How to Design Outdoor Spaces for Your Most Memorable Summer

Well, my lovely people, Spring is right around the corner (we hope) and I’m definitely looking forward to spending some long evenings on the porch soon.

Now, I don’t know about you, but I’m of the opinion that us Calgary natives know how to enjoy summer better than anyone else…

…which includes prepping our outdoor spaces for maximum enjoyment!

After all, why have a wimpy fireplace when you could have one that inspires the whole family to get together?

Exactly.

Today I’m sharing my top picks for creating spaces that let you relax, entertain, and enjoy every second of our best 3 months of the year.

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THE ESSENTIALS

If you’re looking to make the most of your outdoor space, whether you’ll be entertaining or not, these are the non-negotiables…

• Comfortable furniture, like conversation sets and sectionals

• Storage (trust me, you’ll need it)

• Mix and match dining sets

• BBQ and/or an outdoor kitchen setup

• Bar cart — and yes, I did mean for this one to go on The Essentials list

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KEEP THE MEMORIES FLOWING

Although these items aren’t exactly essential, they’re sure to keep the merriment flowing into the wee hours — be it a romantic, cosy, or lively evening. I’m also willing to bet these additions will make your outdoor space a hit with the kids, no matter how old they are.

• Fire tables

• Heaters

• Fireplaces

• Heated furniture (Galanter & Jones is a personal favourite)

• And don’t forget the throws for that person who is always cold (you know who you are)

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IMPRESS FAMILY & FRIENDS… SO THEY’LL STICK AROUND

If you aspire to have the best backyard this side of Banff, spice up your outdoor space with pieces that are quirky, colourful, and completely tasteful.

We love this outdoor furniture line we recently discovered at ICFF (an international furniture fair) in New York. Sergio J Matos’s rubber coated furniture is perfect for the outdoors and looks more like sculptures!

OUTDOOR LIGHTING FOR ADDED ENJOYMENT AND SAFETY

Besides the charming ambiance created by ubiquitous European string lights, we suggest landscape lighting, as well as highlighting any walking paths and stairs.

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Making memories outdoors means being able to enjoy your space no matter what time of day it is. (It also means that you don’t have to worry about your mother-in-law tripping on her way to the powder room.)

AREA RUGS FOR COMFORT AND COSINESS

With area rugs these days, you can do so much more than the beige sisal or big box reno store. You can get stylish and comfortable.

We personally love Dash and Albert indoor outdoor rugs. They’re stylish, environmentally friendly, and (if you don’t mind me saying) available through LBI!

from Dash & Albert

Now, put everything together, and you could have an outdoor space that looks like this!

So whether you’ll be relaxing with that special someone or entertaining the whole neighbourhood, go style your outdoor space with confidence and bring the good times to life!

You can soak up some more inspiration on our Outdoor Living Pinterest board.

See you next week,

XxLeAnne