Designer Inspired Outdoor Spaces

***Please note that the following is not meant to take away from the severity of what is going on in our world today. My heart aches for those that are suffering physically and mentally and I do not take lightly the implications of this pandemic. I pray every day for healing and look forward to a time where the world can move on from this and prove to be better, together.***

Here in Texas, while on lockdown and quarantined due to a "Corona hangover"...errr - Covid 19 pandemic, we are all looking for ways to stay safe but also keep our sanity. Amongst the loads of google classroom docs we are all trying to stay on top of, plus trying to work from home and keep our kids happy & entertained....err - out of our hair - we also need to find a little sunshine out of all of this proverbial rain. So, just a thought to ease your cabin fever: Get outside and find a project! One of my personal favorite projects to tackle is redesigning outdoor living spaces. Updating your backyard, porch, patio or deck can be a quick way to liven up your space and also get your family outside and involved. Call it a field trip if you must! But, take advantage of this time and create a space that will in turn, create fun memories for years to come!

Pop in Some Color! Pop in Some Fun!

Whether your space includes a few simple chairs and a table or a lavish sectional with throw pillows, a view of a luxury pool, fire pit and dreamy fairy lights, a rug ALWAYS makes the design. I tend to lean into bold colors and complex patterns for most outdoor designs to add both texture and interest to the space. But, achromatic colors like black and white can be super enticing when paired with small pops of colors (like lime or coral). Accent with a few throw pillows or coordinating chair cushions and for a few hundred dollars - the job is done! For those that know me, know I love a good deal! And good deals are plentiful on these home and garden accessories at my favorite budget conscience stores - Home Goods and At Home! Now is the perfect time to place those orders. Curbside pickup is definitely where its at!!

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Illuminate your space!

Something simple and crafty to consider for the Pinterest fans out there - is letting your kids help by painting flower pots. Illuminate pathways at night with a simple upgrade to some of your favorite planters and pots! It's easy, affordable, and will keep the kiddos busy - which is a HUGE win if you ask me! All you need is Rust-Oleum Glow in the Dark Paint. It's a luminous, fast-drying paint which sprays on easily and will activate by absorbing the sunlight during the day which will then provide 4-8 hours of light at night. It's so fun and looks great too!

Another thing that "lights me up" is string and fairy lights. Add a glow to your summer nights by hanging these lights over your pool (I personally own them and can attest to how awesome they are!), or even just through some trees in your yard. Another option is to line your deck or covered patio with them and better yet - drape them over your outdoor dining area. Lights always make things more dreamy in my opinion! Now all you need is that bottle of red and a nice breeze in the evening to create a magical quarantine themed date night!

Plant the Rainbow

My dream backyard would consist of a healthy array of colorful vegetables in a raised garden alongside a mix of large succulents and  big, beautiful, showy flowers (such as roses), pavers and black crushed granite lining the back of my home. I love a gorgeous dewy grass to contrast the black details in the granite and colorful flower accents. But, I also think so much can be accomplished with a few affordable changes that pack a big punch when it comes to design! Easy to manage colorful perennials and climbing or wandering plants can really make a difference and can help save on budget too (buy a wandering or climbing plant and watch it grow and expand beyond measure! Or plant those perennials once and keep them coming back year after year!) Pop up a trellis along your fence line and plant some climbers! Crossvines are wonderful in the Texas region as they bloom pretty orange, trumpet flowers during the spring and summer. And in the fall and winter, their leaves turn purple and maintain through the cold season, keeping everything lively and lovely! Any pop color to your yard, front or back, is going to add a special design element to your outdoor appeal! And, I find gardening to be quite the stress reliever - so double win, especially in these times. 

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Thanks for Stopping By!

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