A Beginner’s Guide to Designing Your Outdoor Space

Creating that perfect outdoor oasis is SO exciting, isn’t it? It’s like planning your own personal vacation spot right in your backyard. But knowing where to even start can feel a little overwhelming.

Do you want a super chic space for friends? A clean and simple spot to relax? Or something with all the fun extras for entertaining?

Fear not! Whether you’re dreaming of a gorgeous area for parties or just a lazy place to hang out, these ideas will make designing your outdoor space SO much easier.

1. Get Comfortable

Go for extra cushions! It gives the whole spot a really grand feel, almost like a second living room. You’re aiming for a vibe that’s crisp, fresh, and totally chic. I love adding some wooden pieces too; it brings in just a hint of rustic warmth.

If you’re going to be spending a lot of time out there, getting comfortable seating is just essential. Honestly, the comfort of your guests is key if you want to create that perfect, inviting space.

I always say to choose pieces that you really love, but also ones that make the area feel like a true extension of your indoor style.

2. Add Custom Lighting

This is how you bring the charm! Using multiple light fixtures is a great way to expand the decor and just bring the whole space to life. The main thing is to use fixtures that add beauty. You could even try some colored lights if you want a more contemporary vibe.

Okay, outdoor lighting can be a little tricky, mostly because there are just SO many options to pick from. You could go for a really chic chandelier, add some smaller fixtures, or aim for something more romantic.

Honestly, I love mixing a few different types together. It gives the whole space a really well-rounded feel.

3. Bring on the Fireplace

A fireplace is just the perfect addition for creating a cosy atmosphere. I’d recommend making it the main focal point by keeping the rest of the decor in the space simple.

Is there any better way to get that super cosy feeling than with a fireplace? Adding one is pretty much always a good idea when you’re going for that classic, cosy aesthetic.

You can pair your furniture with it or even arrange your seating right in front for the perfect soothing vibe.

4. Embrace Color

Color just brings so much personality and perspective. Adding a rustic shade works beautifully if you want a cozier, more intimate feeling. But if you want a more fun vibe, lighter hues are probably your best bet. You can totally mix them, too, for a perfect blend.

Just because you’re outside, don’t shy away from using color! In fact, I think it’s the perfect addition to your decor.

Bring in those vivid hues with pillows, flowers, your seating, or even all of them. You could also add a really bold outdoor rug.

5. Take Advantage of the Space

Whether your space is big or small, you really want to use every single inch. It brings a perfect contrast and fills the area. If you’ve got a smaller spot, think about just having a dining table. A simple table can fill the space while still leaving room for other decor pieces.

Using every single inch of space you have is one of the absolute best ways to decorate and make the area feel as warm and inviting as possible.

It’s all about creating a custom space that just comes to life. Every bit of your outdoor area should feel like it’s being used perfectly.

6. Provide Shelter

After you’ve figured out what kind of shelter you want, try to match your furniture and decor to its aesthetic. This creates a “matchy-matchy” effect that I think is SO charming and chic. I really love the idea of using neutrals and then working in some cool light fixtures and a few pops of color.

First things first, you definitely want to have some kind of shelter. This lets you hang out outdoors no matter what the weather is doing. It’s also pretty essential if you think you’ll be entertaining a lot.

If your house doesn’t have a sheltered space already, don’t worry. There are great additional options, like a gazebo, a pergola, or even a canopy.

7. Maybe a Pool

Your pool area can be the absolute perfect spot for lounging, but only if you have the right furniture. The more comfortable it is, the better! It’ll make you want to spend time outside. Try using some blue hues in your seating to bring those relaxing pool vibes right over.

If your outdoor living area is big enough to handle a pool, why not go for it? You could even repurpose an old stock tank for a really convenient smaller pool, or you could create a totally custom unit. That’s how you get that amazing “vacation” aesthetic right at home.

8. Accessorize

Accessories are just essential for bringing a space to life. They add so much vitality, beauty, and cohesiveness. Plus, adding accessories helps expand the space and really makes it feel like an extension of your living room.

You absolutely can’t forget to accessorize the space! Just like you’d add accent tables or a center table inside, you should do the same for your outdoor area. This is what brings that comfy living room feel outside, making it just as comfortable as your indoor decor.

9. Go Simple

You really don’t need a ton of different decor items to create a cosy space. You can just use a few bits and pieces that make sense for the size of your area. Add a cosy rug, a few light elements, and some comfortable seating. That’ll give you a well-put-together look without feeling “too much.”

You know, sometimes “too much” really is just too much. If you feel like your space is getting a bit cluttered, it probably is. That’s when you might need to just go simple.

Try adding only a few bits of furniture here and there. The goal is to have just enough decor for everything you need, but the space still feels simple and clean.

10. Bring on the Dining

Even when you’re decorating an outdoor dining table, comfort is always a good idea. I love adding a cool seating area, like a bench, and pairing it with a few comfortable chairs. It’s the perfect relaxing touch.

Why create an outdoor space just for sitting and enjoying the view when you could have a whole dining area, too?

If you’ve got a large enough space, you should definitely consider adding a dining spot that feels comfortable and charming. Or, you could go all out with a lavish, large space that brings a really modern feel into the mix.

I hope these tips help you create the absolute perfect space for you and your family! Do you have any other amazing ideas that I didn’t mention? Please share them with us in the comments below!

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