Creating outdoor rooms

The May long weekend is here, and many of us are busy getting our outdoor spaces ready for summer living.

This same time two years ago, I wrote a blog post about creating rooms outdoors. It talked about creating destinations in our outdoor space, and how area rugs, screens, plants or a canopy will help define those special outdoor rooms. I'm back to that theme, but this time I want to focus on the importance of the area rug. It is really the key piece that will transform an ordinary deck or patio into an attractive hang-out area. 

I recently helped a client create a cute outdoor retreat, a place she can go to when she wants a break from the busy beach area on the opposite side of the house. This is a client who loves happy colours, so we needed something completely different from the muted browns, greys, and mossy greens that are predominant in our stores (I'd love to see some variety!). We found the right rug - a classic green-and-white stripe - at Pier 1, and instantly, I repeat: instantly, we had created an "outdoor room". Easy! A quick word about materials: make sure the rug is intended for outdoor use.

Here are other examples of outdoor spaces defined by area rugs:


Photo: Houzz.




Modern Patio by Edmonton Architect thirdstone inc.

Photo: Houzz.

Modern Patio by New York Architect
Incorporated. Photo: Houzz.

 

Contemporary Entry. Photo: Houzz.