It’s freaking summer! Living in Wisconsin, we have a very slim time frame where we get to lounge outside. And that becomes even slimmer with this wild smoke we are getting from the Canadian fires. 😳 With all that being said, having a tranquil sanctuary where you can escape the stresses of daily life is essential (especially when you’re like me and have a house under endless renovation and don’t currently have a living room!!) While we often focus on creating beautiful interiors, we absolutely cannot overlook the potential of our outdoor spaces. With some thoughtful design, you can transform your outdoor area into an inviting oasis, where you can unwind, entertain, and connect with nature. Today we’re going to explore ideas and tips to help you create a relaxing retreat in your own backyard.
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Define Your Outdoor Space’s Purpose
Before diving into the design process, determine how you intend to use your outdoor space. Are you looking for a cozy spot for reading and relaxation, a lively entertaining area for gatherings, or perhaps a combination of both? Understanding your needs and preferences will guide your design choices. From here, to help combat the overwhelm, create a checklist! Seriously. In my time working for an online design company, there is nothing that helps me in the shopping process than having a list. You need to tell the internet what you’re looking for, not the other way around.
Find Comfortable Seating
Invest in comfortable and weather-resistant seating options that cater to your desired activities. Lounge chairs, hammocks, or cozy outdoor sofas can transform your space into a cozy nook for relaxation. Consider adding cushions, throw pillows, and blankets for extra comfort and style.
I know first hand how tempting it is to just head to Wayfair for this part. Seating can become expensive very quick, but we’ve had our set from Wayfair for only three years now and I am currently looking to replace it. Those little conversation sets with two chairs, a loveseat, and a coffee table are tempting, but let me tell you those cushions are the most uncomfortable pieces of seating I own. Not only that but in the wild summer storms they’ve gotten broken, wood is splintering, and they just look a little worse for wear. This is your place to put your money where your mouth is and invest in something you’ll love in the long term. Below I have a few links to pieces that I think you’ll enjoy that I’ve had my eye on for myself as I wait for a sale. 👀
Shade and Shelter
I’m lucky enough to have an overhang on the back of our barn to not have to shop for this, but determine your specific set-up with this! You want to make your outdoor oasis usable throughout the day, so provide shade options. Install an umbrella, canopy, pergola, or retractable awning to shield from the sun’s intense rays. Alternatively, consider incorporating natural shade elements like trees, tall plants, or a gazebo for added charm and privacy. Even one of those sail style tarps will work here, and don’t look half bad either!
Add some nature to your patio space
Embrace the beauty of nature by incorporating lush greenery into your outdoor retreat. Plant a variety of flowers, shrubs, and potted plants to create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding a vertical garden or herb wall for a touch of freshness and fragrance. I also will bring my indoor plants out to my space. It gives them a great chance to grow in this season and I usually see some major improvements after a winter of neglect.
Ambient Lighting
I will literally scream from the rooftops about how important lighting is, inside and out. You need to extend the usability of your outdoor space into the evening hours with well-planned lighting. To create the most relaxing environment opt for soft and warm lighting fixtures. String lights, lanterns, or solar-powered pathway lights will create a cozy and enchanting ambiance. Illuminate key features like seating areas, pathways, and landscape elements to enhance safety and aesthetics.
Add a Water Feature
The soothing sound of flowing water can add a calming effect to your outdoor oasis. Consider incorporating a small fountain, a trickling waterfall, or even a pond to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The gentle sound of water will help mask any unwanted noise and create a soothing environment.
Outdoor Dining:
If you enjoy hosting outdoor gatherings or dining al fresco, make sure to include a designated dining area in your design. Install a sturdy outdoor table and chairs that can withstand various weather conditions. Enhance the ambiance with outdoor-friendly tableware, lighting, and comfortable seating to create memorable dining experiences under the open sky. This is our most-used area of our outdoor setup! A few things to think about when shopping, is comfortable seating (learn from my mistakes), and add a buffet cabinet to keep your dish-ware and outdoor serving sets in and stop taking up space in your kitchen!
Outdoor Entertainment
For those who enjoy entertainment options outdoors, consider incorporating elements like an outdoor sound system, a projector, or a fire pit for cozy gatherings. Create zones for different activities, such as a designated area for games or a built-in barbecue for outdoor cooking.
Transforming your outdoor space into a relaxing retreat is a fulfilling endeavor that allows you to enjoy nature, unwind, and connect with loved ones. By incorporating comfortable seating, shade options, natural elements, ambient lighting, water features, and privacy considerations, you can create an outdoor oasis that suits your needs and promotes tranquility.
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