Living Inside Out
The Great Outdoors: The last frontier of interior design
By Susan Pantaleo, ASID -- Furniture Today, May 26, 2008
It is the last frontier of design, the great outdoors. Bringing the outdoors in has been popular since the '60s introduced us to macramé, but the latest trend encourages us to bring indoor design techniques to enhance nature herself. The time is right to show shoppers how to expand their living space by bringing the comforts of home out into the fresh air.
The trend is primarily driven by lifestyle. Precious leisure time can now be enhanced by intermingling indoor activities with a relaxed outdoor setting. This modish concept aligns with the more casual approach to living and entertaining that is gaining popularity.
From an investment standpoint, it makes sense to stretch out and maximize every square foot of property. Outdoor rooms will fit onto back and front porches, balconies, and rooftops when a yard is not available. This newly realized space is encouraging shoppers to purchase furniture for the creation of at-home resorts, romantic dining alcoves, spiritual retreats and playgrounds for entertainment and recreation.
To enhance in-store displays, consider using a full- spectrum paint that is blended from all seven colors found in natural sunlight. It is a beautiful way to add a subtle glow that sets an outdoor mood for shoppers.
The hottest new idea is the outdoor kitchen with food prep and storage areas as well as high-performance grills, ovens and burners that make it possible for cooking to be part of the entertainment.
However, relaxing still tops the list of preferred outdoor activities. That can now include sitting around a fireplace, watching plasma TV or reflecting near a water feature. Any of these attractions will create the perfect anchor for new furniture arrangements. Concealed niches that extend from the main outdoor room can even be fitted with furniture that supports afternoon naps or open air showers.
The most successful outdoor spaces will be an extension of the home's interior style and color scheme. It should be designed as if it were another room in the home in order to maintain a visual and emotional connection.
Using nature as a backdrop, design can be more adventurous than in the home. Green grass, blue sky and house siding will be dominant colors to consider when selecting furniture color and style. Natural sunlight will wash out indoor color schemes, so bolder versions are in order for outdoor use.
Comfort and privacy are keys to enjoying these rooms. Both can be created with the use of landscaping, architectural features and furniture arranged for a sense of intimacy. Accessorizing open air spaces with weather-resistant chandeliers, rugs and artwork will make it cozy and appealing. Finishing off the area with drapes, cushions and toss pillows in high-performance fabrics will make it practical as well as beautiful.
