Friday, June 6, 2014

An Outdoor Area That Fits Your Tastes

An Outdoor Area That Fits Your Tastes

By Clive Morris


It's amazing to watch just how much the public consciousness changes over time, especially when it comes to design aesthetics. What was popular and common 20 or even 10 years ago might be tacky or outdated today. And there is a very distinct line between retro and just plain outdated. For most people who have lived in a home for a long period of time, the interior design has usually been updated a piece or two at a time, with certain items being replaced as they become old or broken. This can lead to a somewhat random design made up of a hodgepodge of different styles. It can be a surprise just how much a consistent plan and style can tie a room together and set a mood. This is true of outdoor areas as well, which is what we'll take about here.

The backyards of previous decades tend to have been designed with different sensibilities than modern ones. A well-groomed lawn and some chairs, a table and maybe a grill were all that most families wanted from their yards. For most, it was just a simple area to entertain now and then and unwind with some gardening. But more and more, people are making a shift toward "outdoor living". Especially in states with mild seasons, more people are designing their yards and patios with the idea of using it as a living space, just like the interior rooms of their home. People like having the option to enjoy a beautiful evening on their deck, perhaps reading, working, or even watching movies with a projector.

If you take a look at a home with great interior design, you will notice the careful balance of colors and styles. Though proper contrast helps emphasize and complement some features, there is always great care taken to avoid a clashing or chaotic look. The same is true for exterior design. When choosing items for your outdoor space, such as patio furniture, you don't want them to clash with the style of the home itself. If you look over the colors and architectural style of the house, you will have an idea of what style of furniture to look for.

For an inoffensive, versatile option, wicker can be used to great effect on a number of different styles and themes. It usually has naturally muted tones that do not clash with other designs and a refined look that is much more classy than plastic patio furniture. To match the color to a design scheme, you can usually find cushions in the color you are looking for.

For homeowners with a pool, the opportunity for aquatic themes opens up. You might opt for subtle beach or island designs for the furniture, and perhaps even have a tiki bar. But keep in mind that it can be easy for something like this to become cheesy and tacky if not designed right.

For a patio or deck, some people like a clean, contemporary style. This often either means brightly-colored, artistically designed furniture, or a items with lots of glass and chrome or stainless steel. Both of these can be used to make a futuristic, modern style.

Stone features can be used to awesome effect in landscaping. You might have stone walkways, benches and other seating areas to move around water features, such as ponds or waterfalls. Sometimes, you can incorporate cooking appliances into the landscape itself.

You have numerous options when it comes to designing an amazing outdoor living area. If you keep a steady plan in mind, it will be that much easier to capture something truly amazing.




About the Author:



Share This

No comments:

Post a Comment

Designed By Blogger Templates