The demand for outdoor living spaces has increased again for the sixth year in a row. Not only can an outdoor living space add value to your home, but it’s also what buyers want to see when they’re house hunting. 

If you haven’t designed your own outdoor living space yet, it should be your next home project. 

And it doesn’t have to be expensive. Small changes can make a big difference. 

Not sure where to start?

Take a look at these seven ideas that’ll help you design breathtaking outdoor living spaces. 

1. Add a Variety of Seating Options

When you’re setting up your outdoor living space, you should create a few separate seating areas. This will give you multiple spots to entertain guests. 

But don’t stick to the same type of seating for each spot. 

Use at least two different types of benches, chairs, stools, etc. This will make your yard look bigger, add more visual interest, and keep your guests more comfortable. 

Get creative with the seating. 

Do you have a roof over your patio? Consider installing a hanging chair. Don’t have enough space on your deck for more than a few chairs? Throw some blankets, cushions, and stools on the ground. 

As you’re picking your seating options, make sure you think about storage space as well. Many outdoor areas don’t have a lot of space, so you may want to choose benches that open up for additional storage. 

2. Blend Indoor Features with the Outdoors

Want to create a high-end outdoor living space? The best way to do that is to pick traditional indoor features and move them outside. 

For example, you could consider building an entire kitchen on your back deck, including functional cooktops, ovens, and refrigerators. This will take your BBQing to a whole new level and allow you to mingle with the rest of the party instead of disappearing inside. 

But if you have an outdoor kitchen, you should also set up an outdoor dining table. Instead, of using a picnic table, you should give this dining area as much attention as you would inside. 

Pick an elegant table with comfortable seating. You can also buy some stools and put them around an outdoor bar. 

And don’t forget an outdoor TV. This will transform your outdoor space from a plane deck to a true entertainment area.

3. Include a Fire Source 

Including a fire source in your outdoor living space will draw people together. It’ll also give you a place to enjoy telling stories or roasting marshmallows. 

There are a few different types of fire sources you can choose from when designing your yard. 

If you don’t have a large budget or are pressed for space, you might want to stick with something small, such as a fire pit. You can design your fire pit to fit into any theme or feel you want, and it’s easier to maintain than larger fire sources. 

But if you want to go big, you can build a full-sized fire pit outside. 

An outdoor fireplace not only provides more warmth, but it also allows you to add more seating around it. When it’s turned off, it can act as a backdrop for your outdoor TV. 

Whatever you choose, a fire feature is a classic feature in many outdoor living spaces. 

4. Create a Focal Point 

A central focus piece gives you something to build the rest of your outdoor living space around. It also creates a spot for your guest’s eyes to rest and adds character and beauty to your yard.

This focal point could be a number of things. 

For example, if you’re planning to build an outdoor kitchen, that might central part of your space. It could also be something you already have in your yard, like a winding tree or a pond. 

But if you’re not sure what your focal point is, spend some time considering different options. You could always install a water feature, such as a fountain, or buy an artistic sculpture. 

5. Add Dimension With Light 

Lighting can add dimension to your outdoor space, and depending on the type you choose, you can create different feels. 

Outdoor electrical lights that you can turn on and off with a switch can make your space feel bright and modern. Hanging string lights over your space can make it feel homey and warm. Tiki lights or torches can add a sense of drama. 

If you want something elegant, you can even consider installing a chandelier from the patio roof. Just make sure you get one that can survive the harsh elements. 

6. Play with Color 

Your outdoor living space gives you the opportunity to play with different colors you might not use inside. 

Popular indoor colors, such as neutral greens and browns, will just blend into the rest of the yard outside. Even black, which normally looks elegant and chic, will absorb heat and make you and your guests uncomfortable.

White can be a good choice, but it also requires a lot of attention. Even a thin layer of dirt is noticeable on a white lawn chair. 

Instead, pick bright, bold colors for your outdoor living space. They’ll stand out from your grass, trees, and flowers and add personality. 

7. Set up a Privacy Barrier 

Don’t like the idea of nosy neighbors peeking in on your festivities? Just because you’re outside doesn’t mean you can’t set up some privacy barriers. 

And you can make these privacy barriers look completely natural. 

Plant some tall hedges around your yard, or add a wall or shrubs in a high-visibility spot. You can also plant trees to block unwanted eyes and turn your yard into a mini forest. 

If you don’t want to crowd your yard with more plants, you can also hang drapes around your patio. Even when they’re open, these can make your outdoor living space feel modern, elegant, and airy. 

Creative Ideas for a Breathtaking Outdoor Living Spaces

Before you can start designing your outdoor living spaces, you have to make sure the foundation is in good condition. An old, faded, or damaged deck will detract from any features you add, no matter how nice they are. 

Does your deck need some work?

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