Design Ideas: How to Create an Outdoor Living Space
Whether a sprawling backyard or small city balcony, any outdoor space can 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.
1. 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.
2. Figure Out Your Needs and Constraints
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.
3. Choose Your Key Outdoor Furniture Pieces
No matter the size of your outdoor space, purposeful design choices will make it functional and inviting. This means delineating spaces for lounging and dining using different types of furniture, which starts with determining your centerpieces.
Crosshatch® 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 Outdoor Settee and a pair of Crosshatch Outdoor Lounge Chairs around a fire pit or coffee table to create a welcoming space for cocktails and conversation.
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 boldly hued outdoor furniture is more your style, choose pieces in 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.
4. Tie Everything Together with Décor and Accent Pieces
As with any part of your home, an outdoor space’s design really comes together in the details. After you’ve chosen your larger furniture, it’s time to add bits of personality and purpose. For example, adding a solid teak side table, or two, makes the entire space feel intentional and also provides a place for beverages and snacks. Or, choose a vibrant coffee table to add a pop of color and a place to gather. To make your outdoor living space suitable for evening, find some lighting like the PC Portable Lamp to create a pocket of cozy warmth.