Monday, June 9, 2014

An Outdoor Area That Fits Your Tastes

By Clive Morris


Culture is in a constant state of flux. What is considered hip and normal one year is out of style the next. Big, curly hairstyles may have been a regular sight in the 80s, but they would draw more attention if you walked around with one today. This is true of home decorations as well. What was normal back in the day might be outdated or tacky today. This isn't always a bad thing, and a retro look can certainly be appealing. But the problem with many decoration schemes is the lack of focus. If you have owned your home for quite some time, you have likely collected pieces and objects from the various decades you have lived in. With all of these different styles and eras clashing, it can create a chaotic look. You might consider updating to a more consistent theme. This article will highlight certain themes you might consider for an outdoor space, like a patio.

The backyards and patios of previous generations often had a different goal and design in mind when they were made. People used their outdoor areas a little differently a few decades ago. Aside from the occasional barbecue party, that big patch of grass often was not used very much for anything but looking good. But in recent times, there has been a growing trend of people using their outdoor areas as actual living spaces, with just as much design work put into them as any room inside the house. Many people like having extra amenities that can be enjoyed in the great outdoors. Common choices include outdoor projection screens for movie nights and fire pits to enjoy time with friends and family during the night.

Just as the interior of the home looks better when the design and styles work together well, an outdoor space benefits greatly from a consistent theme. The first step of choosing a them would be to observe the outside of your home and take note of the style and colors. You wouldn't want to pick outdoor furniture with colors that clash with the home itself. Additionally, if your home has a certain look to it, such as Spanish-style architecture, for example, you would want to pick items that don't distract from the look or appear out of place.

Wicker or other wood furniture is a very common choice for outdoors, and for good reason. It has a naturally muted, unassuming appearance that blends quite nicely with a number of different design styles. You can choose cushions to bring in some color highlights and match it to the rest of the design.

For families who own pools, you might decide to theme your outdoor area around that. You might pick some subtle island or nautical designs, such as a tiki bar and torches. Just keep in mind that taking a theme too far can make your area look cheesy.

A lot of people opt for a modern appearance that emphasizes clean appearances and contrast. One way to accomplish this is through furniture with bright, solid colors and artistic shapes. Other people like the look of shiny metal, like stainless steel or chrome, with glass surfaces and highlights.

Many of the most beautiful yards make great use of stone and water features, like a small pond with a waterfall. Stone walkways and seating areas can be spectacular additions to your backyard landscaping.

There is no shortage of available options when you are designing or redesigning you backyard or other outdoor space. Careful planning and consistent styling can make a good yard look great.




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