Inspiring Outdoor Rooms

March 20, 2012

in Design & Decor

Yesterday was in the mid-70′s here, and we spent the entire day out of doors. It was wonderful! Of course, all of that time spent staring at the outside of my house from various angles had me making a mental list of things to change and special features to add. It’s so easy to dream up ambitious projects in spring, don’t you agree?

Photo: Tara Bussema

Photo: Molly Wood Garden Design

For one thing, I would love to install a small crushed gravel path in the backyard. If it led to a magical sitting area or cafe table, all the better. Eventually I’d love to have both an eating and a sitting/relaxing area in the backyard. Of course, the budget at the moment is not allowing any new furniture purchases, so I am officially beginning the craigslist hunt. It can take some time, but I’ve always had great luck on craigslist – you just have to be willing to persevere.

Photo: from Decorate by Holly Becker & Joanna Copestick

I love the idea of piling on the colors and patterns, especially in summer. It’s so fun, I think it would feel like a mini-vacation each time you went in the backyard. I’ve had my eye on these colorful outdoor rugs (made from recycled plastic!), and I’m almost ready to order one for our front porch. Which one would you pick?

Photo: Arcanum Architecture

A well-lit porch is just about the most inviting thing in the world, don’t you think so? I really want to replace our current porch lights, but I haven’t found any that are just right yet, so that will have to wait. I do love the combination of a single pendant and pair of sconces on the porch shown above – it casts a really lovely, warm glow.

Photo: Banyon Tree Design Studio

Adirondack chairs are on my must-get list, so I really have my fingers crossed that I’ll find a great pair locally through craigslist. I can’t wait to relax in the backyard with my coffee in the morning and watch the sunlight warm the garden.

Photo: Urrutia Design

And wouldn’t it be nice to just whip up an outdoor kitchen like this? Yeah, we’re not getting anything this fancy either. ;) But I do want to position a work table next to our grill so we can have a bit more room for prepping meals alfresco in the warmer months.

Photo: Molly Wood Garden Design

What about you? Any big dreams for your home or garden this spring? I’d love to hear! xo Laura

(all images: via Houzz, please see post for individual photo credits)

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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }

Daniella March 20, 2012 at 2:22 pm

Oh my gosh, for a second there I thought that first photo was your home, lol. I get all dreamy about the perfect outdoor space around this time too. Enjoy this lovely weather!

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Cindy P. March 20, 2012 at 6:42 pm

The weather has been beautiful! I am starting to think about sprucing up the deck – thanks for the inspiration.
Cindy P.´s last [type] ..Before & After, a love story about a dresser

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Anne March 20, 2012 at 11:27 pm

I really love the Holly Becker gypsy look. It is so romantic and charming! I would love to have that in my backyard.

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