Beyond the Basics - outdoor living

Take a good look. Did you realize that this is an outdoor space? Outdoor living spaces are all the rage. It's a place where we can entertain or just hang out and enjoy the gorgeous weather. More and more, these spaces are becoming as dressed up as the rest of our homes. Why not have comfortable and beautiful seating, furnishings and accessories? Revamp your patio or other outdoor area to resemble a room in your home. Those who are lucky enough to live in a climate where the weather is lovely more than three months of the year (unlike me here in the northeast!), can really benefit from the extra square footage.

I love the look of this space for so many reasons. The ceiling fan is one. Why not use a ceiling fan for those days when it's even a little warm to sit outside? And the sheer draperies... so light and flowy. I love the carpet, not only for the geometric pattern, but because it's used as it would be used inside, to define a seating area. Who says you can't put carpeting outside? How about that mirror? What a clever way to reflect the sunlight as well as give a blank wall an interesting artistic look.

Get creative, even if it is for just a few short months.

---