How Do You Want to Use Your Outdoor Space?

You love the outdoors and cook out every night it’s not raining. Or, maybe you want to extend your living space for an outdoor reading nook. Or, you don’t have a yard but you do have a small deck or balcony and want to be able to entertain outside.

The first thing to consider when designing your outdoor space is the kind of area you have. Do you live with an apartment balcony, screened in porch, deck, patio or large backyard? How much space is there? And, most importantly, what do you want to do outside?

The classic high bistro table is ideal for a small balcony. For extra style and comfort buy cozy cushions for the chairs. You may even have enough room for a few colorful flowers. For low maintenance flowers consider lantana, black-eyed susan and sedum (so many varieties!). For privacy the lemon and ficus are very popular.

 

If you prefer an outdoor living room consider buying a loveseat and side table. Even on a narrow balcony most loveseats should easily fit (measure, please!) and provide you with a very cozy place to have your morning coffee. Many conversation seating sets are made in sections and can be made larger or smaller, depending on your space. All sets have matching side tables or coffee tables.

What if you have a large space and love to entertain? Then go for it all. If you have the capacity design your outdoor space to include both a dining table and a conversation area. Maybe throw in a couple of chaise lounges as well. This will give you lots of options on what you want to do each day and allow for entertaining large and small groups.