Extend the Enjoyment of Outdoor Living Spaces

With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, it's no surprise that homeowners are putting more effort into choosing the best outside decor for relaxing and entertaining at home on their decks, and not just in the summer time.

It's easy to enjoy outdoor areas in the autumn months by bringing indoor elements and conveniences outside. With a few added touches, your outdoor living space can help define your home's fall look and extend outdoor gathering time with family and friends.

+ Carry the colors, themes and patterns of your interior design to outside spaces with furnishings and accessories in materials that are all-weather friendly. Place cushions and pillows in weather-resistant and stylish fabrics on outdoor seating.

Reflect nature's autumn tones in outdoor rugs and set stylish throws and blankets on the back of chairs or sofas. In colder climates, place outside space heaters near seating areas.

 Outdoor areas that are exposed and lack privacy can become a welcoming space by hanging curtains. Strategically placed planter boxes filled with autumn blooms or decorative pots with tall, dense plantings provide an attractive screen from neighbors. Consider setting a durable, outdoor privacy screen around lounging areas.

 Proper lighting allows you to spend time in your outside room well into the evening. Determine which areas of your deck need brighter lighting, and which to downplay with softer light. Place candles, lanterns or outdoor lamps on tables or consider low-voltage landscape lighting, which is energy-efficient and affordable.

 Add to the serenity of your outdoor room by avoiding decor that distracts from or clashes with the exterior of your home. Decorations and furnishings in classic autumn shades that blend with the exterior of the house create a restful atmosphere and visually tie the outdoor living space to the exterior of your home.

If your outdoor living space is due for a complete overhaul, fall is the perfect time to consider replacing a worn deck and incorporating fresh design and color into your new outdoor area.

Courtesy of ARA Content