How to Pull Off the Indoor-Outdoor Living Trend

The indoor-outdoor living trend is hotter than ever, especially in Florida, where we have plenty of sunshine almost all year long. So, how do you begin designing indoor-outdoor rooms that seamlessly blend both spaces? Begin by realizing that your outdoor space is valuable – it could be another room, an extension of your indoor space, and a perfect space for entertaining.

Creating the indoor-outdoor space of your dreams is a little bit like creating the kitchen of your dreams. It takes a little planning and attention to detail. These 5 tips below will help you design the perfect indoor-outdoor space.

1. Incorporate a Structure

Choose a structure to add depth and dimension to your outdoor space. It could be completely covered, such as a screened-in porch, or just a frame, such as a pergola. Whichever you choose will help define the outdoor space and make its purpose clear.

2. Take Notes from Your Home’s Architectural Style

When choosing materials for your landscaping, consider your home’s interior design and architectural style. Use the same colors from your home as primary or accent colors to keep the design cohesive. For example, the neutral palette in the outdoor room above matches the home’s style while the brick floor keeps continuity throughout the space. The result is an appealing space that reflects your home’s architecture. The Island Estate Lanai Weatherstone Dining Table from Tommy Bahama makes the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade.

3. Maximize Your Outdoor Living with Privacy Screens, Flatwork, & a Focal Point

There are tricks to living large in a smaller home. First, make the most of your outdoor flooring so that your outdoor space seems more spacious. Plant a tall hedge to soften the edges of your space and ensure privacy. This will create a more room-like feel.
Furnish and accessorize your outdoor room just as you would an indoor room. The Island Estate Lanai Outdoor Fire Pit by Tommy Bahama lets you enjoy the warmth of the fire while lounging in the wicker wing back chairs. Pottery and accent plants add dimension to your space and act as a focal point. A strategically placed water feature makes a huge impact, even from inside your home; visible through the sliding glass doors, it connects the two spaces.

4. Unify the Spaces with Indoor-Outdoor Flooring

Choose a flooring material that can be extended from the inside of your home to the outside living area. Not sure if you can extend your indoor flooring outdoors? Choose a color for your outdoor space that complements your outside color scheme. For example, if your house is beige and brown, and the indoor colors are blues and grays, use the outside colors of your home for your outdoor room palette.

5. Simplify. Less Is More

You may be tempted to incorporate everything you love in your outdoor space – a variety of hardscape materials, numerous types of plants, and a plethora of garden ornaments. While there is no right or wrong way to design the perfect outdoor space, careful editing will help your outdoor room blend seamlessly with our indoor space. Too many elements can create a disorganized, disheveled, and unplanned space. A carefully appointed outdoor room will give you a comfortable space for relaxing and entertaining.

Carefully choosing every item in your space will help bring your vision to life. But don’t stress too much about it, you’ll enjoy the space more if it reflects your style.

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