Outdoor Room Basics
Anyone can easily create an outdoor room. In general, the concept
encompasses a grilling and eating area, pulled together with a
hearth product, such as a fireplace, fire pit or chimney. Some
outdoor rooms are similar to indoor kitchens, with expansive counter
space and full food preparation areas complete with sinks and
plumbing. It is even possible to add a dishwasher and a refrigerator
to make trips inside to clean up or grab cold drink a distant
memory. Other outdoor rooms rake the concept further with the
addition of pizza ovens, cocktail bars, fountains, trellises,
patio heaters, spas and pools. Landscaping lighting and sculptures
are additional elements that can help create a cohesive feeling
within an outdoor space.
Sitting comfortably with friends or family in the backyard on
a cool summer evening, with a warm fire and dinner sizzling on
the grill, is pure pleasure. It is also the precise reason why
people throughout North America are turning their yards and decks
into inviting outdoor living spaces. People are extending the
comfort and luxury of their homes into the great outdoors, and
the result is the popular trend called the "outdoor room."
Popularity Yields Full-Featured Products
As consumer interest in the outdoor room continues to grow, hearth,
patio and barbecue manufacturers are developing stylish, full
featured products to enhance the comfort. convenience and pleasure
of entertaining or relaxing outside, no matter the climate or
season. Manufacturers now have extensive product lines that can
help extend a home's living space both literally and visually.
There are barbecues and fireplaces in all sizes and styles, from
simple to high-tech, and plush (or sleek) patio furniture and
accessories to help set any mood.
Creating An Outdoor Room
Creating an outdoor room is less about the quantity of
product and more about creating an outdoor living area that meets
a homeowner's idea of comfort and relaxation.
Here are some simple steps to help create the perfect outdoor
room:
Determine the Ideal Use of the Outdoor
Space.
Use a notepad to jot down ideas about how the space will be
used in all of its applications, from entertaining to relaxing.
Create a Wish List.
The increase in the number of magazine and newspaper articles
has created an abundance of information on outdoor rooms or
outdoor living spaces. Clip or print pictures and put them in a
notebook.
Review the Home's Style.
It's important to have an understanding of a home's
architectural style when creating an outdoor room so that the
outdoor space accentuates the home's indoor spaces. There are
products available for every taste and style.
Visit a Specialty Retailer.
Take the notebook and wish list to a specialty retailer that
sells hearth, barbeque and patio products. A specialty retailer
can help determine the materials and outdoor room products
available in an area and guide the final plan, as well as
coordinate installation.
Research the Products.
After obtaining the details from a specialty retailer, go online
to review products and manufacturer information.
Consider Fire and Food.
These are key elements in every well-designed outdoor room.
Position the fireplace as the focal-point, blend in the cooking
and eating areas and then consider additional features.
Think Foundation.
Stone patios, retaining walls, fences and decks are basic
foundation elements.
Draw a Plan.
The best way to achieve the desired end result is to sketch out a
plan. Don't worry about picture-perfect drawings - it's the
general idea that count's!
Build the Space.
Have fun putting the space together. Consider multiple
conversation areas for enhanced functionality and interest.
Use Landscaping as an Accessory.
Carefully placed trees and shrubs can add important texture and
appeal to an outdoor room. Select plants that change with the
season, offering different colors, blooms or scents depending on
the time of year.
Add the Furnishings.
Select comfortable patio furniture that invites people to
settle in for an extended period of time. Regardless of style,
outdoor furnishings are available to add beauty and character,
creating the atmosphere of a lush oasis. In addition to tables and
chairs for the eating area, consider chaise lounges, couches and
side tables.
Consider Lighting.
To extend the amount of time spent outdoors, consider lighting
for pathways, around pools, or to accentuate landscaping.
Details, Details, Details.
After all is said and done, there is always still more that can be
added. Decorative details such as an attractive table or a
favorite work of art can help turn a backyard patio into a
stunning outdoor room.
Getting Started with a Professional
A specialty retailer is a key partner in creating an outdoor
room. In addition to expertise and products, a specialty retailer
can offer key insights about what's available in a particular
area and what works best in a certain climate. To locate a specialty retailer go to
www.hpba.org.
Other professionals include home designers and architects.
Take it in Stages
Outdoor rooms are often created over a period of years to accommodate
large wish lists on limited budgets. During the first year, install
the hearth product and define the grilling and eating areas, then
accessorize the next year. Finish off the project with the installation
of landscaping.
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