One
of Studio J Architecture’s favorite challenges is creating an illusion of
outdoor spaces that look and feel like a continuation of indoor spaces. We have
mentioned creating an outside room as a solution to increasing your space in
our Small Home Blog and
thought we would revisit the idea and supply some tips on extending your indoor
area into you outdoor area.
Making
your outdoor area a continuation from your indoor area can be done on any scale.
Larger budgeted projects might include new doors, windows, fireplaces and
flooring to create a feeling of similar or seamlessly transitioned space
between outdoors and in. This project is a perfect example. The flooring in the
house was chosen because it was effective both inside and out. Floor to ceiling
glass doors disappear into the walls and the railing was designed to literally
blend in to the scenery. Can you see the balcony railing below? It is there.
Making
this project look simple and streamline is extremely difficult. Water proofing
was our toughest challenge because everything needed to be hidden. Making
something look simple is very difficult.
Everything in moderation so find the best balance that suits your needs. No need to completely bring the world in or your world out. Don't you think this is a bit much?
It
is also possible to create an outdoor room on a budget. If floor to
ceiling remodel is not what you are looking for to bring the inside out (or the
outside in) here are some low budget tips.
The
first thing to take into account is the climate of the area. No use creating an
open area with couches, plush rugs and beautiful items when you have extreme weather
conditions and have to worry about storing the furniture at the first hint of
rain or snow. Keep in mind where you live and create a design idea around
that. If you are in a hotter climate think of misters or built in fans and of
shading. If you are in a colder climate think of heat lamps and fire
pits. Take into account the materials of the furniture you want and how
they will fade and wear in certain climates.
Remember
that the area will be an extension of your home so try using the same color scheme
and style to blend it in with the house. Usually keeping the flooring the same,
or even extending the wall colors to the outside, creates a flow from room to
room. The next step is to think of what the space will be used for. Will it be
for entertainment, an outdoor work space, a relaxation nook or a combination of
all three? Make a list of all the details and items you want in your
ideal space and set a budget to stick to. Getting creative can get pretty
expensive when you just go out and buy everything that catches your eye.
Don’t forget to think of the
small details. These will personalize your space. Water features will help
deaden traffic noise, mood lighting, lanterns or candles create a cozier area
and can be set up to highlight beautiful accent pieces.
If you have an open patio,
using the walls of the home, trellis with vines and potted plants will create a
sense of enclosure. It will also give you an opportunity to display unique
treasures and object d’art. Use mirrors to make the space seem larger and cast
more light into smaller areas. Create space by using different levels. Steps
off of the deck or even different height containers will help. Container
gardening is very helpful in small spaces. Grow some herbs for your garden and
bring fragrance into your space. They also create a sense of lushness and
there are a lot of varieties of plants that are low maintenance and
beautiful. Containers themselves are designed to be eye-catching and
unique and add to any room.
We love the idea of creating outdoor rooms and with summer
around the corner it is a great project to take on. Don’t forget the
margaritas… cheers!
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