Tips for Creating Great Outdoor Spaces

June 14, 2011 By Kristy

Listed below are my top 10 tips for creating great outdoor spaces.

 1.  Harmonize the design of your outdoor space with the style of your home.

 2.  Bring your indoor style outdoors.

 3.  Mixing & matching furniture (ex: iron & wicker) is a great way to add your personal flavor, but be careful not to have too many different styles going on.

 4.  Create a view to die for! A spectacular view from the inside will draw you outdoors more.

 5. Add water elements if space and budget permits (ex: pool, koi pond, or water fall). It’s amazing how the gentle sound of trickling water can be so soothing.

 6.  Use native plants in the garden and containers.

 7.  Select the best outdoor furniture you can afford.

 8.  Find inspiration in Shelter magazines.

 9.  Plant an herb garden near the dining area. Not only will they add a nice aroma to the space, but you’ll have a fresh supply to use in cooking.

 10. Make it personal and keep it comfy!

Love, love, love these outdoor spaces below. 

                

Ready to create an outdoor oasis in your backyard? Need inspiration…look around, it’s everywhere! Need an Outdoor Design Plan? We’d be happy to help!

Happy decorating!

Filed Under: Entertaining, Home & Garden, Kristy's Tips, Outdoor Spaces, Welcome Tagged With: ,

It’s Grillin’ Time!

May 9, 2011 By Kristy Leave a Comment

Did you know that May is National BBQ Month? Well, it’s no wonder with the beautiful weather and just right temperatures…at least here in Texas! Actually, we grill pretty much year round here in Big D, but outdoor entertaining picks up momentum as the weather gets warmer.

Speaking of momentum, outdoor entertaining spaces continues to be a big trend in new home design, as well as remodels.  There are a few theories behind the popularity of outdoor kitchen & living spaces, (for which I won’t bore you with here), but my non-scientific, simple theory is that men love to grill! Not only do they love to grill, they love big shiny masculine toys, and fire! Women love for men to grill…I suspect mainly because then they (women) don’t have to cook. At least that’s the plan at my house! And for that very reason, is why I think a woman was behind this movement. Genious I say, genious!

On a more serious note…outdoor kitchens and living areas yield a high return on your investment. In fact, according to the latest statistics, a seller can expect up to a 200% return on their investment. Here’s a little inspiration to get you started.

          

I was just out on Better Homes and Gardens site and saw some delicious-looking recipes. You can check them out here: http://www.bhg.com/recipes/grilling/.

Happy grilling!



Filed Under: Entertaining, Home & Garden, Outdoor Spaces Tagged With: