with a small potted tree or hanging potted plants. Set out an outdoor rug and hang a wind chime to tinkle in the breeze. Set up some lighting for enjoying the space after dark, and bring in the relaxing sound of water with a splashing water fountain.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens: 16 Great Patio Ideas
• HGTV: Patio Planning 101