As you begin prepping your outdoor living space for ample use this summer, be sure not to neglect your indoor living space. After all, it has treated you kindly when you needed it the most during the long winter. Instead of thinking of the two as separate entities, consider using your outdoor space – whether it’s a patio, deck, yard or combination of the three – as an extension of your indoor living space. Blending indoor and outdoor living spaces will make your whole home feel bigger and can add significant value in the real estate market. “It’s all about finding ways to use indoor/outdoor spaces three out of the four seasons, rather than just during the summer months,” says Realtor Sara Deutsch of Keller Williams Valley Realty. From bigger investments to small decorating tips, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor/indoor living more cohesive.
3-Season Sunroom
Go big or go home, or in this case, go big and go home. A 3-season room is a popular option that brings in the feel of the outdoors, while still considered an indoor living space. This enclosed space is typically surrounded by windows that lets in the fresh air and natural sunlight. “What we’re seeing in these spaces is people are furnishing it with hybrid furniture,” says Deutsch. “The benefit is you’re not affected by the weather or pesky New Jersey bugs, but still can watch the kids play in the backyard and get that fresh air feel.” Have this space open into a larger living space, and keep the style complementary, such as with Down to Earth Living’s Indoor/Outdoor chairs or deep seating sectionals.
Covered Outdoor Area
Creating a patio or deck with coverage, rather than a full enclosure like a 3-seaon room, creates an outdoor space that acts as an extension of the living room. Bigger projects can include a covered patio, which offers full protection from weather, with fireplace, ceiling fan and heating lamps. For a more budget-friendly option, consider a canopy or shade sails, which provide coverage with less commitment. If adding a fireplace isn’t in your plan but you still want that cozy feeling, consider a dining table with built-in fireplace such as Down to Earth Living’s Treviso Dining with Fireplace by Gensun, which offers seating and warmth in one.
Another popular option for an indoor/outdoor space is with a pass through window or pass through bar. This allows closure for the winter months or buggy summers, while opening up your home to your outdoor space. This option is great for entertaining as it provides seamless flow between the indoor kitchen and outdoor seating area.
Décor and Design
When creating an indoor/outdoor space, choose décor that is a similar style and complementary to what you’ve designed inside. Work with matching throw pillows in similar prints, and add an outdoor rug working with the same color palette to make the space feel cozier. Add planters indoors near windows to bring consistency to greenery in both spaces. Outdoor bean bag chairs, decorative end tables or bar carts, and lighting will turn it into a true extended living space.
