How to Make Your Outdoor Space Feel Like Home

By Lauren Riddiough Clement, Owner/Decorator of Lauren Nicole Designs and Lila HOME

Indoor/outdoor living is a lifestyle trend that is here to stay. So how do you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that has a finished feel and is an extension of your home? Here are a few simple tips!

1. SPACE PLANNING!
Consider traffic patterns and conversation areas when arranging your furniture.

Just like the inside of your home, your outside space needs to work for your lifestyle. Do you love to entertain? Do you host large parties or mostly small and intimate get togethers? Will you have lots of kids or mostly adults in your outdoor space? Creating a space that fits your needs is key. Design a comfy and cozy seating area that you and your family can use on a daily basis along with an extension of seating in ottomans or garden stools for when you have friends over. And make sure that your dining area will accommodate your needs. Think round when considering an outdoor dining table as the round shape promotes conversation and welcomes longer seating times.

2. COLOR!
When selecting colors for your outdoor space think natural. I do not mean boring by any means! For example, blues and greens are great accent colors for your outdoor space as they naturally occur outside. Conversely, bolder colors such as orange or rust can provide a warm pop of color and are part of the brown family, a nature inspired color. And just like inside, be sure to carefully infuse the right balance of solids and patterns and textures. For example, still use a neutral on your sofa and highlight it with fun pillows in bolder colors and or patterns. Bring in patterns in your accent chairs. Consider outdoor drapery panels in a subtle sheer fabric if your space allows. Again like inside this additional fabric is the icing on the cake!

3. ACCESSORIES!
The options for outdoor accessories have really been expanded over the last several seasons and this is great news! Think a tray on your cocktail table, pillows on your sofa, art over your outdoor console table, a clock or metal wall décor on your brick exterior wall, large lanterns or hurricanes with LED candles and even an area rug to define your space and highlight your furniture. Just like the inside of your home, your outdoor space also needs the jewelry to make it complete.

While you want your outdoor space to be an extension of your interior, have FUN with this design and create a happy place that makes you smile and want to spend time outside soaking up the sun and breathing the fresh air.

Here is a short video that breaks down on of my latest outdoor spaces. Enjoy and happy outdoor decorating!

Smarty Alert: Mark your calendar for Lila HOME’s Start to Summer Soiree!

When? June 19, 2014 from 4-8 PM

While browsing our super cute fashion and accessory trends for the summer, don’t miss our new line of tablescaping paper products including table runners, placemats and napkins – everything to make summer entertaining easy, beautiful and fun!

Featuring certified organic nibbles from Wildtree, a line of all-natural, gourmet culinary blends, infused Grapeseed oils, dressings and sauces making mealtime spectacular!

Great giveaways too!

RSVP to 877-583-0355 to reserve your spot!

You can find Lila HOME at:

Lila HOME
Toringdon Circle Shopping Center
12206 Copper Way
Suite 128
Charlotte, NC 28277
www.lilahomedesigns.com
linda.lilahome@gmail.com
(877) 583-0355
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