How to Create An Outdoor Living Space On Any Budget

 

It’s no news, summer 2020 has definitely looked different than most. Between schools closing early, water parks shut down and family vacations canceled, many of us have found ourselves spending more time at home. And after months sheltering in our homes, we are itching more than ever to get outside!

Whether it’s a hot, sunny day or a brisk summer night, one of the best spots to make family memories is in the backyard. Maybe you have an outdoor area that needs a little refresh, or possibly a blank canvas crying for help! Whatever the case may be, this article is for you. Here’s our designer tips on how to create an outdoor living space on any budget.

 

Start With Inspiration

Not sure where to start? Don’t fret! The best way to ‘get your feet wet’ is to start with some simple research. Pinterest, of course, is a perfect go-to for endless visual inspiration. If you’re someone who likes to think through the logistics, try using Google to find articles, blogs and pictures that will help you answer questions and get the job done.

Photo via Inspiration For Moms

 

Break It Down

Once you have some pretty pictures to get you inspired, make a list of your basic desires for your outdoor space. Here’s a few questions to consider:

• What existing space do you have to work with– a porch, a patio, a blank slate of grass? 
• Who will be using this space?
• What sort of activities will partake here?
• What amenities are you interested in including in your space– grill, outdoor kitchen, bar, firepit, fireplace, water feature, TV, etc.?

Photo via Net Luxury

 

Set A Budget and Timeline

As fun as it is to day dream the endless possibilities, the reality is good design comes with time and money. Rather than looking at it as a chunk of change, look at it as an investment. How can you consciously spend your money to not only improve the value of family time, but also the value of your home? Take the time to sit down and really do the math, and remember– not everything has to be done at once. Consider phasing the work over the course of the season, or even over the course of a few summers. Good things take time.

Design / Interior Impressions

Photo / Mackenzie Merrill Photography

 

Bring the Inside Out

You often here designers say ‘bring the outside in’. In this case, we want to bring the inside out! Consider your outdoor living space a secondary family or dining room. Think of the ways your family will use the space and what sort of seating will work best for your dynamic. Will you have family dinners out here? Game night? Sit-around-a-fire-drinking-wine night? Or maybe all of the above!

 

When it comes to investing in outdoor furniture, there is one thing we hope you take away: quality over quantity. For us Minnesotans, we know the weather can change drastically within a matter of days. Wind, rain, snow, hail– you name it, we have it. Make sure you are investing your money in quality, durable furniture that you know will last for years to come.

Photo via The Happy Housie

 

Landscaping, Flowers & Plants

First things first when it comes to landscaping; determine your hardscape. If you’re fortunate, you likely already have a porch or outdoor patio. If you’re not blessed with either of these, you have a few options to consider. Higher budget hardscapes include wooden deck frames, screened porches or poured concrete patios. If you’re looking for something a little more budget friendly, consider laying stone pavers or pea gravel down.

 

One of the most effective ways to give your outdoor living space some appeal is with flowers and plants! If you have space for vegetation (trees, shrubs, perennial plants), great! Consider hitting up your local nursery or hiring a landscaper to help find the right greenery for your yard. If room is limited, you can achieve great results at low cost with thoughtfully placed potted plants and flowers. Don’t feel like you have to purchase an abundance, just enough to give your space some zest and create a welcoming space! Ferns and annual flowers are a great starting point.

Photo via Jenna Sue Design

 

Lighting 

Whether your outdoor living space is attached or detached to your home, there are sever different lighting solutions for you to choose from. If your space is attached to your home, you likely have electrical running in the walls and or ceiling. Spruce up your outdoor living space with a ceiling fan, chandelier or table/floor lamps. Again, bring the inside out! If your outdoor living space is more exposed to the elements, some great lighting solutions include solar landscaping lights, string lights or tiki torches.

Photo via Bless’er House

 

Accessories That Change With The Seasons

Accessories are what make or break a space. It’s the small details that really pull a space together! Consider outdoor accessories such as lanterns, throw pillows and blankets, pots and dinnerware. Depending on your geographic location and seasonal use of your outdoor living space, also consider accessories that can change with the seasons. In addition, stores often sell products at crazy discounted rates at the end of each season, so you can stock up for next year!

Photo via The Cottage Journal

 

Consider Hiring A Designer

If you’re an avid DIY-er, taking on a project like this might not scare you in the least bit. But if you’re feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to begin, consider hiring a professional to guide you along the way. A designer can help you plan your outdoor living space to work for you and your family’s needs, source quality furniture and connect you with other industry professionals, such as landscapers and contractors, to get the job done right.

 

Ready to get started? Fill out the inquiry form on our contact page to bring your outdoor living space dreams to life!