Fresh air, open spaces, and cooking on the grill are just a few of the bonuses associated with having an outdoor space which is becoming more and more popular with homeowners. Our homes are our refuge but an outdoor space is the perfect solution to curing cabin fever without having to pack up the car to drive somewhere. With spring just around the corner we thought it would be a good time to highlight the reasons why an outdoor space matters, what elements ought to be included and how to bring it all together to give you and your family the perfect outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. 

Why outdoor spaces matter

A functional home is key to keeping everyone on schedule and smoothly operating from day to day but as more and more are working from home there needs to be a place where we can really let our hair down and just relax. Spending time outdoors is an important aspect to this break from the routine especially for those whose job may involve a heavy amount of screen time. Stepping away from electronic devices is essential and the color green is often associated with good things that can help the mind relax, making an outdoor area which tends to have an excess of green, on the lawn or in potted plants, a great place to spend a few minutes each day. Regular time outdoors can also be helpful in improving both mental and physical health as we breathe in the fresh air and let that soft breeze carry away the stress from work. Not everyone has the ability to walk in their neighborhood or drive to a beautiful city park which is why having your own outdoor space matters because it brings the best of nature to you and your family. You have the freedom to step outside whenever needed and recharge your battery before tackling the next item on your to-do list or meet that next deadline. An outdoor space is your own private getaway whenever you need it and only a few steps away.

Adding Stoll industries to your design

An outdoor space serves a wide variety of purposes including kitchen, patio, screened in porch, and more. Creating a multi-purpose space means adding special features that can bring function with style. Stoll Industries, a metal-working company located in Abbeville, South Carolina, is a great resource to consider when designing an outdoor space for your family. Their products include fireplace doors and surrounds, cabinet doors and drawers, countertops, wall systems, floating shelves, fire pit tables, BBQ grill carts, and even storage compartments. In general, metal is a great material choice for outdoor spaces since it provides protection against the elements plus it can add stunning visual interest to the area. It is a versatile material that blends with multiple styles and can integrate almost seamlessly into any design. If you want to have a partly closed-in porch, think about adding a metal wall system as it brings a contemporary feel to your outdoor area. Metal accents are also easy to clean and don’t have major issues when it rains nor are they likely to fade from sunlight like other materials can over time. The variety of finishes provided by Stoll Industries ensures that they have something for everyone. See their full selection here and talk to your designer about incorporating some metal into your outdoor space.

Adding Graber to your design

While not the first thing you may think of when designing an outdoor space, window treatments have a lot to offer. Not only do they look amazing but they provide protection from the sun’s rays and can give a new dimension to the entire project. Graber Blinds is a company dedicated to quality as well as safety plus they are always looking for new technology and methods that can improve their products so that it better serves their customers needs. They offer a large selection of products including cellular shades as well as motorized options, perfect for those quiet afternoons when you need to adjust the shade as the sun shifts. Graber Blinds have also designed exterior solar shades that can not only block unwelcome sunlight such as the low winter sun, but lessen the heat it brings which means a cooler experience for everyone. Another bonus to their shades is their ability to reduce the wind and even dust that can be stirred up yet still allow light and air into your outdoor space ensuring that everyone stays comfortable. Graber Blinds also has them in several colors meaning you can equip your outdoor space in a “shade” you love. Having an area for your family to enjoy the outdoors but with safety and comfort prioritized is exactly what Graber Blinds will deliver every time. Be sure to talk to your designer about them as an option or visit their website to see the full collection.

Designing an outdoor space

Wanting to have an outdoor space is one thing but bringing it all together is another matter entirely though don’t get overwhelmed. Pinterest and Houzz are excellent sources of inspiration plus hiring a designer can immediately take the pressure off and leave you excited for your new space. If you are wondering about some of the elements you should include in your design, here is our list of recommendations:

• Lighting
• Comfortable seating
• Food area items
• Storage
• Privacy features

Seating and lighting work together to provide you the perfect place to gather with family and friends and just enjoy a lazy afternoon or a quiet evening. Of course no place is complete without food so having something like a fire pit for smores or a kitchen always means you are ready to host the best party. Storage for extras like blankets, pillows and even games is another great feature for your outdoor space plus it helps keep the area clean and presentable. Privacy is something that needs to be considered for an outdoor space especially when you are in a more confined neighborhood. Shades, good landscaping choices, and even fences are good options for this. Combining these things together into a beautiful and functional design ensures that everyone will have a good time. 

Are you ready to go outside?

There are several benefits to having your own personal oasis such as yours and your family’s wellness as well as a help to your energy bill since cooking outside means less cooling needed inside not to mention those smells remain outside. Adding an outdoor space can also be seen as an investment in your home should you decide to sell it down the road. With so many working from home and not always having the ability to access all the recreation that a city may offer, having the option to just step outside for a breather or full dinner is a great option for everyone. This feature can also work with various square footage and only needs to include the things you will value most. Talk to your designer about creating a one-of-a-kind outdoor space for you and your family.