How to Design a Gorgeous Outdoor Retreat
A well designed outdoor space offers a retreat from an increasingly frenetic world. As we increasingly embrace holistic self-care while sheltering in place, I am designing outdoor living spaces that offer my clients a sanctuary of calm and wellness with every little space bringing them a moment of joy.
Those moments of joy can be translated into ivy spilling down the walls, impressively tall potted plants, a dining table lit by low-hanging rattan lights, and the faint scent of salt water and thyme in the air. It’s an atmosphere that invites you to stay and hang out for a little while—which was exactly the point.
Would you like some help designing your outdoor space? I'm sharing my five easy steps to creating an outdoor space that I hope brings you moments of joy in your day!
Step 1: Imagine How You Would Love to Use the Space
Start by thinking of how you would like to use your outdoor space. Do you want to have your morning coffee as a couple outside? Are you looking forward to entertaining the family this summer with a relaxing bbq and yard games? Do you want to cozy up on a lounge chair with a good book and reflect on your day with a glass of wine? Now is the time to let your imagination run free and dream up a fabulous space!
A great outdoor space can offer a fresh perspective on your day. Jump onto Pinterest for some inspiration or grab a pad of paper and take a few moments to jot down ideas of what you want your space to look like and feel like before moving onto the next step.
Step 2: Plan to Layer the Space from the Ground Up
There’s no rule book mandating what outdoor design should be. Let indoor comforts, like plush seating, side tables, and unexpected elements of art guide the way. It’s imaginative ideas like these that bring out your personality and add sass to your space!
Step 3: Consider Outdoor Furniture
If your patio is rather large, create separate moments within the space for talking, lounging, and dining. You can do communal seating at one large table to emphasize the length of the space. Another thing to consider is the wear and tear furniture can get outdoors. Think about investing in longer lasting materials such as teak and steel, which is designed to weather the elements.
Step 4: Embrace Outdoor Fabrics for Comfort
It is important to keep the palette neutral to let nature be the star of the show. Choose fabrics and textiles in earth tones, creams and whites, and cool greys (my favorite!) to allow the emerald plants to shine.
Step 5: Add Some Beautiful Final Touches
A wall of greenery is a statement. Add a wall of greenery with an inventive twist, like four mirrors that bounce light and reflect the view. This allows people who are sitting to capitalize on the views and your new lovely environment!
As the weather starts to improve and the flowers start to bloom this Spring, get out of the house by designing your own outdoor living space that is inviting and peaceful.
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Cheers to a great summer!
Michelle