With the Vancouver weather hitting the 30 degree mark this week, it’s time to give your outdoor space some love so that you can enjoy the sunshine as much as possible. Here are some simple design ideas you can implement to transform your outdoor space and create the backyard oasis you’ve always wanted!
Establish Your Zones
Image courtesy of Clean and Scentsible
Jenn from Clean and Scentsible has mastered the art of decorating her backyard as you can see in the above picture. She recommends starting by determining what roles you would like your space to fulfil. She raises the questions; Do you want a space to eat? A space to relax? A spot to entertain? Take into consideration the amount of space you have to work with, and decide how you will break it up into sections accordingly.
Mimic Your Interiors
Image courtesy of HouseBeautiful
HouseBeautiful brings up a great point of making sure the style and colour scheme of your patio furniture matches the inside design for a cohesive layout. For example, on this balcony designed by Lee Stanton, the traditional-meets-rustic furniture speaks to the laidback ranch-style Montecito, California, design featured inside the home.
Install a Swing Chair
Image courtesy of GoodHousekeeping
As mentioned in a blog by GoodHousekeeping, you can add a playful piece of furniture, such as a swing chair made of rattan or wicker to your space. Alternatively, if your balcony has an overhang, hang a swing so you can rest and take in the scenery from a higher vantage point. To make it more comfortable, add some throw pillows!
Use Space-Saving Furniture
Image courtesy of HouseBeautiful
If the space you are working with is on the smaller side, opt for space-saving furniture. This rugged wood bench that HouseBeautiful showcases works perfectly for a smaller balcony and the throw gives it a cozy and inviting feel.
Add a Cover/Umbrella
Image courtesy of HouseBeautiful
Cover your balcony to provide shade and weather protection. As HouseBeautiful says, “You don’t have to build a permanent overhead structure though. Instead, secure outdoor fabric or a tarp to corner pillars for a bohemian look.” Otherwise, simply adding an outdoor umbrella will do the trick. I purchased a very durable and neutral patio umbrella a few years ago from Canadian Tire and it has been a game changer!
Add More Greenery
Image sourced from GoodHousekeeping
Breathe life into your outdoor space with greenery & flowers. If your space is fenced, I love the look of displayed planters as shown in the above picture. You could also incorporate fresh herb planters which is what I’ll be doing with my patio over the next week!
Hang Paper Lanterns or String Lights
Image sourced from GoodHousekeeping
To make your outdoor oasis really special, hang string lights or paper lanterns for a whimsical feel. I would strongly encourage making sure that the light fixtures you choose are sturdy as we have decently windy nights in Vancouver from time to time. My last set weren’t secured properly and unfortunately had to be replaced, but the look now is very inviting and cozy.
Create a Sense of Privacy
Image courtesy of Clean and Scentsible
I love the idea of creating more privacy with a fence just like Jenn’s from Clean and Scentsible. It helps to separate the space from your neighbours’ yard, while the creeping virginia vine adds extra privacy and a vibrant pop of green!
Make Your Own Outdoor Bar
Image courtesy of GoodHousekeeping
If you love to entertain, why not add an outdoor bar cart with all of your entertaining needs! A rolling cart is great for bringing inside if need be.
I hope these tips are helpful and you enjoy the warm Vancouver days we have headed our way – don’t forget sunscreen!