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Surviving those cold winter months in NNY makes getting outdoors even more essential when those sunny days + summer nights roll around. It's a sacred time that we know comes with an expiration date so follow these tips to make the most of your time spent outdoors.
1. Make your outdoor space as livable and luxurious as the indoor space. After being cooped up for so long most people are eager to get outside, but it doesn't mean you can't do it in style. Ample, oversized seating welcomes people to explore the outdoors and designated areas encourage people to take their activities outside. First center your space with large rug, whether it be on the deck, patio, or right in the grass. Then add your seating options of choice be it Adirondack chairs, wicker furniture sets, pop-up chairs, or just a few oversized cushions. The concept you create should be in line with your style inside the house, so transitioning to the outdoor space is seamless.
2. Textiles are an easy refresh that pack a powerful punch. Cushions, blankets, and layered rugs soften the space to really accentuate the cozy factor. Bright colors and mix-match pattern create a fun feel that is translates easily into summertime vibes. Although options made specifically for the outdoors may fare a bit better, feel free to bring inside options out. You can always take them back in at the end of the night, or tuck them safely in trunk until the next use.
3. Add some votives + lanterns. We all know fairy lights & nice fire pit are a mood all their own, but not every outdoor space can accommodate those features. Votives and lanterns are equally as magically choices for your space. The conveniently come in flameless options which allows them to be placed pretty much anywhere you want. Varying size & color can put the "fun" in function.
4. Practical Pieces. It would be fantastic if we could all go out and get brand new patio furniture whenever we wanted it, but let's be real, it's not cheap. Finding practical pieces that can serve multiple functions can be a real penny saver. For example, a stool can be used as a seat, a foot rest, or a side table depending on how you need it. Investing in a nice daybed or outdoor sectional can provide multiple seating or a relaxing spot to stretch out after a long day. And a picnic table or table & chair set can transition from your home office, to your dinner table, to game night ready in the blink of an eye.
5. Have fun with it. Don't get caught up in the idea that everything needs to match, or that everything needs to serve the sole purpose it was designed for. Design your space around your own style, if you like simple, make it simple. If you like flashy, make it flashy. If you want to walk outside and feel like you just stepped into another world that makes you breathe out a sigh of relief & relaxation, then think of your most favorite place that makes you feel that way and design it around that. As long as it makes you want to be out there, you're doing it right!
6. Plants, duh. Flowers are always a beautiful touch, but I recommend doing some research and investing in plants that can provide you with a service as well as some beauty. Herbs can be the ultimate option as they are edible, they usually grow pretty large, and most of them are some sort of bug repellent. The Farmer's Almanac offers a handy list to pot on your patio: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/what-to-plant-to-keep-bugs-away-24734
Until next time friends. Oh, and if you need me, I'll be outside all summer!
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