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Create a Fabulous Outdoor Living Space
By PAShopGirl | June 20, 2008
One of the greatest and probably most functional trends in home decorating is bringing the indoors outside. Using a patio or garden area as a lounge or entertainment space is an opportunity to maximize the square footage of a home and create an extra but usable ‘room’. The anchor of a great outdoor living space is furniture. Wood outdoor furniture is both classic and modern, offering years of lasting use. Teak patio furniture in particular is a popular choice due to its durability against the elements as well as against pests that can make it last for generations. Another popular wood choice is cedar, also for durability but specifically because of its color which starts at a red or brown and ends in a silvery tone. Other popular choices of wood outdoor furniture are cypress, knotted pine and Brazilian hardwoods.
The most important thing to keep in mind when selecting which wood to use is the outdoor environment of the home and then the features of a particular wood. If the living space is to be on a lawn or garden, then there will be different durability and style requirements than that of poolside patio furniture. Teak patio furniture would be best in a lawn or garden setting due to its strong moisture and rot resistance whereas Brazilian cherry wood paints and stains well (teak does not) and would look fabulous next to a glistening blue pool.
Once the furniture is chosen and the style is established, it is time to bring in the right personal touches. First consider the fabrics. Choose cushions with weatherproof covers if they are to be used or a warm thick blanket if the space will be used during the evening or winter. Next, think about the kind of dishware to use. What is an outdoor entertaining space without some drinks and snacks? Finally, choose the items that make the finishing touches: the lighting and decorating accessories. These accessories should compliment the outdoor furniture chosen for the space. Candles in tall hurricane glasses with sand would compliment poolside furniture. A string of small paper lantern lights would soften and illuminate a patio space. Once these finishing touches are applied, your outdoor space can become like a second living room.
Topics: Outdoor Living | No Comments »
