Before choosing any decor, get a clear picture of the amount of space available. Clutter and poor design choices can make a stunning space less functional, requiring more remodeling down the road.
The smaller the space, the more important it is to measure the area and draft a basic blueprint. Otherwise, you could end up having to find an alternative to newly purchased furniture or deal with cramped spaces.
Consider how you plan to use the space. Will there be a pool or jacuzzi? A garden with walkways? A dining area? Large lounge chairs? As you're measuring, factor in the amount of space needed to sit, stretch out, and walk around comfortably so that you can leave enough clearance around furniture and other objects.
If you don't already have groundwork in place, decide what type of platform offers the most flexibility. While you can set up an outdoor retreat right on the lawn, having grass as a base won't always be practical in rainy weather conditions or near in-ground pools.
Depending on your needs and outdoor layout, options like a wooden deck, cement terrace, or flagstone paths can provide stable, low-maintenance surfaces for seating. Patio paver installations are popular because they create a clean, uniform finish and come in a variety of materials, such as concrete, marble, and brick. Pavers can serve as retaining walls or be installed around garden plots, making them a versatile option in multifunctional outdoor spaces.
Constant cleaning and upkeep will make your dream retreat feel more like a burden. Save time and effort by choosing stylish and durable furniture made from weather-resistant materials. Any cushioned seating should be made from waterproof fabrics that dry quickly and stand up to damp weather.
Also, take your recreational needs into account. How often do you host people in your outdoor space, and how much seating is necessary to accommodate them? Get the most versatility out of the space by choosing a combination of chairs, sofas, benches, and ottomans. Many benches and ottomans double as storage space or extra tables, allowing you to adapt to different group sizes.
Keep comfort top of mind, and think about ways to improve the tranquility of the space. Install overhead coverage to shelter the area from harsh sunlight, rain, and any other weather conditions. Pergolas, canopies, awnings, or even large umbrellas are all options for adding shade, and they're each available at various cost points to fit any budget.
Great lighting can make your dream retreat look inviting and romantic after sunset, allowing you to easily entertain guests or grill into the late evening hours. Use string lighting on pergolas, gazebos, and canopies to create a relaxing mood.
Install outdoor light fixtures in the ground, along pathways, and on exterior walls of your house to keep the area well-lit and easy to navigate at night. Firepits are an attractive option for natural lighting, or you can add a tabletop fireplace to your dining area for a soothing ambiance.
Bring a slice of the resort life to your dream retreat. Invest in outdoor drinkware, serveware, and patio decor that will make you feel like you're transported to a private club whenever you step outside. By having serveware designated for outdoor relaxation and entertaining, the time you spend in your retreat space will stand out as special and separate from everyday life.
Incorporate small touches that have a big impact on your overall experience, such as shading your loungers with umbrellas or dressing up your seating with waterproof throw pillows in decorative patterns. If you're a grill master or drink enthusiast, go a step further and set up an outdoor kitchen or mini bar.