How to maximize your outdoor living space in style

Living in a Canadian climate can make it hard to enjoy your outdoor space all year round. We completely understand the need to enjoy the few months of warmth as much as possible! From outdoor furniture to ambiance, Interior Designer Jane Lockhart shared her favourite ways to maximize the outdoors in style. 

LANDSCAPE

If you're out of inspiration for designing your outdoor space, it's worth hiring a professional that can lay a good foundation for your space. Whether you go with a landscaper or a consult with a garden center, having beautiful plants throughout your outdoor space is a must. 

ZONES

Having different zones in your outdoor space will help create an enjoyable atmosphere, especially if you love hosting! Designate areas for seating, eating, lounging and conversations. Try and create a plan that's logical while considering scenarios. For example, if you have a BBQ you probably don't want all the smoke blowing towards the seating area. 

A few unique ways to add convenience and character to your backyard can include adding an authentic pizza oven, having an outdoor sound system and getting a fire pit. Any of these elements will have your guests wow-ing for weeks! When it comes to ambiance, add lighting wherever possible. You can use anything from lanterns to battery candles to create a beautiful atmosphere in your outdoor space. 

STAINS & COLOURS

Having neutral coloured structures and furniture means that you can add in pops of colour with pillows, accessories, plants and decor. If you aren't wild about your fence colour, opt for a solid stain to give it more a wall look. Not only can this help brighten up your space even more, but you can also make it look like a continuation of your house exterior.