Creating an Outdoor Room

When designing and decorating our homes, we often focus more on the interior rather than the exterior. After last year, however, we’ve come to realize that outdoor living spaces rank pretty high on the necessity list. Spending more time at home has taught us that porches, decks, patios, and even wide open spaces, are hot commodities. While the need for outdoor spaces has hit a peak more than ever before, it can still be hard to know where to start. 

It’s important to understand that outdoor spaces should be looked upon as extensions of our homes and therefore decorated in a way that reflects the same style we so proudly display behind closed doors. With some careful planning, just about any outdoor space can be transformed into an outdoor room. Once you determine the purpose and define the space, the rest will fall into place.

Determine the purpose

Knowing what the outdoor space will be used for will help determine how much space is needed and where it will need to be located. Do you plan on cooking and eating outside? If so, you’ll want to plan for a kitchen (or at least a grill). Will you entertain friends and family? If yes, how much seating will you need? 

What about privacy? Perhaps a screen, partition wall, or some simple curtains will help. Is ample lighting a necessity? If yes, then you might want to plan out if you’ll install more lights or simply string some up. 

The bottom line is that the more specific you are in regards to the needs and wants for this space, the less likely you’ll encounter future problems.

Define the space

Any space is more easily defined when several elements are used. For example, an outdoor rug, pavers, or gravel can create flooring in your outdoor room. Strategically planting trees and shrubs or scattering potted plants can section off the room from the rest of the outdoor space. A pergola or an overhead arbor can clearly define a seating area. Sheer curtains and screens are great for providing privacy and giving the illusion of walls. Intimate seating areas can be created simply by arranging furniture. These are just some of the ways you can define the space of your outdoor room.

Be wise with the details

Now comes the fun part: the decorating details. Instead of jumping in head first, think it through so you don’t end up wasting time, effort, or money. For instance, if you have ample shade then something such as an umbrella is unnecessary. If you only plan to host casual get-togethers, it’s unlikely you’ll need a large dining table. If you get ample sunlight, you may be able to get by with more solar-powered lights than someone whose outdoor room receives more shade. Focus on only getting furniture pieces you’ll use, rather than purchasing a packaged set. 

When you do get outdoor furniture, keep in mind that it may be exposed to the elements at times. Because of this, it’s important to purchase something that’s weather-resistant and easy to maintain. Some great options include teak, bamboo, wicker, and rattan. Not only are they well-suited for outdoor living, but they are also lightweight and easy to move. Iron is another wonderful option for outdoor furniture. In regards to fabrics, think performance fabrics like Sunbrella. We carry durable Sunbrella fabrics in beige, green, heather, red, taupe, and white, which are sure to make any outdoor furniture look beautiful.

Remember, your outdoor room should be an extension of the interior of your home. Therefore, a good rule of thumb is to start decorating from the inside, out. By following this process, it’s much easier to achieve a cohesive look that makes the outdoor room feel as though it’s part of the house, rather than apart from the house. The overall goal should be to visually connect it to the house. Even if your outdoor room is an independent feature, such as a gazebo, creating something like a passageway with foliage or hardscaping can make it appear to be joined to the house. 

Performance Fabrics and Accessories at Cutting Corners

When the time comes to create and decorate your outdoor room, let us help. Not only do we have a nice selection of beautiful performance fabrics, but we also have a wide variety of decorative accessories that could make the space even more inviting. 

Be sure to stop by our showroom for great deals on our discount designer fabrics. You will find something for every home interior project from gorgeous drapery fabrics to lightweight cottons and luxurious Dupioni Silks.