Outdoor Living Areas

Oct 7, 2010
Shannon Buck

Hammocks are great for relaxation. - Dennis Mojado

Outdoor living areas are easy to create. Most projects will not take much time, and many will not cost a lot of money to set up.

It is possible to create an outdoor living area that is both attractive and functional. This area can take many forms, including a kitchen or a patio with comfortable furniture for relaxing. Dining and napping areas are interesting ideas as well. Creating an outdoor area around a pool, on a patio or on the lawn will add value to your home and curb appeal, if the areas you update are toward the front of your home.

Outdoor Kitchen

Build this outdoor area with or without a cement floor and canopy. Choose durable outdoor appliances for the area. Create an area where all appliances and cupboard areas are connected. Decide on a sink that will serve the purpose for outdoor use, as well as a small refrigerator and grill. Install a cupboard for plates and bowls, and a drawer for silverware and grilling utensils.

Purchase a table, with an umbrella if a canopy is not built, as well as chairs. Be sure that the chairs have cushions for comfort. Place a couple of small outdoor tables in the area, with plants placed upon them, and plant some potted vegetables and herbs in the area for easy access when grilling.

Outdoor Living Room

Set up an outdoor living room with a canopy, if desired, and a fireplace. Provide attractive seating with pillows, and a table made of wood or a flat rock in the middle of the space. Place arbors around the area, and allow vining flowers such as moonflowers and cathedral bells to grow up them. Use ivy for a nonflowering alternative. Add a few tables with potted plants on them, as well as a homemade floral centerpiece for the table. Hang baskets of plants from above, if an open canopy is constructed.

Outdoor Relaxation

Put an area for relaxation out in your yard, utilizing a couple of hammocks as well as a few lounge chairs with cushions. Keep weatherproof pillows on hand, and the place will be able to be used for reading and napping. Use an area shaded by trees, and be sure that there are tables about for drinks and other items to be placed on when not in use.

A water feature would add a nice touch. Use a birdbath and a few bird feeders to attract hummingbirds and such, to watch while you are relaxing. Plant flowers around the parameter that will attract hummingbirds as well, such as the Black-Eyed Susan.