A comfortable and welcoming outdoor space is perfect for having friends over, increasing entertainment space, and most importantly, creating a space for you and your family to unwind. From finding the perfect grill to using the right hardscaping materials, there’s a lot of time, thought, and effort that goes into creating your own backyard oasis. What color palette should I use? What’s the best outdoor furniture? Should I get outdoor appliances? These are all questions that may seem like a lot at first, but they’re pretty easy to answer once you know exactly what you want out of your outdoor kitchen and lounge area. Here are some ways you can make this outdoor space comfortable and relaxing!
Make it functional
When designing your outdoor space, it’s important to think about what you’ll be using it for. Will you primarily use it for entertaining and parties? Or do you want it to be your own private escape? Whether you need space for a few dozen or just want something intimate, you have to think about the functionality of the space you’re creating.
If you’re designing an outdoor kitchen, think about the appliances you need and where to place them to maximize space and utility. Like any kitchen, you want to maximize functionality and decrease unnecessary trips in and out of your home. Set up everything you might need to create effortless outdoor dining experiences. Select your grill setup to accommodate this functionality while making it a fun experience to gather around for your friends or family.
Create a color palette and aesthetic
It’s easy to get lost in the excitement of creating an outdoor space. A new grill, outdoor fireplace or fire pit, hardscaping materials, and all those other big-ticket items can distract from the details of setting up an outdoor kitchen or lounge area that is as stylish as it is functional. Choosing a consistent color palette and aesthetic is key in creating a relaxing and inspiring space for you and your guests.
When choosing an aesthetic, opt for ones that go with your personal style. If your home is mid-century modern, pull those design elements into your outdoor lounge area. Your color palette can be bold and bright or simple and subdued. Most people opt for earth tones in an outdoor kitchen with a pop of color, but the options are limitless.
Create a view
Not everyone has a beautiful backdrop for a backyard, but there are loads of things you can do to create a stunning view in your outdoor space. If you don’t have mountains in your backyard or a scenic ocean view, get creative and make one yourself. Have a pool? Make that your view! Or, work with a local landscaping company to help maximize your landscape’s potential, maybe with fruit trees, a succulent garden, or other low maintenance garden for visual appeal.
Consider additional features to make a focal point in the outdoor space. Add a bubbling fountain, koi pond, or beautiful light fixture to beautify your space and create dazzling ambience.
Find the right furniture
Not all outdoor spaces are the same, and everyone needs different furniture. If you’re looking for a relaxing space, select comfortable outdoor sectionals, plush lounge chairs, or outdoor poufs for additional seating. If you need something with a little more functionality, get sturdy outdoor furniture that can handle wind and rain. These are made with heavier materials and provide great functionality.
There are loads of outdoor kitchen ideas and inspiration you can use to find the right furniture for your space. Whether you need sleek and modern or classic and comfy, you can make your outdoor kitchen or lounge area the exact space you need to relax and unwind.
Keep it clean
We know, cleaning may seem like the opposite of relaxing, but when you keep a space clean, it makes being in it so much more enjoyable. Be sure to power wash the patio to get rid of stains and debris. Be sure to shine and polish your outdoor appliances, that way they won’t get rusty and you can combat the elements. Plus, if you keep your outdoor space clean, you won’t have to do as much maintenance and you’ll avoid some costly repairs in the future.
Put your own personal touch on things
From choosing the right color furniture to finding the right light fixtures, you have every opportunity to put your personal touch on things. If you want your outdoor kitchen or lounge space to be relaxing, it has to reflect you. After all, you’re the one who will be spending the most time here. From choosing the perfect backsplash to decorating with just the right accents, you’ll have a smile on your face every time you walk into this space.
From choosing the right hardscapes to creating a beautiful view, you have every opportunity to make your space comfortable and relaxing. Whether you’re throwing a big outdoor party or just want a place to land after a long day or long week, an outdoor oasis is a great addition to your home.