How to Create a Relaxing Outdoor
How to Create a Relaxing Outdoor
Creating a relaxing outdoor oasis on your summer patio is a wonderful way to enjoy the warm weather and unwind in a tranquil setting. With a few key design elements and thoughtful choices, you can transform your patio into a tranquil retreat, allowing you to spend more time outdoors.
In this guide, we will walk you through a summer patio makeover that will enhance comfort, style, and relaxation.
Assess Your Patio Layout
You can start by assessing your patio’s current condition and layout. Take note of the available space, any existing furniture, and the overall condition of the patio floor, walls, and structures. Remove any clutter and debris to create a clean canvas for your makeover.
Identify Your Style
Before diving into the makeover, decide on the style you want to achieve. One popular patio makeover style is the coastal retreat style, which is characterised by aquamarine and turquoise colours, the use of nautical elements, and comfortable seating.
Another very popular style is the boho-chic style, which is known for its eclectic designs, vibrant colours, diverse patterns, mix-and-match furnishing, and cosy vibe.
If you want to create a Zen space outdoors, you should consider wooden elements, bamboo accents, water features, and a minimalistic design.
Choose Comfortable Seating
For a relaxing time, invest in comfortable and durable outdoor seating. Some great options include lounge chairs with plush cushions, weather-resistant sofas, and hammocks for ultimate comfort. Opt for materials like wicker, bamboo, hemp, rattan, or teak for a natural and welcoming feel.
Create the Right Amount of Shade
It is important to ensure that your oasis offers relief from the sun's rays. Consider adding an awning, pergola, or large patio umbrella to provide shade during hot summer days. You can also use light, gauzy outdoor curtains to add movement to your yard and give a touch of elegance to your patio.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Embrace the beauty of nature by incorporating natural elements into your patio design. You can place potted plants, flowers, and greenery around various strategic places to add pops of colour and vibrancy. A vertical garden or hanging planters can also optimise space while enhancing the oasis ambience.
Add Outdoor Lighting
You can extend the usability of your patio by incorporating outdoor lighting. Some great choices are fairy lights, bistro lights, lanterns, and solar-powered path lights that create a magical ambience that enhances the relaxing atmosphere. Also, consider dimmable lighting options to set the mood according to different occasions.
Introduce Water Features
The soothing sound of water can create a tranquil ambience in your outdoor oasis. Consider adding a small water fountain, a bubbling rock feature, or a reflecting pool to create a sense of peace and promote relaxation. Water features also add movement to your backyard and are an important feature of Zen outdoor spaces.
Install Outdoor Fans
If you live in a particularly hot climate, it is a good idea to add another element for ventilation and cooling. Outdoor ceiling, stand-alone or wall fans are affordable and effective to help keep the air circulating, throw out the warm air and bring in the cool air, creating a comfortable outdoor environment even on the warmest days.
Choose Durable, Low-Maintenance Furniture
Choose furniture that can withstand outdoor elements and requires minimal upkeep. Look for weather-resistant materials and fabrics that can handle rain and sunlight without fading or deteriorating quickly. To maximise the space and functionality, for your patio, opt for multifunctional furniture pieces. For example, a storage bench can serve as both seating and a place to keep cushions or gardening tools.
Consider a Kitchen and Bar
To the usability of your patio into cooler evenings, consider adding a mini kitchen, BBQ grill, or bar. An outdoor kitchen is a great place to enjoy cool summer nights with family and friends. You can also add an outdoor dining area to enjoy meals in the fresh air. Choose a dining table and chairs that complement the overall style of your oasis.
Build a Green Wall
If you have limited space on your patio, consider creating a vertical garden or green wall. You can use planters or hanging pots to grow your favourite herbs, succulents, or flowering plants, adding a splash of colour, vibrancy, and energy to your outdoor oasis.
Introduce Aromatherapy
A great idea to create a relaxing outdoor space is to enhance the sensory experience on your patio by incorporating aromatherapy elements. Plant fragrant herbs or flowers, such as lavender, rose or jasmine, that give a heavenly fragrance to your patio. You can also use scented candles or essential oil diffusers to add a pleasant aroma to the outdoor space.
Accessorise with Pillows and Throws
Add a touch of cosiness and style with outdoor pillows and soft throws. Choose water-resistant fabrics and playful patterns that enhance the comfort and aesthetics of your seating areas. If you experience particularly hot summers, it is a good idea to opt for a lightweight fabric that remains cool even in the warmest weather. If you design your patio for cooler summer evenings, you should consider soft and warm fabrics like wool to create a cosy outdoor oasis.
Install Outdoor Privacy Curtains
If you have an open patio, consider installing outdoor privacy curtains. These can be drawn for more seclusion or to shield the patio from harsh winds or excessive sunlight. You can opt for gauzier sheer fabric, which will provide you with some measure of privacy but also offer visibility of the outside activities. If you want complete privacy, you can opt for curtains made of opaque materials as well.
Introduce Feng Shui
Incorporate elements of Feng Shui to promote harmony and balance in your outdoor oasis. This involves paying attention to the flow of life energy (chi) by arranging furniture and plants in a way that allows energy to move freely through the space. This adds more vibrancy and life to your outdoor space.
Bottom Line
There are one thousand and one different ways to create a relaxing outdoor oasis. Experiment with some of the ones we mentioned above and see if you can transform your patio into an outdoor haven. You can also test and try other creative options of your choosing to make your area more comfortable and inviting.
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