You have a balcony, a terrace, a roof terrace, how small this outdoor space is, you can use it at least several months a year, do not neglect it, make it an additional living room.
1. Optimize space
You have a 3-dimensional space, use the height to hang shelves to store what you only need from time to time. You can hang pretty plants from the ceiling.
Freeing up floor space by limiting the amount of furniture will give the impression of space.
2. Lighting
For light: we think of solar which works even without direct light. In garland, on foot, to plant plants in the ground or to hang on the wall, there are solar lights of all sizes and for all budgets.
Also think about exterior mirrors which reflect light and give an effect of depth.
3. Define the main use
Before any purchase, it is important to define the main use of this outdoor space in order to avoid moving the furniture too often.
For example, if you dream of a hammock but your outdoor space is also a dining area, you will have to regularly disassemble the hammock, this will become restrictive in the long run, with the risk of wear and tear from repeated disassembly.
4. Identify your style
Sometimes we tend to buy decorative items over the years and we end up with colours and styles that don’t always work together, find your style to match the ensemble while avoiding the total look.
5. Protect
Ideally, it is recommended to keep outdoor furniture and accessories in a safe place. Not everyone has a garden shed or storage space in the garage.
However, you can protect your furniture from the elements with breathable and waterproof covers.
Exposed to the rays of the moon and the sun, your furniture will deteriorate all winter, moss and rust can set in.
6. Eco friendly materials
We are turning to eco friendly materials:
- FSC / PEFC wood,
- recycled materials,
- metal,
- natural stone,
- slate.
More and more affordable and resistant, don’t hesitate to opt for these materials that are good for the planet, designers are making pretty collections these days.
7. Outdoor rugs
Rugs complete the look of an exterior, colorful or black and white, round or rectangular, there are all kinds. However, prefer natural materials such as coconut, bamboo or jute rather than polypropylene.
Polypropylene does not resist rain well and its particles fly up in the air.
8. Indoor/Outdoor brands
In the old days, garden furniture was only found in the garden shops and there were few pretty affordable choices.
These last years, many furniture brands have been developing their own “Outdoor” collections. There is something for all budgets and all sizes.
Enjoy your outdoor space!
Do you want to discuss your outdoor project? Contact me!