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Creating an Outdoor Oasis

Investing in your outdoor living space creates an extension of your home beyond the patio doors. Try adding relaxing furniture, covered spaces for protection from the sun and even fire pits, water features or vibrant decor. Creating this special outdoor space is easier than you may think. Elliott's is here to help with some tips on creating your own Outdoor Oasis!

All-Season Enjoyment

If you're planning on enjoying your meals outdoors, add an outdoor dining table with flexible seating to accommodate the size of your patio and the number of guests you expect.

If you plan to use the space on a more casual level, you can decorate with deep-seated furniture and possibly add a fire pit for some marshmallow roasting in cooler weather.

Outdoor Colorscape

The colors you choose for your outdoor living area should not only complement the immediate area but also correspond with the style and color of your home.

For example, you may want to coordinate your toss pillows with the shade of the exterior of your home or the color of your shutters. You can add some personality by selecting cushions in rich and vibrant colors to make a bold statement and create excitement, or you can incorporate soft and cool shades to produce a relaxing, laid-back vibe. Also, incorporating a lively outdoor rug will help break up dining and relaxing areas.

Perfect Plantings

No outdoor living space would be complete without the added beauty of Mother Nature’s touch.

When choosing flowers and plants, you should select blooms that coordinate and complement the rest of the elements in and around your space. If you really want to make your flowers pop, set them next to items from the opposite end of the color wheel. The two colors will highlight one another, and make a bold statement.

Lighten the Mood

To enjoy your backyard getaway after the sun sets, you'll want to include some outdoor lighting.

For outdoor kitchens, you'll need good task lighting over the grill and work areas. For the dining and conversation areas, candlelight, wall-mount downlights, or dimmable electric lamps create a relaxed mood. Steps and walkways should be illuminated for safety. You can also use solar-powered accent lights or low-voltage lights to add drama and interest to the landscape and to highlight paths. Combine a mix of lighting sources to make your backyard getaway a magical place after dark.