Utilizing all of your outdoor areas can offer many benefits in expanding usable space beyond your four walls. To create a unique and useful space, you need to make the area practical and allow enough room to move around with ease.

The infographic below by Eclipse Shading Systems will show you how to create a fabulous outdoor living space.

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Tips For Decorating an Outdoor Living Space

• Have plenty of comfortable seating options. Use cushions and pillows to add softness and color.
• Display ample amounts of lighting through candles, lamps, overhead and solar lighting.
• Add small elements throughout the outdoor living space that will add visual appeal. This can include curtains, plants and water fountains.
• Add a pop of color through an awning or exterior sunscreens.
• Include elements such as stone or brick as flooring or wall dividers between the outdoor living space and yard.
• Add rugs (made of durable fabric) to add a textured look.
• Bring your interior design style outdoors by adding similar design elements outside.
• Add colorful pots and candles for a whimsical look.
• Use metal letters on the wall for an eclectic feel.
• Display cool tones for a beachy or natural atmosphere.

How To Create an Outdoor Living Space Layout

• Check local building codes so your design will be in proper condition.
• Use whatever space your home has for an outdoor living space, including patios, rooftops, side yards, and courtyards.
• Make a list of all the features you want to include so you can ensure enough space is available.
• Just like interior rooms, outside living spaces should have a focal point that the layout and design is based around.
• Think about the flow when creating the layout design. You should include plenty of seating and storage, but the space should not feel cluttered.
• Instead of having straight pathways, have pathways that take a slight curve to add visual appeal and encourage exploration of the space.
• Create a privacy screen by adding plants, small trees, or lattices to an area.
• Consider adding a sun shade sail awning to help define an outdoor living space area.
• Leave enough seating under the overhead covering so everyone can comfortably enjoy the area.

Ways To Make an Outdoor Living Space Functional

• Keep it near your house for ease of convenience.
• Design the room so it can used year-round.
• Add shade so you will be able to enjoy the space despite the weather. Retractable awnings are great for this.
• Incorporate a source of heat, such as a fireplace, fire pit or heating lamp, so the living space can be used in cooler weather.
• Include cooling methods such as fans so you can enjoy the outdoor living space during warmer weather.
• Feature pieces that serve double functions. For example, have benches for seating open up for storage or use ottomans for serving and seating.
• Add a covering, such as an Alumawood patio cover, to a section so outdoor living space can be used despite weather.