Maximize Your Outdoor Space this Fall

Sometimes we spend so much time focusing on our interior living spaces that our patios, porches, and outdoor areas get neglected. Why not give that slightly sad patio some TLC? In the South especially, fall is a great time to redesign your outdoor living spaces and enjoy some refreshingly cool weather after a long, hot summer. Plus, if you are considering selling your home in the near future, transforming your outdoor space will definitely impress future buyers and may help bring in a higher price.

Whether you’re about to embark on a full outdoor redesign or a minimal update, jumping in tomorrow or planning for the spring, these design tips will help you transform your patio, porch, or lawn into the ultimate outdoor experience. 

Design for Lifestyle

Before you get started, consider how you will be using your space. Perhaps you’d like a small sitting area for quiet mornings and a cup of coffee with a close friend, or maybe you want a versatile design perfect for entertaining large parties. Your intentions for your outdoor space will influence your design.

Creative Seating

Outdoor living spaces allow for greater furniture flexibility. When selecting outdoor furniture, look for pieces that are multi-functional and offer storage solutions. Maximize space by getting something that will be suitable for both a large party and a quiet evening in. Experiment with fun alternative seating like a hammock or daybed.

Pillows and Rugs

Floor pillows and plush ottomans provide additional seating and warm up your outdoor space. You can also invest in an outdoor rug that will unify and ground the area. Like with an indoor floor plan, rugs can create distinction and intentional spaces, especially if you are dealing with a large area that will serve multiple purposes.

Lighting

Lighting can transform your outdoor space from drab to dreamy in an instant. Whether you invest in a large light fixture or a string of Edison bulbs, intentional, highly stylistic lighting will illuminate your living area and create an infinitely more inviting space.

If you are decorating an uncovered patio, don’t forget to incorporate a pergola or other covering to provide shade during the middle of the day! This will keep your patio from overheating and provide a nice frame on which to string lights.

Plants

Plants bring life and interest to your outdoor living area. Sprinkle a few potted plants of varying sizes to brighten things up. If you are working with a small space like an apartment balcony, you can create a vertical garden filled with flowers or edible plants. Just make sure they get enough sunlight!

If you are decorating an uncovered patio, don’t forget to incorporate a pergola or other covering to provide shade during the middle of the day! This will keep your patio from overheating and provide a nice frame on which to string lights.

Curtains and Partitions

Add an element of privacy to your porch by hanging a partition. Anything from a light curtain to repurposed shutters can be used to create a more private sitting or dining area in a situation where your patio is shared with a neighbor. Additionally, curtains can add a luxurious feel to your space and provide sun protection if needed.