Picture yourself stepping outside your home and looking onto a beautiful new patio living space. Imagine food cooking away on the grill, a well-designed seating area that provides comfort and function for your family and guests, and inviting colors that enhance the beauty of your back yard.

Here are some great ideas to help you get the most out of your outdoor space and turn your backyard into an extension of your home.

Think about decks, patios and porches which need to be a reflection of your home’s personality.

Outdoor furniture can make all the difference in the patio space. Do you want your outdoor space to function with its own kitchen, living and dining space?

Is relaxing next to the fire pit with comfortable cozy chairs desirable to you?

Do you also want a small quiet place to sit outdoors?

What about making sure you have the correct type of seating for the space?

At Dorene Gomez Interiors we pride ourselves in having a variety of outdoor furniture companies to choose from that can meet all design categories and price points. When shopping for outdoor furniture, because of the abuse and wear and tear it takes, do think about purchasing higher quality furniture. Weather can be quite abusive and can make less expensive patio furniture look weathered and more worn quickly.

Durable Sunbrella fabrics are a good choice because of their five-year warranty with the ease of simple cleaning, and there are hundreds of patterns and colors to choose from, so there is something for every taste and style.

Also, I would suggest to always purchase correctly fitted furniture covers when the furniture isn’t in use.

Poorly arranged furniture can hinder conversation, so the right furniture plan is essential. Think of it as being no different than the interior of your home. Is it an over-sized area that you have to furnish? Why not use modular pieces that can give you plenty of seating and offer you many furniture plans.

Have some fun and add interesting furniture, whimsical accessories and lighting that gives the space character

Wicker with plush cushions are always a great choice and are readily available in so many different finishes. Why not add a metal antique -inspired daybed with matching chairs for a romantic courtyard feel.

Accessorize using pots, vases, and candelabras that can add height to tables. Area rugs are also becoming a common accessory to the patio.

Optimize your outdoor living space by using overhangs, gazebos pergolas or fabric canopies that can give you shade from the hot sun and create privacy. Canopies these days can be retractable and cantilevered if needed. Flowing draperies on rods can add a touch of privacy.

Don’t forget about using some color in the yard. Let the outdoor furniture and décor complement the colors in your garden. Even if the main fabric on the furniture pieces is neutral, try to use a colorful array of pillows. Some of the hot outdoor colors right now are turquoise, coral, fuchsia and yellow.

If you are keeping a neutral palette, and like a more contemporary space, think of using matching hues that blend with the main upholstery fabric. Patterns like stripes and geometric, along with texture,  give the furniture pieces interest.

Dorene Gomez Interiors can create that perfect custom outdoor furniture plan for you.

HAPPINESS IS: BBQ’S, FRIENDS, AND BACKYARDS!

Dorene Gomez

CCIDC Certified Interior Designer, Owner

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