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Decorating for Your Outdoor Garden by Sam Stylist
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Decorating for Your Outdoor Garden |
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Family & Parenting
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There's nothing more peaceful and inviting than a well-appointed outdoor space for early morning coffee or an evening cocktail. Outdoor living spaces that are actually designed for living have become high on the list of priorities for homeowners over the last few years. Outdoor decorating requires some special considerations that aren't an issue for the indoors. Shade is a major plus in planning an outdoor room; if you have none, it's time to invest in an umbrella, shade sail or other sun-blocking apparatus. The weather in your region is an important factor to consider when choosing outdoor furniture and accessories. High winds can carry off anything that's not secured down, frequent rain can cause cushions, rugs and curtains to mould and metal to rust, and fabrics and some plastics can fade with frequent exposure to sun. Before outfitting your garden with furniture, plan ahead and choose materials that are suited to your climate, or have a plan in place for protecting your furnishings during inclement weather. Your outdoor space should reflect the way you live. If you entertain often, provide plenty of seating areas with ample table space for setting drinks and plates. If you love to lounge, select comfortable furniture that lends itself to an afternoon with a good book. A dining table is essential if you enjoy eating al fresco. Think about all the ways you will use your outdoor space and design it specifically to accommodate your lifestyle. Patio sets can be purchased at your local home improvement store or any big box retailer. However, you needn't limit yourself to matched sets if you have a more eclectic taste in decorating. Comb thrift stores, antique stores and sites like Craigslist for unique garden furniture, from wrought iron cafe tables and chairs to mid-century modern loungers. With proper sealing, nearly any piece of furniture can withstand the outdoors, so keep an open mind if you come across a piece you love that isn't necessarily meant to be used outside. Once the outdoor tables and seating are in place, it's time to light your space. Lighting is essential for enjoying your garden space at night. String globe lights above your outdoor space and hang Chinese lanterns in a tree. Place citronella candles strategically around your space, which will provide a cosy ambiance and keep the mosquitoes at bay. Solar stake lights can be tucked among plants to illuminate and add depth to the surrounding yard and garden. Accessorize your space with garden sculptures such as gazing globes or concrete statues. Hanging plants add height to your space and pots of flowers bring the garden to the patio. An outdoor carpet will tie a seating space together and protect bare feet from hot concrete. Consider a decorative water feature such as a bird bath or wall fountain to make your space feel cool on particularly hot days. Above all, be creative and make your outdoor space a haven that makes you feel like you're on vacation. An Interior Design Consultant/Stylist for Super A-Mart- Australia's leading Furniture Retailer, Sam writes about interior design and loves to help people transform their homes, rooms and spaces into their ideal living spaces. You can read more of Sam's writing at the Super A-Mart Blog.
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Home Improvement, Outdoor Garden, Garden Ideas, Outdoor Furniture,
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