Many of us put tons of time and attention into every detail of the living spaces inside our home, but what about the outside? With our Midwest winters, it only makes sense for us to make the most of our outdoor time during the fair-weather months—and what better way to do it than with a cozy, comfy, could-spend-all-day-there outdoor living space? Read on for some easy tips on how to create the most enviable outdoor living space you can imagine.
How Do You Make an Outdoor Living Space?
There is no doubt that taking our living areas, dining rooms, or even office spaces to the outdoors is trending. In fact, it is one of 2021’s big gardening trends. But, where to begin? Regardless of the size of your space, we guarantee that you can make the most of it. Here we will outline how to do so on a budget—and what elements to include in your new backyard hangout. You may also want to take a look at our other blog 'Amplify Your Outdoor Space with These Entertaining Accessories.' Yes, this trend is so hot, we are supplying you with all the details—you just need to bring the drinks!
Can You Make an Outdoor Living Space on a Budget?
Honestly, your outdoor living space can cost as much or as little as you want it to. If you have the means and want to go all out on the most luxurious patio furniture—please don’t let us stop you! But, if you’re looking to create an outdoor living space on a budget, there are plenty of ways to do so without compromising style or quality.
Do-it-yourself videos and tutorials, as well as yard sales, can be your best friend when you are looking to style a room (indoor or outdoor!) on a budget. You can repurpose an old bench into a porch swing, make a statement with a dramatic patio entrance by painting and hanging an old garden gate between two wooden posts, or create a living wall with some quick-growing climbing vines and lattice.
Essential Elements of an Outdoor Living Space
An Escape From the Sun
While it is nice to sit out in the sun and soak up the rays for a short time, a shady, breezy spot is much more inviting if you’re planning on putting in some solid hours in an outdoor living space. Adding a trellis or a pergola with some climbing vines will add a whimsical feel and protect you from the sun without blocking out your entire sky view. If you’re not comfortable building these pieces on your own or don’t quite have the budget for that part of the project yet, there are some pretty adorable patio umbrellas out there that will also do the trick!
Privacy
Creating walls in your outdoor living space will define the space and offer a little bit of privacy and shelter from the elements when needed. You can do this by utilizing a balcony railing or an existing set of shrubs. Or, if you are creating this element from scratch, consider installing weather resistant curtains (they’re pretty dreamy, to be honest), or even define your outdoor space with an informal hedge. Try planting a row of perennials with a bit of height or a line of new shrubs.
