Once a deck or patio has been constructed and furnished, the real fun begins. A few well-chosen accessories will add charm and personality to an outdoor living room, creating a lovely space for entertaining guests or spending a quiet summer evening.
Outdoor Accessories
Regardless of the type of furniture placed in an outdoor living room, cushions and pillows should be added for exceptional comfort, softness and style. Cushions should be made from all-weather fabric, as it is fade-resistant, mildew-resistant and easy to clean. Many fabric manufacturers are adding outdoor fabrics to their lines, making it easier than ever to find a color, pattern and style to suit your look.
Exterior fabrics also work well for draperies inside an outdoor living space. These drapes can be hung from the pergola, or along a wall, adding another element of softness and color. When tied back, they will accent the space beautifully. However, they can also be used as a source of shade, protection from a short rain shower or as a source of privacy in a crowded neighborhood.
An outdoor area rug adds softness, color and coziness to an outdoor living room. By adding an area rug to a deck or patio, the color and pattern elements inside the home can be continued right out the door. A rug will also serve to anchor the seating group, much as it would inside the home, and create a cozy space for conversation.
Numerous manufacturers, such as Capel Rugs and Shaw Rugs, offer all-weather area rugs in a wide array of patterns and colors. These rugs are made from synthetic fibers, making them easy to care for and fade-resistant. They are ideal for patios, decks, pool areas or entryways, and are able to withstand the elements.
Accessories are essential to finishing the room, even if it is in the outdoors. Adding potted flowers, herbs and green plants on tables and around the edges of the space, will create a beautiful scent and ambiance. Depending upon the plants selected, they may also attract birds and butterflies to this outdoor hideaway.
Plants should be selected based upon the light level in the space, but color should also be considered. Using the colors of the fabrics and rug in the room will help to determine the best hues to plant. Lovely ceramic or copper planters add a finishing touch.
When selecting other accessories, the use of the space is very important. Add all-weather coasters, such as slate tile, to the end tables. Large cushions or pillows provide an easy way to add extra seating in a space used for entertaining.
Adding Light and Warmth to a Deck or Patio
Another accessory to add warmth to an outdoor space is a fire bowl. From the upright “fireplace” option to a low, sleek copper bowl, there are many options available today. In larger areas, a built-in fire pit can be installed right into the patio.
In more sheltered areas, such as screened porches, gas or wood-burning fireplaces bring the indoors outside. These fireplaces are much like their indoor counterparts, complete with a mantle and hearth. Homeowners should check local ordinances for more details on any restrictions to using fire bowls.
Outdoor lighting will be necessary in any exterior patio space, as outdoor living does not always end at sunset. Accent lights in the form of candles or lanterns can be added to tables for a soft glow. Outdoor chandeliers can be hung over seating areas to add ambiance after dark.
Solar or low voltage landscape lights will add light to paths and planting beds. Solar lights require no wiring, and are very easy for the do-it-yourselfer to add to any patio area. Adding decorative lights or lanterns around the pergola, umbrella or walls will add a punch of color and needed light around the space. Lights such as these are easy to find at local home improvement and lighting shops.
Exterior living spaces can be as warm and inviting as their interior counterparts. Coordinating the colors of the accessories with the exterior colors on the home is the best way to ensure everything blends together beautifully.
Teri Larsen - Professional Interior Designer, Freelance Writer, Executive Editor of Metro Women Magazine, Mom of 2, Artist and Generally Creative ...
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