5 . Design both spaces in your initial plan . Add your outdoor living space as part of your overall design plan . This will eliminate the need for renovations after you have finished your building . Swap solid walls for glass panels where these can be utilized to create the illusion of space .
6 . Add plants and more plants . Draw the eyes throughout your home with plants . Plants are a great way to improve air quality and also a wonderful way to bring the outdoors inside and vice versa . For a more tropical look , add areca palms and Birds of Paradise near windows that receive adequate sunlight .
7 . Invest in landscaping . Create a landscape that works with the flow of your home . For example , If your décor is modern , repeat the same concept in your outdoor space . Naturally , you will feel inclined to move freely between spaces without feeling obstructed by a difference in décor .
8 . Accessorise your outdoor space . If you like cooking , include a cooking area in your outdoor space with similar indoor accessories such as a grill , a kitchenette , a bar with stools for hanging out with friends and last but not least , an outdoor television . The possibilities are endless .
9 . Utilise comfortable furniture . Do not be afraid to splurge a little on your outdoor furniture . After all , why go all out to get everything else in place and you do not have comfortable seating to enjoy this new space . When you have decided how you will utilize your outdoor space and how you want it to connect with the outdoors , spend quality time researching outdoor furniture ( size , material , and durability ). Always keep in mind how you want to utilise the space when choosing furniture for your outdoor space .
10 . Lighting – YES lighting !!!. Too often I have noticed that the outdoor living space lacks proper lighting at nights . Proper lighting enhances the outdoor living space and invites the occupants to wander outside to lounge and relax in its nighttime offerings . Uplights on trees are also great ways to add depth and spotlights add interest , especially in the corner of the yard .
You do not need to be a decorator to be able to design an outdoor space that is just as enjoyable as an indoor living space . With a bit of creativity , it is possible to achieve this look and feel . As such , it is important to make the space extremely comfortable and inviting . Use appropriate plants , flower-pots , flooring and outdoor furniture to create your space . Add a television or a gaming table that could act as a focal point that draws people together .
Ensure you add adequate lighting so that you and your family can have loads of fun enjoying your new outdoor living space , an extension of your indoor living space .
Contributed by Donna Hunter , Outdoor Living Feature Editor
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