Whether you have a sprawling backyard, patio or just a small balcony, outdoor space is a premium. So why not make the most of it? When it comes to outdoor enjoyment, here are some general tips to keep in mind.
BACKYARDS
Backyards should not be overly cluttered. If you have sizeable land, why not allow room to enjoy it? In many instances, one of the best uses of an open and spacious backyard is to create different areas, such as a opportunity for gardening, children’s play or outdoor cooking. The key is to not overbuild and still allow space for games and relaxation.
PATIOS
Patios or decks are often perfect spaces for outdoor dining and entertainment. A great use may be an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area. When setting up an outdoor eating or dining space, one rule of thumb is to allow enough room for both your family and if possible, two to four additional guests.
BALCONIES AND TERRACES
Just because you have a small outdoor space or live in an urban environment doesn’t mean you can’t get the most of your outdoor space. One of the best and most efficient ways to achieve this is to divide your outdoor space into clear and distinct zones, like an entertaining zone, lounge zone and a dining zone.
ADDITIONAL OUTDOOR SPACES
If you have additional outdoor space in which to build, you may want to consider adding in some enhanced amenities like fire pits, spas, gardens and pools.
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Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com .
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