Weekend Warrior Project: Refresh Your Outdoors in an Afternoon
Learn simple but standout ways to give your space an update in a few hours.
Whether inside or out, color sets the mood and impacts the look of any space. Consider the hues that not only best compliment your natural surroundings, but also pair well with your existing furnishings.
In this space, we went with a neutral base and added in pops of color for a tranquil but inviting feel. With neutral furniture, accent colors don't have to be crazy to stand out. We pulled shades from the surroundings: soft teal from the ocean, purple and yellow from the sunset, and beige from the sand. The soft teal and beige lend a calming feeling, while yellow brightens the look up just a touch.
2. Get Cozy With It
Have your guests clamoring for an invite back by creating a swoon-worthy space. How you ask? Add three simple indoor luxuries: an eye-catching rug, plush pillows you can't help but sink into, and cozy throws for guests to snuggle up with when the party transitions from day to dusk. These inviting necessities help add color, pattern, and texture—and your personality!
We used a striped rug to lend subtle visual interest, and the taupe color nods to the sandy beach just steps away.
Tip! Many rugs are made to be used indoor and out. When making your selection, look for the material polypropylene, which will help resist mildew—and increase a rug's outdoor lifespan!
3. Use Your Green Thumb
Adding plants to your outdoor space ups the lush factor and makes a space effortlessly inviting—especially if you've got one that lacks natural greenery, such as an urban deck or patio. In urban areas, we love flowering plants for a colorful contrast against the harsh brick and concrete. In this ocean-side oasis, we used a mixture of hardy, sun-loving succulents to bring life to the space.
Tip! Include plants native to your region (or the ones you have in your landscape) to create a seamless, organic feel.
4. Add in Some Personal Flair
When it comes to decorating, keep it simple (add visual appeal using objects both old and new)! For this space, mixing found-on-the-beach driftwood with sleek new metallic lanterns gives off the ultimate shore-side vacation vibe—and also helps illuminate the party come nighttime. With a revitalized outdoor space, don't forget a few indoor entertaining musts to impress all your guests—toss those red solo cups and say hello to ice buckets and shatterproof wine glasses!
Tip! Near the beach? Add driftwood, coral, sea shells, or starfish to table tops. By using elements from your environment, you'll create an effortless, cohesive ambiance.
