Create a Soothing Outdoor Sanctuary – When you’re stuck at home, spending time outdoors can be like a mini retreat. Before Covid-19 sent us all home, you may have taken your patio for granted and now that spring has arrived, you may be finding ways to enjoy it a little more this season. -Text and Design by Maria Killam, As seen in our 2021 Cottage & Outdoor Living Special Edition – available to download for free today!
CLEAN & READY
When setting up my patio for the season, I start by having everything power washed so it’s clean and ready for me to enjoy as soon as it is warm enough to sit outside.
INSIDE OUT
Creating a look and a feel outside, just like you would inside, makes your house feel even bigger! Treat your outdoor patio just like a room, adding a mirror, sofa table, and accessories.
CREATIVE ACCESSORIES
Change up your accessories to give your space a fresh feel. I also move around my accessories (they rotate all through the house all year). For this look, I was enchanted with my three fat candleholders and how great they looked with my oversize faux coral.
Take advantage of pretty touches you have on hand. My kale was flowering so I picked some for one of my hundreds of vases/vessels.
DINING BASICS
Organize outdoor entertaining basics like flatware and dishes in a caddy – even if you are just entertaining your own family. You’ll be glad to have easy access for your al fresco dining.
HOME OFFICE
If you’re working from home, take your home office outdoors. You’ll find me all summer long, working in my outdoor living room with my laptop.
COZY TOUCHES
Include plenty of soft goods to create a cozy and inviting space. A blanket is perfect for those chilly evenings after the sun goes down and lots of throw pillows create plenty of comfy spots to relax.
CONSIDER THE ELEMENTS
Keep sun and exposure damage in mind when selecting pieces. My x ottomans aren’t covered in outdoor fabric, but they work outdoors all summer because they are under cover and they don’t get wet. They have definitely faded from sun exposure and will need to be re-done at some point! If you are especially fond or emotionally attached to a specific piece, make sure to consider the possible damage it may face before placing it outdoors.
As seen in our 2021 Cottage & Outdoor Living Special Edition – available to download for free today!
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