Rare-Earth ElementsBY KAILIE MCNABB
Using Design for a Great Outdoors
Who said the backyard is not considered a room? The latest trend in interiors is not just the inside of a home—designing a living space outside, using all the elements that are typically used inside, is now considered an extension of your living space. The outdoor living areas are great for entertaining or getting cozy with a glass of wine and a good book. Here are a few trendy ideas to accentuate your patio.
1. Color
Color sets the mood of the outdoor room. The colors portrayed can soothe the soul or set the tone for entertaining. For instance, blue is soothing and calm for a design set, while oranges and reds are better colors for entertaining and conversation areas.




2. Lighting
This is the element that creates the ambience. Lighting is the most important element in design. Soft lighting outdoors with candles or gas lamps can be romantic, and other chandeliers, sconces, or fire pits can be great for entertaining. Getting this warm, inviting outdoor space doesn’t require a huge patio or porch. The trick to creating a great area in a limited amount of space is the scale of furniture and items, and engaging those four elements!




3. Textiles
Choosing the right fabrics for the outdoors can be challenging, but it can also make the necessary difference. Outdoor drapes are the hot trend right now. They can make the space feel intimate and cozy and make a statement at the same time. The use of good textiles can make the outdoor living area feel like a retreat.




4. Visual Texture
Having a variety of texture in the space is key to designing any room. It creates a sense of harmony that makes the “outdoor room” feel like you are inside the home.
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