16 TOOMBS COUNTY MAGAZINE
ADD SEATING
The purpose for outdoor rooms is typically
for lounging and entertaining. So, look for
furniture you want to sink into and that
creates a cozy, inviting environment. Weather
and fade-resistant fabrics are a must because
they dry faster and are resistant to mildew.
Arrange the outdoor space as you would an
interior one to allow for easy conversation. If
the space allows, you can even create different
seating areas and a table for eating.
SHED SOME LIGHT ON THE SITUATION
Tiki torches are a nice addition for parties,
but to truly mirror the intimacy of a regular
living room, ditch them for traditional
lighting. Overhead and tabletop light sets the
mood for a nice evening while still offering
plenty of task lighting. With outdoor rooms
becoming a staple item in newer homes,
manufacturers now offer a variety of beautiful
and affordable chandeliers, lamps and
candelabras that are interior worthy, but
graded for exterior use.
SHINE IT UP
Adding accessories and spots of color complete
an outdoor living room. Accent pillows
and drapes made of fade- and weather-resistant
fabrics will soften the space and help
distinguish it from the rest of the backyard.
They also allow your design aesthetic to
carry through from indoors. Large planters
and divider screens can help further define
the space, but make sure you choose plants
that won’t have to be moved once they reach
maturity. Once you have a design theme for
the space, select additional furnishings based
on your lifestyle–a bar cart for entertaining,
a coffee bar or table if you use the space to
enjoy your morning latte, or a table for
al fresco dining.
LITTLE EXTRAS
Outdoor rooms allow us to be a little more
creative with our choices. In an outdoor
room you can do something unexpected, like
hang furniture from the ceiling. Wide, comfortable
swings the size of sofas or even twin
beds are becoming much more affordable and
they can work perfectly in an outdoor living
room. Adding a string of lights across the
seating area provides light and ambience, and
an open fireplace provides warmth so you
can use the space all year long.