Article by:
Tracy Garcia
Now that spring is finally on the way, I'm thinking about my backyard and my front porch, which are in dire need of a refresh.
When it comes to designing outdoor spaces, interior designer Lisa Holt sees many people making the same basic mistakes. Whether it’s a rooftop patio, deck, or backyard, she explains how to avoid common missteps and create the perfect outdoor oasis.
I found her advice really helpful. Here's the video and the main points summarized below:
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One of the most frequent mistakes Lisa sees is neglecting proper lighting. While it’s easy to plan during the day, it’s essential to think about how your space will feel after dark. Simply relying on the building's exterior lights won’t provide the atmosphere you want. Instead, create your own lighting story that brings out the magic of the space.
For spaces like balconies or trellises, consider suspending outdoor-specific pendants or using string lights with large bulbs for a romantic, soft glow. Even small spaces can be transformed by adding a few well-placed string lights. For those without power sources, Lisa recommends LED rechargeable string lights, such as the Fat Boy style, which are perfect for wrapping around tree branches or hanging from a trellis.
Image credit: Amazon
Image credit: Amazon
Another mistake people make is not thinking of their outdoor space as an extension of their indoor living area. If you can see your patio or deck from inside your home, it needs to complement the interior design.
Lisa emphasizes that the flooring of your outdoor space should blend seamlessly with your indoor style. Whether you’re using decking or pavers, it should mirror or complement the aesthetic of your home’s interior. Additionally, consider the exterior color of your house. If you have a farmhouse-style interior but a dark, smoky exterior, think about how to create a cohesive look between the two spaces.
Image credit: Amazon
Privacy is often overlooked, but it’s crucial to creating a comfortable outdoor space. If you have a balcony, deck, or patio, you may be dealing with nosy neighbors or a lack of seclusion. Lisa recommends incorporating privacy elements like trellises, climbing plants, or tall bushes to block views and create a more intimate setting.
For ground-floor spaces, consider using solid fencing combined with evergreen shrubs or bamboo for both privacy and sound absorption. If you're in a more compact space where people can see down on you, consider adding a ceiling cover or a green wall to provide additional seclusion.
Image credit: Amazon
Image credit: Amazon
To truly elevate your outdoor space, Lisa swears by three key elements to enhance ambiance: sound, flame, and fragrance.
Image credit: Amazon
Image credit: Amazon
By avoiding these four common outdoor design mistakes, you can create a beautiful, functional space that feels just as inviting as your indoors. Whether it’s adding the perfect lighting, creating privacy, or enhancing the ambiance with sound and scent, these tips will take your outdoor areas to the next level...Read more
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