It is opening season for outside lounging, patio partying and dinners alfresco. Therefore all we can think about is updating our outdoor spaces. Inspired by those designs that blur the lines between indoors and out, we’re rounding up the most stunning patios, yards, and the like. Have a look at spaces made for enjoying the sunshine and the key to why we love them. Plus, keep scrolling for a few great pieces to help craft your own summer oasis.

design and photography: House Doctor

 

design and photography: House Doctor

 

Natural Textures

We seem to have a theme running throughout every single outdoor pin, WOVEN things. Not only are they a major trend indoors, but outside as well. The texture and laid back style of these natural pieces make them perfect for an open-air setting. Benches, chairs, stools, and baskets… we’ll take all of the above.

 

via Jenni Kayne | Home of: Emma Grede | Photography: Melissa Gidney

via | Photography: Molten Holtum

 

Potted Greens and Things

Even if your space is limited, adding a variety of potted plants and flowers can create the look and feel of a garden. It adds visual color and texture to tabletops, patios and even mini terraces. Plus, potted plants can create a designated barrier between different outdoor spaces like your eating area and your lounge spot.

 

Interior Design: Camille Styles | Photography: Molly Culver

 

Cozy It Up

Layering in rugs, pillows and blankets really cozies up a space and creates the most inviting outdoor experience. It brings those indoor comforts out and is the perfect way to add color and personality. If you have a good neutral base, it is so easy to swap out smaller pillows and textiles depending on the look you want to achieve.

 

via Jenni Kayne | Home of: Emma Grede | Photography: Melissa Gidney

 

Let there be light (or fire)

Outdoor spaces need great lighting too. Whether you opt for cafe lights strung over a patio, a firepit that acts as a gathering spot for s’ mores, or something as simple as candle lanterns, don’t forget to consider additional lighting for nighttime ambiance.

 

photography by Hannah Blackmore

 

Curated Spots for Lounging, Entertaining, etc.

How are you going to use your space? By really thinking about how you typically spend time in your outdoor area, you can outfit it in ways that will truly be utilized. Think an eating area, a spot for gathering and chatting or a lounge for reading alfresco (my favorite).

 

via: Homes to Love | Photography: Maree Homer

 

 

Favorite Pieces from the World Market Outdoor Sale

 

 

Consider this a PSA, World Market is having a 20% off all things outdoor sale and it ends Monday. We’ve gathered our most favorite pieces perfect for everything from a patio refresh to a full-on outfitting of your backyard. Whether you are a classic Adirondack chair and navy stripes kind of person or are all about that laid-back, bohemian vibe, there is a little something for everyone. This bench alone (ok and maybe this chair and this outdoor rug) is enough to send us into daydreams of a whole patio redo. Now excuse us while we go fill our carts.

 

 

For more design inspiration plus some amazing creative business strategy sprinkled in, be sure to check out these posts:

• Inspiration for a Small Patio
• Blonde Wood + How to Use It Everywhere
• The Color Trends We’re Obsessed With
• How to Run a Creative Business
• Why a Blog is Still Key to Your Design Business
• The New Look of Open Shelving
• Designers’ Guide to Paint Colors

 

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Erin Lepperd is an interior designer – turned digital media editor with a penchant for breathtaking interiors. When she’s not gabbing about design, you’ll find her wrangling her wild and wonderful 5-year-old twins, brunching like it’s her job and exploring the wilds of New England as a California transplant.