The Great Outdoors: Extending your living space into your backyard

Houses are expensive, no matter where you live. Large houses are even more so. The price of a house per square foot has hit some high numbers, and the result is that most can only afford a smaller home. Unfortunately, we generally need more space than the small home provides. What can a homeowner do in these circumstances? Develop and use to the absolute maximum the space you do have. In many cases, this means creating an extra ‘room’ on your deck or patio, and creating a space that is more outdoor living rather than simply a yard

Start by figuring out how the outdoor space will fill a gap that is lacking in your home. Do you need an area to relax and sit in the hot tub or patio chairs and watch TV? Are you interested in a night garden, where patio lighting and candles make the area come to life? Maybe you’d like an outdoor kitchen; complete with everything you’d need to cook outdoors. Depending on what you would like to create, you should sit down and draw out a plan of attack. Assess your patio furniture and your landscaping. Decide on a budget and whether or not you are up to the task of creating the space yourself. You may want to consider hiring a landscape designer.

There are so many different types of patio furniture available now, and the bonus is that it doesn’t look like the traditional table, chairs and umbrella. There are sleek couches, chaises, and accent pillows to choose from, in a variety of stylish colors and sizes. Furniture that is meant to be used outdoors is created differently than indoor furniture. Often made from durable resin or other weather resistant products, this patio furniture will withstand the best of the elements. Don’t be tempted to purchase indoor furniture and place it outside. It will immediately show wear and tear. Consider the furniture you purchase to be a significant investment of your money.

Keep your feet clean and dry by laying out a large outdoor area rug. Outdoor rugs are often created from polypropylene and are layered with a UV protection coating so they will not fade in the sun. An outdoor rug creates a welcoming atmosphere in a way that simple concrete or patio tiles cannot and for a different look try braided outdoor rugs.

Decorative touches such as candles and plants can really make your space come to life. If your outdoor space is on a deck, you may consider mounting a small TV in the corner. Add a stereo in the corner or set up a small bar. A large fountain will provide a soothing trickle as background noise when you are relaxing and reading a book.

When you create an outdoor space, you will find you feel much more free within your home. The added benefit is that you now have a great place to invite friends, hang out, or just sit in solitude. You can’t go wrong when you create an outdoor living area.