Make Your Outdoor Space an Extension of Your Interior

When the weather gets warmer, spending time outdoors becomes a top priority. Whether you enjoy your morning cup of coffee or want to spend the whole day reading outside, your exterior space should be as cozy as your interior. It may seem like there are strict boundaries and significant differences between the appearance and functionality of indoor and outdoor spaces. However, a seamless transition between the two is easy to achieve and can help add more functionality and entertainment space to your home overall.

Here are five tips to help you make your outdoor space an extension of your interior:

Design with Cohesive Materials and Colors

An easy way to have cohesion between your interior and exterior living spaces is to use the same design style and color palette in both areas. If your indoor space is full of boho elements and earthy colors, extend that outdoors with floor pillows, natural colors, and an eclectic area rug. Remember, not all materials are suitable for the outdoors as they can rust, dry rot, or fade in color. When picking out your decor, ensure it can withstand all weather conditions.

Find Complementary Outdoor Furniture

Invest in quality outdoor furniture that mimics the style and functionality of your indoor furniture. For example, sofas, lounge chairs, and coffee tables are great inclusions if your outdoor space connects to a living room. A dining set is a no-brainer if your area is off the kitchen. Furniture helps create an inviting and comfortable feeling so you can entertain guests or relax and unwind on your own.

Use the Same Flooring

The outdoor flooring material you use should flow seamlessly into your interior. For example, if you have wooden or tiled interior floors, use similar wood for your deck or stone tiles for your outdoor area. Even if you have carpeted interior flooring, you can still create visual continuity in your outdoor space with an outdoor rug in the same color or pattern. Whichever material you choose, ensure it is suitable for all types of weather.

Create Shade and Privacy

Adding a vertical element can help the continuity between your interior and exterior, as it defines a space more clearly than a deck or patio alone could. For example, pergolas, canopies, umbrellas, and retractable awnings can create a cozy outdoor environment while protecting you and your guests from the sun. For more privacy and seclusion from your neighbors, consider adding privacy screens, fences, hedges, or large plants around your outdoor area. Some plants are indoor/outdoor variations, so you could use those in both spaces for an extra touch of cohesion.

Incorporate Lighting

Another way you can extend your interior style outside is with lighting. Though the reasons you need the light will be different, choose fixtures in similar styles, metals, and finishes to tie the space together. For example, if you have modern light fixtures indoors, choose modern wall sconces to flank your doors outside. You can also use pathway lights to guide you and your guests to and from your outdoor space.

Don’t consider your indoor and outdoor spaces as two separate entities anymore. Follow the tips above or ask our experienced designers to help add more functionality to your home and extend your interior living outside.