Accessorizing for outdoor living

As spring gets well under way, homeowners’ thoughts turn towards summer and outdoor living. Depending on where you live, there are a variety of activities you can organize in your own backyard, if you just have the right furniture and accessories. But first, you’ll want to take into account your own unique environment.

Do some space planning

Assess your landscape (Are there large amounts of lawn, is it slanted, how big is the patio?), the sun orientation (Do you have shade, what time of day will you be most active outside?), and possible views (What obstructions might there be?). Once you have done so, you can do a little planning and decide where you want your focal point to be and what kind of entertaining you intend on doing.

Try mixing and matching your furniture

One suggestion from design experts is that instead of having perfectly matching furniture, try collecting a more eclectic mix of lawn chairs, tables, and benches. Just be sure every piece of your outdoor furniture is made of "exterior-appropriate materials, such as woven resin, teak, stone, and metal to provide a more multi-layered result."

Throw in a rug or two

You might also consider throwing an outdoor rug into the mix, as rugs "provide a softness and visual relief from hardscape flooring materials such as concrete, brick, and flagstone." Accessorize your outdoor space with planters, statues, decorative lanterns, a fire pit, or umbrellas. If you plan carefully, your outdoor setting can bring you and your family entertainment all year long.

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Source: http://www.santafenewmexican.com/life/home/article_bd0dea81-629d-5f57-aea0-66565925dfbb.html

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