This guest post is written by Jen Visosky, Interior Designer from Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
You always hear about bringing the outdoors in, but now it’s time to bring the indoors out. There are some classic indoor design techniques that we can apply to our outdoor spaces: Rugs, pillows, lighting, accessories, outdoor technologies and comfortable patio furniture can all go a long way in creating an outdoor oasis that has you excited to come home and head outside, instead of straight to the couch.
1. Create a Welcoming Outdoor Atmosphere
Imagine a backyard that makes you feel like you are on vacation. A yard where prying eyes cannot find you, where soothing sounds of water and music fill your ears as you lean back in a plush chair and put your feet up on the ottoman, all while warming your toes by the fire or sipping on a refreshing drink.
Sounds amazing, right? Designing outdoor rooms is all the rage right now, and creating this relaxing atmosphere is what makes your design a guaranteed success. Take a hint from your favorite indoor spaces. What design elements have you heading to your favorite room? It could be as simple as a comfy chair and a bookcase in your favorite reading nook. Whatever has you retreating inside, bring it outdoors. Pillows, carpets, chandeliers and even art can all help create the cozy outdoor retreat you crave. Just look for durable, weatherproof pieces that can stand up to the elements.
2. Make the Kitchen the Heart of Your Outdoor Home
Outdoor kitchens are hot right now, and I don’t think it’s a trend that’s going away anytime soon. I’m not just talking about adding a pizza oven—I’m thinking along the lines of a modern, sleek outdoor kitchen that rivals your interior one. From stainless steel cabinets and fridges to sinks and gas ovens complete with an overhead range, you can literally outfit your outdoor kitchen with all the modern amenities. This certainly puts a whole new meaning to the idea of a cookout!
3. Add Technology and Tunes
No home is complete without technology. We all crave huge televisions and smart sound systems. Luckily, there are plenty of gadgets that help you modernize your backyard while satisfying your techy side.
Relax on your porch or patio with a weather-resistant TV, or add a weatherproof smart stereo system that easily syncs to your downloaded tunes. Just because it’s an outdoor space doesn’t mean you have to forgo all the tech-savvy trends that are popping up in modern homes everywhere.
These three easy tips are all it takes to turn your backyard an oasis this summer. Incorporating all the modern indoor amenities into the out-of-doors goes a long way to creating the ultimate stay-cation—and don’t forget the s’mores! After all, some backyard kitsch is allowed.
Interior designer Jen Visosky makes her home in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and writes on interior and exterior home decor for The Home Depot. Jen’s patio recommendations are designed to give homeowners a myriad of options to create a truly amazing outdoor porch experience. To research patio furniture available at Home Depot, you can visit the company’s website.
