6 Easy Tips to Create a Relaxing Indoor-Outdoor Space
What exactly is an indoor-outdoor space?
Indoor-outdoor spaces are one of my favorite rooms to design. You may be wondering, however, what exactly is an indoor-outdoor space?
An indoor-outdoor space is an area of the home that is openly connected to the outdoors. For example, a sunroom, screened-in porch, gazebo, covered patio, verandah, or any space that can be opened up entirely to the exterior. These spaces are ideal for casual socializing, relaxing, eating, or when we simply want to connect to nature.
Indoor-outdoor spaces are super enjoyable in the fall & spring, as well as the summer. Imagine a crisp fall night, wrapped in a cozy blanket, enjoying music in a hammock, on your candle-lit verandah.
With that in mind, I am super excited to share 6 easy tips to make your indoor-outdoor space so relaxing and delightful you will never want to leave. 💛
Bridgehampton Summer House by Natura Interiors. Photo by Lucy Schaeffer, Styling by Ed Gallagher/Big Leo Productions
Tip 1: Define the function(s) of your indoor-outdoor space
The first thing you want to do is define the function of your indoor-outdoor space. Basically, how the space will be used.
Will this be a space for lounging - similar to a living room, but more cozy & casual? Will you be using this area for informal dining? How about listening to music? Or perhaps for contemplation & meditation? Your indoor-outdoor space might combine several functions, however, getting clear on how the space will be used will help make your design decisions much easier.
Left: thepam.co.au; Right: Studio McGee
Tip 2: Keep your furnishings comfortable, flexible & easy to maintain
Three key elements to keep in mind when selecting furnishings for an indoor-outdoor space are comfort, flexibility, and ease of maintenance.
A deep-cushioned sofa, bean bags or a hammock, will provide comfortable seating and lounging options. For flexibility, I suggest adding a few pieces that are easy to move around, such as poufs & light-weight chairs. This will allow you to adapt and change your space as needed. Select performance fabrics such as ©Sunbrella for upholstery, resin wicker furniture, and rugs made of synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene (olefin). Removable cushions are always a plus, especially with pets :)
Left: The Tiny Canal Cottage; Right: Inspiration for Moms
Tip 3: Play with the sky
One of the most magical opportunities of an indoor-outdoor space is the “sky”. Remember how it feels to sit around a campfire and look up at the starry night? In an indoor-outdoor space we can play with the ceiling plane to lead our eye upwards, and help us connect to the vastness of the sky. For example, a trellis canopy, translucent fabrics, woven branches with sparkly lights.
Photo by Randy Fath
Tip 4: Layer your space with color, pattern & texture
Choose a palette that dances with nature - and your soul! Accessorize your space with poufs, throws and pillows in fun patterns. Layer natural textures such as wicker, hand-crafted textiles and weathered wood with contrasting elements, such as concrete & metal. Use natural materials, such as woven willow, to filter the sunlight and create a dappled effect.
Left: Bridgehampton Summer House, Photo by Lucy Schaeffer; Right: Carly Summers via onekinddesign.com
Tip 5: Create ambiance with lighting
The right lighting will make your indoor-outdoor space come to life at night, and create the perfect ambiance. Use vintage-style bulbs to add warmth, string lights to add sparkle, and candles for a touch of romance. Suspend LED lanterns, at different heights to add movement and a playful vibe.
Left: Tatiana Home Décor via onekinddesign.com; Right: Solar lanterns by Terrain
Tip 6: Activate the sense of sound
Activating the sense of sound in an indoor-outdoor space will top off the environment to perfection. Play music via hidden speakers (such as ©Sonos outdoor rock speakers), wind chimes, or a water feature! Our sense of sound is deeply connected to our emotions, especially joy.
Left: graduategardeners.co.uk; Right: Etsy
Bonus Tip:
The best time to start planning for your summer house or indoor-outdoor design project is now, the fall. With shipping delays and lack of product availability due to the pandemic, it is an excellent idea to get started early…don’t wait until the spring!
Photo by Tanny Do
Ready to get started with your indoor/outdoor project?
Indoor-outdoor spaces offer us a healthy way to enjoy ourselves and experience a sense of freedom in this (almost) post-pandemic world. The comfort and coziness of our home is extended to the greater outdoors, and we are inspired to socialize, to get in touch with nature and those things that are essential to our soul.
Click below to book a discovery call with me & chat about your indoor/outdoor project 🍃