Regardless of temperature, it’s never too soon or too late to start thinking about improving your outdoor living spaces. If you want to spend more time outdoors, your backyard, side yard or even a small balcony can be the perfect place to get some fresh air.
If your outdoor space needs a refresh, try some of these simple upgrade ideas:
Add shade & privacy
Create shelter in your outdoor living space to improve your comfort and privacy. Conveniently, you can accomplish both goals at the same time by adding outdoor features like screens, fences or trellises.
For porches with an existing overhang, try hanging outdoor curtains for a simple shade and privacy solution. You can use light, airy fabrics to enjoy the natural light while sheltering your outdoor space from harsh rays.
For a boho chic approach, try adding eclectic patterns and colors. You can carry this style choice through to your outdoor furniture and decor to create a cohesive design.
Create an oasis with lush container plants
You don’t need expansive ground space to have a lush, beautiful garden in your outdoor space. There are plenty of options for container plants, both for functional and decorative purposes.
For a small space, vertical garden planters are ideal for adding greenery with a small footprint. Planting a personal herb garden is the perfect option for saving space while perfectly accenting your indoor or outdoor kitchen.
Try incorporating a mix of vibrant flowers in hanging baskets and tall, tropical plants in decorative pots to create the perfect backyard oasis.
Expand your seating options
A simple way to upgrade any outdoor space is by upgrading the outdoor seating and other furniture. If you like entertaining at home, it’s crucial to have enough seating to include your guests. To save space, try contemporary folding chairs with weather resistant cushions.
Arrange your seating around a focal point like an outdoor coffee table or fire pit. If your outdoor space boasts a beautiful view, focus your seating outward to enjoy it to the fullest. Incorporate lounge chairs and more upright seating to accommodate your every whim, from a quiet nap to an exciting outdoor dinner party.
Upgrading outdoor living spaces can be as simple as addressing your needs and personal style. By using these ideas as a starting point, you can take your outdoor space to a new level and enjoy it for seasons to come.
About the Author
Marsha Charles
Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018.
I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.
Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022.
Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.
