The forecast may not look great for the weekend, but it is sure to warm up as we get further into July. Until then, it’s time to get your outdoor living space ready for you to relax and enjoy! Whether you only have a deck or a huge backyard, there are a few key tips to keep in mind when you’re putting your outdoor space together. There are many different decorations, accessories, and objects you might be enticed to buy, but keeping your style simple and practical will not only create a welcoming feel but also keep your outdoor space from becoming cluttered and disorganized.

Multi-functional pieces

When you’re picking out furniture for your space, consider pieces that can serve multiple purposes, especially if you are working with a small space. For example, a bench seat can also be used to store cushions, and coffee tables can be used to set food and drinks out as well as store toys or smaller cushions. An ice chest can also be used to store ice and keep food and beverages cold while also acting as a side table.

Keep décor minimal

Sticking to neutral pieces will extend their longevity, but colour can be brought in with cushions and throw pillows to make the space more vibrant. When you’re purchasing cushions and pillows, make sure that you purchase fabrics that are durable and don’t over-purchase throw pillows. Only buy the number of items that you actually need. Remember, all of these items will need to be stored over the winter and in bad weather.

Consider what works with your space, and what works with our weather. For example, wrought iron furniture is durable but heavy, and might not be easy to move and store. Whicker is weather resistant but some pieces can be bulky and may not work with your space. Sectional couches can maximize space while still offering a lot of seating, and may be a good option if you don’t have room for multiple couches and chairs. Weather resistant carpets are a great way to protect feet and keep your patio or deck clean while also bringing some style to your space.

Add some greenery

Make use of your natural outdoor surroundings and add a pop of colour with planters or a small flower bed. Planters come in all shapes and sizes, so you can use one that fits your space, whether it’s around your backyard or a simple pot on an outdoor coffee table. If you’re tight on space, you can create a “hanging” garden but planting flowers or herbs on a wall-mounted planter on the side of your house or shed. However, you’ll need to keep in mind that these plants will have to be watered and looked after all summer. Try to keep all of your gardening tools close by with a gardening caddy or storage bench. This way, you will have easy access to regularly used items like watering cans and gardening gloves.

Let there be light

Lanterns or string lights can provide much needed light to a space, especially when you’re enjoying a beautiful evening outside with friends and family. String lights and lanterns can also provide a decorative element to your outdoor space, and many can be used as decorations inside during the off-season. String lights are also relatively easy to store, and can be wrapped up like Christmas lights to prevent tangling. Try making your own storage system or purchase a storage container like this option.

Your outdoor space can be warm and inviting without over cluttering your yard. By using simple and practical pieces with a few pops of colour or greenery, you can transform your deck or patio in time to enjoy the warm weather ahead!

Summer is here, and that means getting the most out of whatever outdoor space you have. In Calgary, our summer is typically limited to two months, and even then, those two months aren’t guaranteed. It’s important to keep this in mind when decorating an outdoor space because some ideas, while they might look or sound like a good idea, might not work with the weather we can experience here in the city.

- Establish what space there is, and what it will be used for. If the space is tiny, figure out what kind of space you want to have. A place to relax? Cook and eat food? This will help prioritize what key furniture items will be needed and where they should go. If the space is larger and can have multiple areas for cooking and relaxing, plan out what area functions best for each activity. For example, having a barbeque and eating area closer to the house is more practical because it has closer access to the kitchen inside. Also, when setting up an entertainment set, it might be best to put it in a way that either doesn’t or does get sun, depending on your preference.

- Keep the basic furniture pieces and paint (if used) neutral or monochromatic. This way, when the items fade or become weathered, it won’t be as noticeable.

- Make accessories and accent pieces colourful. Cushions, curtains, pillows, and table cloths typically wear out faster, so go all out with bold colours or prints, and if they fade or get old, they can easily be replaced.

- Buy weather resistant cushions and decorations because Calgary is notorious for summer storms. Whether cushions are left out in the rain or the sun, having a waterproof and sun proof material means you don’t have to worry about replacing them as often. Furniture like couches or chairs with built in storage is also a great option for storing cushions and pillows if they are not weather resistant.

- Utilize wall space. This advice not only works in homes, but works outdoors as well. Most backyards and patios or decks offer wall or fence space that can be used to your advantage. Shelves or cupboards can be put up, or décor accents like outdoor art pieces, hanging flower pots, and light fixtures can be added for decoration and storage options.

Ultimately, what matters is that you create a space that you can use and enjoy! [INSERT TWEET THIS LINK]