Creating Defined Outdoor Spaces

Utilizing our outdoor areas is a great way to expand on the space our homes have available. A cozy outdoor living area can be the perfect retreat. Creating defined outdoor rooms might seem like a maintenance headache of intricate landscaping but it doesn’t have to be that complicated. Inviting, distinct spaces can be carved out with any number of simple design arrangements. Here are just a few methods:

Dividers and Privacy Screens
There are so many simple screens and dividers available for the outdoors! Folding or hanging screens, large planters, living walls, curtains and even outdoor lighting can easily and beautifully define a section of your backyard into an inviting outdoor room.

privacy screens
(above left: gardeners.com, center: plowhearth.com, right: thegardenglove.com)

Destination Points
An open expanse of yard can become a defined space by creating a destination point. A seating area, a raised or sunken patio, an outdoor fire pit, or an outdoor structure create functional retreats where family members and guests can spend time.
Outdoor structures
(above left: bhg.com, right: lowescreativeideas.ca)

Furniture Arrangement
Yards and patios can be divided into functional spaces with well designed furniture arrangements. Carve out gathering points and individual, private retreats by strategically selecting and placing outdoor furniture.
Curved Seating
(above: decozilla.com)


Visit our pinterest board for more examples of defined outdoor spaces.

The Beautiful New Look of Outdoor Fabrics

Say goodbye to coarse feeling, industrial looking outdoor fabrics. Today’s outdoor fabrics are colorful, soft, versatile, and stunning enough to use indoors. But even as they become more beautiful, they increase in durability. Quality outdoor fabrics from brands like Sunbrella and Waverly are antimicrobial, mold and mildew resistant, sun resistant, water resistant, and hold up well under frequent cleanings.

And just look at the outdoor rooms you can create!

2013 Coast Living Magazine Idea Home, Sunbrella

With design options likes these, outdoor rooms are truly an extension of your indoor living spaces.

SunbrellaDecor2

These outdoor fabrics aren’t just for cushions either. Create gorgeous transitional spaces with outdoor drapery, a shady oasis with awnings, umbrellas, and pergolas, and bring it all together with beautiful, durable accessories like throw pillows, blankets, and rugs.

Here are just a few of the many design options available:

Bring on the sun and fun! These beautiful new looks are ready to weather the elements.

A Look Back at 2014 Trends

January is an exciting month for kitchens and baths. The annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS 2015) is once again lighting up Las Vegas where the newest trends will be emerging and we are so excited to see what is coming! We will share the new trends with you later this month. Stay tuned!

First, we want to reflect on the highlights from 2014. KBB asked designers to share their favorite trends from last year. (You can check out the full KBB article here.)

Here’s a rundown of some of the favorites:

  • Outdoor Living Environments

    • Homeowners are extending their living spaces to the great outdoors with outdoor kitchens, living rooms, and even bathrooms. Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet is one of the best names in building gourmet outdoor kitchens. See some of their gorgeous designs on the Kitchen & Bath Industry pinterest page. When planning your outdoor living spaces, remember to select components that can withstand the elements.

    Kalamazoo kitchen

  • Traditional Kitchens

    • The pros quoted in this K+BB interview indicated that traditional kitchens are becoming more popular than trendy kitchens. They are seeing a trend toward the timelessness of handcrafted, built-to-last furnishings that lend a sense of permanence, with furniture-style cabinetry and islands. Actually, I am seeing quite the opposite trend with my clients. I am seeing many more homeowners heading toward the cleaner lines of Transitional style kitchens.

    traditional kitchen by david stimmel

    Some homeowners are crossing they style lines by blending traditional and modern elements for a fresh take on classic designs. These homeowners want the traditional style but they want something a little different at the same time.

    Crossing Style lines

  • Kitchen Great Rooms

    • Kitchen Great Rooms and open-concept kitchens are allowing homeowners to remain a part of the conversation with family and guests whether they are preparing meals, eating, or entertaining. The trend is toward defined work spaces that integrate seamlessly.

    white kitchen and great room by brown design inc

  • Spa Experience Bathrooms

    • Homeowners are seeking out calm, serene retreats from the stresses of daily life by creating spa experience bathrooms.

    spa bathroom

See more photo examples of these trends on our pinterest board.