Backyard Decorating Ideas
Tips and Tricks for Backyard Decorating
By Lauren Flanagan

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Have a bland backyard and don't know what to do with it? Don't fret! Turn your outdoor space into a stylish retreat with these backyard decorating ideas.

The backyard is really an extension of the home and should be treated as such. Whether it’s used as a place to relax, dine, play, or entertain, make it beautiful with some of the following outdoor decorating ideas.

Plants, Flowers, and Containers
Plants and flowers are a huge part of the outdoor experience and add colour, shade, texture and a pleasing scent to the backyard.

• Besides favorite flowers, try decorating the backyard with fragrant plants and herbs. They look and smell great and can double as fresh flavoring for meals.
• Visually, it's important to consider the container as well as the plant. For a natural look, choose clay or stone (or lighter resin designed to look like stone).
• Reduce visual clutter by choosing containers that blend in with the surroundings.
• Use different combinations of container and plant sizes to create visual interest.
• Layer plants around the perimeter of the backyard, with taller plants in the back and smaller ones in the front to add depth.
• Repeat plant types and colours throughout the garden.
• Try vertical gardening. Hanging baskets and trellises can be used to maximize space and create a gorgeous garden from top to bottom. A lattice covered in vines can also block wind and create privacy.

Outdoor Furniture and Backyard Seating Areas
Beautify the backyard with outdoor seating areas. Whether they’re used for relaxing, entertaining, or both, outdoor rooms are an essential element of backyard decorating.

•Create functional seating areas in the backyard with comfortable furniture that people will want to spend time in, not just cheap plastic chairs.
• Use the same design principles that would be used indoors. Consider traffic flow, create conversation areas, and make sure there are tables where people can place their drinks.
• Design backyard seating areas in a style similar to that of the indoor rooms. A house full of classical furniture inside will look best with classical-style outdoor furniture.
• Lay an area rug made of a weather-resistant material. It will help define the seating area.
• Upgrade old and weathered patio furniture with slipcovers in an outdoor fabric such as Sunbrella, however don’t allow the fabrics to distract from the true focal point – the garden. Use a neutral color palette with a few accents that pick up on the colors of the garden.
• Create an instant deck or patio area with wood deck tiles that interlock. They’re easy to install and the natural material gives the backyard an organic look. Flagstone is also beautiful, but more expensive.
• Arrange furniture to capture the best views. Even the sunset can be a focal point.

Backyard Accessories and Lighting
When it comes to decorating it's all in the details, so don't ignore accessories and lighting just because it's outside.

•Lighting is important in any outdoor entertaining area if it’s going to be used in the evenings. So use plenty of lanterns and candles. Flameless candles are widely available if the traditional style isn’t for you.
• Strings of miniature white lights or paper lanterns add an inexpensive romantic element.
• Consider a water feature. It creates a pleasing, natural sound and can help drown out background noise.
• Use mirrors to reflect plants and flowers.
• If the budget allows, look beyond the barbecue to a full-service cooking centre. Purchase or build a barbecue island with storage, warming drawers and even a small fridge.

The goal when decorating a backyard should be to create a retreat that nurtures the lifestyles of those who live there. So when it comes to backyard decorating, create a space that reflects your individual tastes and accommodates yours and your family ’s favorite activities.

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Outdoor Decorating Tips and Solutions
Create a Beautiful Patio or Balcony by Following these Suggestions
by Lauren Flanagan

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Transform your outdoor space into a stylish oasis you'll enjoy all summer long. Make the most of the warm days and balmy nights by creating a comfortable and appealing outdoor living space.

When decorating an outdoor space it’s important to treat it just as you would any indoor room. Use furniture, fabrics, pillows and accessories in the same way that you would inside. There are a wide variety of outdoor-appropriate materials, so finding items that are suitable shouldn’t be a problem.

Tips for a Cozy Outdoor Space
• Create functional seating areas with comfortable furniture that people will want to relax in.
• Lay an area rug made of a weather-resistant material. It will help define the seating area, offer a comfy element outdoors, and if you so choose, add an eye-popping colour or bold pattern.
• Upgrade old and weathered patio furniture with slipcovers in an outdoor fabric such as Sunbrella.
• Lighting is important in any outdoor entertaining area if it’s going to be used in the evenings. Use plenty of lanterns and candles. Flameless candles are widely available if the traditional style isn’t for you. Strings of tiny white lights also add a magical element to any backyard room – they’re not just for Christmas anymore!
• Consider a ceiling. A pergola draped with hanging vines is romantic, a retractable awning is practical, and 4 posts with a sheet of canvas is very budget-friendly. No matter what the budget, there is a solution for everyone. With a roof over your garden room, even the rain won’t stop you from entertaining.
• Block wind and create privacy with a lattice covered in vines, or if space allows, a large hedge. Sheer curtains and blinds can also add privacy while filtering sunlight.
• Consider a water feature. It creates a pleasing, natural sound and can help block noise from neighbors and traffic.

Basic Rules for Decorating Outdoor Rooms
Style any outdoor room in a way that’s complimentary to the style of the home. Colors, patterns, and styles should reflect what’s inside. When guests walk outside it should be a seamless transition from the indoors out. Also, use the same principals as you would for indoor decorating. Spend money on classic pieces that will last, and have a little more fun with the accessories that can be easily replaced. Trendy accessories that will go out of style, and flea market finds that may not stand up to the weather for more than one season can be great.

Natural, and natural-looking materials always work well in outdoor rooms. Bamboo, rattan, and wicker (both natural and all-weather) will blend in nicely with the natural surroundings.

Keeping it Fresh
Treat your furniture properly and it will last for many seasons to come. Store it appropriately at the end of the summer and give it a good cleaning at the beginning of each season. There are many products that can be used to lengthen the life of various materials of patio furniture, so ask for the best ones at your local hardware or garden store.

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and savor the sunshine. Whether your outdoor space is large or small, your budget huge or nonexistent, there are plenty of things you can do to create a beautiful space that will last for seasons to come.

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