Audrey
Most people don’t realize the potential of their backyards, decks, and patios, and will never really take full advantage of their outdoor spaces. If you want to be different and really turn your space into an oasis, it’s simpler than you might think to make that possible.
However, if you do decide to take the plunge and revamp your outside living space, there are a few common pitfalls you may fall victim to.
Keep reading to learn where most people mess up when it comes to designing their back porches, and how you can avoid these common mistakes.
Skimping on Furniture
It’s easy to think that the sofa that’s going to live outside really shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg. Anything you buy that’s going to have to face the elements anyway should be cheap and easily replaceable, right?
Definitely wrong. When it comes to buying furniture for your outdoor space, opting for higher quality outdoor tables, chairs, and sofas, that will last you for years and years is a much better decision. When you decide to splash the cash and really invest in good stuff, you’ll be buying furniture that has been designed to withstand heat, rain, snow, and other weather issues, which means it will look good for much longer.
Not Prioritizing Comfort
Another common thought pattern is that furniture that won’t be used as often doesn’t really require a serious investment. Plastic chairs will do just fine, right? Save the big money for your indoor furniture!
Once again, this is a serious mistake. If your outdoor furniture is uncomfortable, you’ll never feel inclined to spend any time out there anyway, and all your money and effort will go to waste. You want to make the space inviting and an enjoyable place to be, so that you, your family, and guests can truly enjoy every moment of being outdoors.
Neglecting Décor
The rooms and spaces in your home should offer more than just functionality and practicality. Sure, a basic table with some chairs to sit on will do the job and allow you to enjoy a meal outside with your family. However, there’s a lot to be said for making the effort to improve your outdoor area.
Décor is just one of the very simple ways you can do this. In the same way you would use artwork, vases, photographs, and trinkets to jazz up your living room, give the same attention to your outdoor space. Use attractive plant pots and planters, redo your landscaping, add some colorful throw cushions to your sofa, and add some candles to your outdoor dining table.
Overlooking Lighting
If you’re going to be spending dinnertimes outdoors, then you’re going to want to take care of your lighting. If you want to host guests for evening barbecues or pool parties, this becomes even more important!
Ambience is everything, and you can add so much life to your outdoor space by playing with interesting lighting – twinkle lights, lanterns, candles, you name it!
Failing to Consider Privacy
If your backyard space lacks privacy, this most likely isn’t your fault. These types of issues are usually down to the way your home was planned out, designed, and built by designers and architects, and the chances are you had nothing to do with this.
But this doesn’t mean that your hands are tied. Luckily for you, there are loads of ways you can make your space more private. If you’re a homeowner, you might be able to build up walls or fences or make other big changes. However, even if you’re renting, there are options that will help bring a bit more privacy to your space that will make it a more comfortable place to be.
Forgetting About Fun
Finally, don’t forget to make your outdoor space a place you actually want to be! Sure, the idea of eating a meal in the summer breeze can be inviting enough on its own, but there’s no harm in adding a little extra incentive to get outside on a more regular basis.
You can hang a hammock for reading in the shade, throw some inflatable toys in your pool, and consider investing in outdoor speakers, or a TV for those backyard parties you’ve always dreamed of hosting. If you have kids, a small sandpit or jungle gym can be a great addition to your outdoor space that will get them out in the sun instead of in front of the TV.
