Make an Outdoor Room

Now that the days are getting warmer, you’ll want to log as much time outside as possible. Transforming outdoor patio space to make an outdoor room where you can relax and entertain is a great way to take full advantage of the warmer days. Think of it as the outdoor version of your living room—it should be comfortable, inviting and well-decorated. Take things like space and weather protection into consideration too. Here are a few more tips for creating the perfect alfresco room.

Columns and greenery make this outdoor room at 3052 River Road in New Hope.

Furniture As long you don’t live somewhere prone to hurricanes or other extreme weather during the summer months, you can use a lot of indoor furniture outside. While patio furniture is great for the outdoors, you and your guests are more likely to lounge longer on couches and chairs with overstuffed cushions. You can reinforce wood items with exterior paints and stains and even situate patio umbrellas over furniture so they can be more protected during the rain.
 
Lighting Set the perfect mood after dark. String lights and paper lanterns are great for festive outdoor lighting. If you’re looking to use less electricity, kerosene lamps are a nice alternative to candles since they won’t blow out. Tiki torches and citronella candles can do the double duty of lighting up the room as well as warding off insects.
 
Decorations Think of your outdoor space as a room, not just a patio, and decorate it as such. Start by laying a rug down that matches the furniture—this will really transform the space from patio to outdoor living room. Also think about incorporating art and sculpture. Be creative! It’s your room—deck it out!