Design Ideas: How to Create an Outdoor Living Space

Whether a sprawling backyard or small city balcony, outdoor spaces of any size can easily be transformed for living and dining with the right furniture and finishing touches. Discover ideas for outdoor living spaces that are comfortable, inviting, and multifunctional.

Crosshatch Outdoor collection
Crosshatch Outdoor Settee front view.
Crosshatch Outdoor Settee
2 colors
Price reduced from C$ 6,385.00 to C$ 4,469.50 30% off
Crosshatch Outdoor Lounge Chair.
Crosshatch Outdoor Lounge Chair
2 colors
Price reduced from C$ 3,685.00 to C$ 2,763.75 25% off
Crosshatch Outdoor Coffee Table in Square.
Crosshatch Outdoor Coffee Table
Price reduced from C$ 2,265.00 to C$ 1,359.00 40% off

Determine the Design Purpose

How will your outdoor space be used? This will help you determine what type of outdoor furniture to choose. Do you want an outdoor living room for lounging, mingling with friends, and enjoying cocktails? Or a dining area for alfresco gatherings? Or, perhaps, a large outdoor entertainment area for both relaxing and dining?

Next, consider the number of family members and guests you entertain on a regular basis. How many seats will you need? Measure your space, accounting for traffic flow. For example, make sure all exterior doors can fully open, and allow for at least three feet of space around the perimeter of your outdoor dining table to comfortably move chairs.

Choose Furniture to Fit Your Needs

No matter the size of your outdoor space, purposeful design choices will make it functional and inviting. Delineate spaces for lounging and dining with different types of furniture.

The new Crosshatch® Outdoor Collection brings the comforts of home outdoors. Crosshatch seating features an airy lattice of parachute cord on solid teak frames, topped with soft Sunbrella® cushions. Gather the Crosshatch Settee and a pair of Lounge Chairs around a fire pit or coffee table to create a welcoming space for cocktails and conversation. Add a solid teak side table, or two, for beverages and snacks.

If you have an outdoor kitchen or grill, create an alfresco dining area. The Eames Outdoor Table features a durable laminate top and comes in a range of shapes and sizes to suit different types of spaces. Pair it with the Eames Wire Chair in powder-coated steel, which can be used both indoors and out.

If you’re looking for boldly hued outdoor furniture, choose a color palette that complements your home’s exterior and landscaping. The Herman Miller x HAY Collection features classic Eames designs reimagined in new hues and materials—including those for outdoor use. With a cast-glass top and powder-coated steel base, the monochromatic Eames Table comes in two vibrant hues. The collection’s Eames Wire Chair is made of airy, powder-coated steel wires in four colors and is offered with an optional cushiony seat pad.

Finally, add a sculptural seating element to dining and lounge areas with the Magis Spun Chair or Voido Rocker. Both are playful patio furniture pieces that invite interaction—ideal for family-friendly outdoor spaces.