| interior design
Divide and Conquer
No matter what size your outdoor space, use the concept of space
planning to create comfort zones on your deck or patio. For a large
space, create separate spaces for eating, conversation and play.
The individual spaces will set a tranquil mood for each activity.
For example, four antique rockers pulled up to a fire pit or chiminea
will guarantee comfortable conversation. Keep the clutter of sand
boxes and water toys in the play area. The dining space should be
located close to kitchen access or your outdoor grill for ease of
entertainment.
The Sounds of Summer
Part of the charm of a summer evening is the relaxing tones of the
season. Plan your garden with water features. These soothing tones
can mask street noise, the buzz of the lawnmower next-door or noisy
neighbors. Even a simple tabletop fountain will do the job. A set
of wind chimes made of tubular steel or glass, or even bamboo, can
create an exotic, faraway feeling. Incorporate music with outdoor
speakers or a portable stereo.
Tame the Outdoors
Add a focal point to your outdoor living space. Tame the outdoors
with an architectural focus such as a pergola, trellis or antique
Victorian fencing. Simple garden statuary designed into the landscape
can create moods as diverse as Eastern, English Garden or classic
American backyard. All of these create a unique comfort zone and
a space that people will always remember.
Color Coordinate
Coordinate your outdoor colors with the features of your home. From
awnings and textile selections to flower pots, and florals…keep
a similar color palette to set a comforting mood. In addition, always
follow nature’s hint for designing an outdoor color scheme.
Visual pollution can be rampant when mixing colors not found in
nature such as neons or electric pastels. Instead try, terra cotta,
whites and any soothing shade of green.
The Tabletop
Incorporate the season in your outdoor tabletop when entertaining.
Wicker or rattan placemats set against the texture of outdoor linens
provide the base for almost any type of tableware. Even the Duchess
of Windsor incorporated potted red geraniums as centerpieces at
formal outdoor cocktail parties.
Portability a Plus
Tea carts and trays are a necessary component of a portable feast.
Before guests arrive, you can prep your cart with the evening’s
essentials to avoid distracting trips to and from the house. For
casual family dining, always keep a basket filled with plastic cutlery,
colorful paper plates and toss-away glassware for an impromptu outdoor
evening together. Even meatloaf tastes better outside. |
