Are you itchin’ to get full-into that outdoor relaxation mode, family recreation, or shorts- and-sandals entertaining? If so, you might be thinking of changes you would like to make to your outdoor space.
Start with the obvious
Reevaluating your furniture choices is a great place to start. Is it boring? What does it say about your personality? With today’s variety of performance fabrics, there is no reason not to have fun colorful cushions. Take advantage of the wide variety of options: bistro sets, chic chaise lounges, hammocks, wooden beach chairs, outdoor sofas, and gliders.
The most important consideration is how you want your patio, porch, or deck to function. What’s the range of the number of people you foresee using the space and the amount of yard space you have to work with.
If you have a pool, how will you divide the space among the swimmers and splashers, the sun bathers, the yard-game competitors and the loungers. 
If you have a smaller backyard, you can allocate space for about two to three people to sit there together. Sleek, colorful folding chairs or stackables that can be moved or stashed away easily are great choices for a small space. If you want a relaxing place to read or enjoy the outdoor breeze, a hanging chair can just the right addition to your outdoor retreat.
Add to nature
Even though your space is outside, adding greenery and plant life can add pizazz. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed potted flower or shady tree. You don’t have to be a landscape designer or have a green thumb to add plants to your backyard oasis. Just find either real greenery that can thrive outdoors or fake plants that can add the same beautiful effects without the hassle. Here are some outdoor plants that are easy to care for and look great:
- Succulents: These increasingly popular and easy-going plants thrive in the sun and need very little water.
- Trees: Provide ample shade with a small- to medium-sized tree of any kind. Take advantage of our Pacific Northwest Pines and indigenous trees and start by nestling your outdoor space among the trees.
- Palm plants: If tropical is what you want, palm plants can deliver. These fast-growing greens can add shade and flair to any pool.
- Flowers: As broad as this category is, there are hundreds (if not thousands) of varieties of beautiful blooms that can bring color and style to your backyard. Flowers can be displayed in large pots or cut and showcased in decorative vases. When hydrangea are in bloom, I like to cut them and display them on my outdoor table.
Smaller potted plants can live on tabletops or beside your pool’s edge, while trees and palms can be placed toward the corner or your seating area, creating a shaded and comfortable place to enjoy your backyard. Hanging plants are another way to surround yourself with greenery.
Perfect your lighting
While the summer days are long, the right lighting can extend your outdoor enjoyment.
Good lighting can build an intimate ambiance, initiate conversations, brighten outdoor meals and enhance the use of a pool, no matter the time of day. Create the ultimate staycation with these light options: 
String lights are not just for Christmas. Golden globe lights can make any midnight swim or late-night cocktails more delightful.
For those who have a covered patio, trellis or pergola, track lighting is an easy-to-install option that looks great. Most track lights can withstand the outdoor elements all year round, and they quickly adjust to brighten or dim as needed to ensure you always have the right amount of light.
Outdoor ceiling fans provide light and a nice breeze on those warm summer evenings. Lamps and candles offer other options for creating soft, outdoor lighting.
Outdoor Dining
Outdoor dining is one of the best ways to enjoy your space with family and friends. Outdoor kitchens allow us to gather with friends and family while preparing a delicious meal. Gathering around a table for delightful conversation while sharing a meal creates a lasting memory.
Adding a Fun Entertainment Element
There’s S’more. Don’t forget a firepit or outdoor fireplace for those tasty chocolate/marshmallow treats.
Consider a TV for movie nights.
How about custom cornhole boards? Maybe you’re the ones to revive badminton in your neighborhood—or introduce it. A whiffle ball area could be fun for old and young alike.
Need help bringing your ideas to life — My team and I can create your dream space for you! Contact Christine at (503) 858-8603 or [email protected] to schedule your 15 minute Discovery Call.
Remember, It’s not just a space: It’s an outdoor lifestyle… It’s YOUR outdoor Lifestyle!
