Maximizing Comfort and Style in Outdoor Living Areas

"Enjoy the outdoors of your home in comfort."

Functional exterior space is no longer a nice perk--it has become an essential component of a complete property. With more and more people working from home and/or living remote lifestyles, the need for a change of scenery without leaving the premises is paramount. In order for an outdoor area to get utilized, however, it must look and play the part. 

You should feel just as comfortable in their outdoor environment as they do inside. With this in mind, keep reading as we explore some of the best tips for maximizing comfort and style in outdoor living areas. 

Install Durable and Attractive Pavers

"Attractive paving will add to your enjoyment of your patio."

Getting the outdoor flooring right is a challenge for many properties. Grass simply will not stand up to heavy foot traffic. Wood, brick, and concrete are better in this regard. However, these products have porosity issues that lead to cracking without regular maintenance. 

Instead of deciding between porcelain vs concrete pavers, it is worthwhile to consider the merits of engineered composites. Not only are they lightweight and easy to work with, but they can be fabricated in a number of attractive designs that closely resemble rustic exterior flooring. They accomplish this while also providing moisture and UV resistance for ongoing functionality and aesthetics.

Ensure Adequate Shade Over Your Outdoor Living Area

"A nice shady spot is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family."

Even the most extravagant exterior hangout will sit underutilized without the proper shading. Nobody wants to feel like they have to apply sunscreen every time they head outside to relax. Pergolas are a go-to option. Most come in easy-to-assemble kits that can be erected in as little as a few hours. There are pergola options for stand-alone areas, such as outdoor kitchens, or connected pergolas for decks. Not only do pergolas provide shade and weather protections, but they add an element of architectural intrigue to a property. Of course always make sure that your pergola structures are safe and meet your local codes.​

Secure the Perimeter Of Elevated Decks

Any elevated area must be secured with a quality exterior handrail system to prevent falls. Even for ground-level structures, stylish railing can do wonders for defining space. Black aluminum railing is popular for its low maintenance and stunning contrast.

Add Water Features to Your Patio

There is something about water that is inherently peaceful. It really ties together the whole outdoor relaxation vibe. Many people immediately think of swimming pools. While a pool can be a great outdoor feature in the right context, there are more subtle options that are much lower maintenance. 
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Consider adding small fountains at the end of a deck or patio. Explore the soothing benefits of rain chains for gutters. Look into small stock tanks as a focal point for flower beds and to attract songbirds. ​Improving your garden adds value and enjoyment to your home

Keeping Outdoor Living Cool

Even in the most serene climates, it seems like there are far fewer “perfect” days than homeowners would prefer. The temperature has a way of being just a few degrees cooler or hotter than most people like for comfort. 

The good news is that there are many options for those sunny days that are just a bit too warm. Having the proper shading infrastructure is a great place to start. In addition, misting systems can help keep exterior areas pleasantly cool. Also look at various types of ceiling fans. There are directional fans and front-porch overhead fans that can keep cool air circulating on warm days.

Spruce Up the Windows

Even though windows are technically a transitional element between the inside/outside, they are going to be one of the first things people notice when assessing the exterior. Cracked and clouded windows will kill the ambiance of even the most stunning outdoor environments. 

Many homeowners are choosing to go with large windows. This helps enliven the overall aspect of the property while providing an elegant glass backdrop to the home’s exterior. Properly-executed trims and shutters can provide some architectural contrast that gives the exterior a finished appearance. 

Don't forget the Outside of Your Home

Faded paint, cracked walls, damaged cladding, all detract from the the value of your home and the view from your outdoor living area.
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​Repair damaged and unsightly exteriors.  A new paint job will brighten your outdoors. Even consider a professional mural strategically placed on a bare wall, or maybe place some outdoor artwork at a focus point in your garden. Something you will enjoy looking at while providing a talking point while entertaining family and friends in your newly refreshed outdoor living area. Brighten up your outdoors and add value to your home. Tips for Selecting Exterior Paint Colours for Your Home

Take Outdoor Living Areas to the Next Level with Functional Upgrades

From durable exterior flooring to stunning home cladding, creating a comfortable and stylish exterior is essential in ensuring that it is a positive component of the property.
For more ideas read: ​​Revamp Your Outdoor Space with Creative Ideas for Backyard Remodeling

Author

Sam Willis is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise in residential and commercial real estate, as well as engineering, construction, and business. Sam’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.

All pictures used in this article are courtesy of www.freepik.com  

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