Outdoor Living Spaces

Natalie Weinstein is President of Natalie Weinstein Design Associates, The Natalie Weinstein Home Decorating Club and Uniquely Natalie, a quality consignment boutique. Enjoy Natalie’s Long
Island Focus featured in House Magazine or call: 631-862-6198.

So – with winter hopefully behind us, spring is the time to think of your outdoor property as an extension of your living space.  Plan in the spring and you will ensure a great summer getaway within your own home.  

Here are some ideas to think about:

• Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits have become very popular for those chilly nights to extend the outdoor entertaining season.

• Pergolas define spaces and can be surrounded by seasonal foliage to create a destination in an area not on your deck or patio.

• If you use weatherproof fabric on furniture for your patio and deck that reminds you of your comfortable indoor seating, and use planters or potted plants to define the space, you will have a second den outdoors!

• If you need privacy, think of creative ways to screen your space from neighbors’ view with lattice, natural plantings, or even outdoor fabric curtaining.

• Add a hot tub for relaxing and entertaining, especially if you would like a water feature that is not a full-size pool.

• On the subject of water features, think of adding an area with a waterfall or a fountain for great visual effects.

• Create ambiance with proper lighting for enjoyment and function all through the night (light paths, focal points and seating areas).

• Create shady areas under umbrellas, awnings (retractable can be a consideration) and in gazebos or other structures.

• Use appropriate electrical wiring to play soft backyard music or guest karaoke. (Invite the neighbors so they won’t complain).  
• Create focal points for socializing with seating, ex: sofa areas, dining areas, built in deck seating or bar stools around the kitchen area (everyone loves to gather ‘round the chef).

• Create eye appeal with colorful plantings and planters that flower throughout the summer season or use perennial greenery which is a design staple.

• Use outdoor area rugs to define space and create an outdoor “room”.

And, if you’re lucky enough to have the space and funds, build your own pool house! Here's one which includes a full kitchen and bath, fireplace, T.V. and comfortable poolside seating. It is an all year ‘round “destination” hang out room that adds a new dimension to a stay at home getaway!