Tips for Curating an Outdoor Living Space

A big term at Gertens is outdoor living; meaning to create rooms outside that are similar to the ones you have in your home. There are many projects you can do to enhance your outdoor space for entertaining and enjoying this season.  A patio, deck, or yard can become an outdoor kitchen, dining room, living room, or all three depending on your space and budget whatever your need may be Gertens has the right products and staff to help you create your dream living space.

Flooring
There are many options to choose from when deciding on the flooring for your outdoor room. Ranging from gravel to irregular natural stone to cut stone to concrete pavers in random or formal patterns, think of your choice as you would the flooring in your home.  Try to match or compliment the style and colors on the exterior of your home so it will feel like a natural extension of your living space. If you already have a patio or deck, consider using a cleaner and sealer to refresh, enhance and protect the look. Or the addition of an outdoor rug can define a space and cover any unsightly areas if needed.

Furniture
In addition to patio furniture, consider more permanent built additions to your space. A concrete or stone counter and/or bar can provide a home for your grill and become an outdoor kitchen with the incorporation of a cabinet or refrigerator.  A freestanding wall can better define your space and provide extra seating for larger events.  A concrete or stone dining table or pillar is akin to the table or island in your kitchen around which everyone gathers.  Larger scale pottery can define space, become a focal point and provide a burstof color from plants and the pots themselves.

Fire
Fire will add ambiance and warmth to any outdoor space.  Depending on the size and style of your outdoor space, consider adding one of the following options: Fire pits – are great for relaxed and casual spaces. Fireplaces bring it up to the next level. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, and can become the focal anchor for an outdoor living room.  Fire tables are a multi-functional and moveable piece of furniture great for people who would like to use gas or propane rather than wood. Gel fire pots are perfect for people with more intimate, cozy spaces and can provide a similar feel as the above fire options.

Flow
Water features can encompass anything from a bubbling fountain, a waterfall, a pond, or all three. The soothing sound of moving water is relaxing and can also mask unwanted noises from roadways, utilities, etc. Water features can also make a space feel cooler in hot weather. If the feature is large enough you will be cooler because of the evaporating water; if it is smaller the effect is more in the mind, but is still effective on a hot day.  Water features are also great for wildlife. It can become a birdbath, a source of drinking water, or a home for fish and water plants.

If you have any quesitons please feel free to give us a call at 651.450.1501.