Summertime is my absolute favorite season. Last weekend I visited my friend Katrina’s newly purchased New Jersey home. I was also able to see my friend Erika’s beautiful sun room in her suburban New York home. Both of these spaces inspired me to blog about outdoor rooms. As my friends Kim, Tracy, Tara, Erika and her daughter Immanuelle sat on Katrina’s porch swing, the calm, tranquil outdoor space lulled us into a very relaxed state of mind. The freshly-made Mojitos didn’t hurt either!
The sun, warm weather, long daylight hours, poolside barbeques, parties with friends and fresh summer fruits make for great outdoor memories. Why stay confined to an air conditioned house when you can feel the breeze on your skin while lounging in a comfy outdoor room? Extend your indoor spaces outdoors with colorful, cozy furniture, water features, fireplaces and if your budget allows, even an outdoor kitchen.
Imagine having breakfast every morning in this colorful outdoor space. The fireplace can even be used in the evening for great ambiance.
Fire and water are always a great conversation piece and create visual interest. If you don’t have room or the budget to install a pool (who does these days?), a small water wall or fountain can create the same effect. A fire pit can be built on the cheap with some leftover bricks and a concrete slab.
This kitchen layout from a great outdoor kitchen company in the Bay area of California features a full-service kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances. Perfect for a summertime barbeque or birthday party without having to shuttle things in and out of the kitchen.
Target has stepped up in a major way with lots of outdoor furniture options. Chic and stylish, these pieces usually go on sale mid-summer. So if you want the best deal on patio furniture for late summer/fall, be sure to purchase collections like this around late June.
For a cozy, casual living room feel, opt for a sectional like this one from Target. Kick your shoes off, grab a tall, chilled beverage and RELAX!
Z Gallerie features some fabulous summertime tents to create a chic cabana style anywhere in your yard or small deck area.
Enjoy the summer, everyone!
