How to make the most of your outdoor spaces

Summer is in full swing, so it's no wonder people want to spend more time outside and are looking at ways to make their outdoor living areas more appealing.

Creating or revamping outdoor rooms is a popular trend at the moment, says the head of home furnishings and retail design at Ikea Canada, Kathy Davey. This includes freshening-up gardens and backyards, investing in outdoor cooking areas and adding patterned flooring.

People create these outdoor areas as places they can escape to, says Davey.

An interest in gardening is an ongoing trend, ranging from substantial home gardens to simple planter boxes on the balcony.

“This is something that really `bloomed' during the pandemic, and it looks like people are sticking with it,” she says.

Those living in apartments look for stylish patio seating, atmospheric lighting, and green walls made from living plants. There is also considerable interest in sustainability, as seen in the fabrics selected for outdoor cushion covers and accessories, says Davey.

She says that people are thinking very practically about these spaces. Choosing maintenance-free furniture that doesn't have a lot of fabric is durable and resistant to stains and rainy weather.

Hardwood furniture is trending for outdoor spaces and stackable furniture (chairs, side tables and the like), which are perfect for compact living.

“People are also converting their outdoor spaces into mini workspaces, so comfort and low maintenance go hand in hand there,” she says.

If you want to breathe new life into an outdoor space, Davey recommends draping textiles over outdoor furniture for an airy, elegant feeling.

She credits the pandemic for inspiring more people to get outdoors.

“For a lot of pandemic babies, this summer is their first outdoor experience, and parents are making the most of it,” she says.

Sometimes it's hard when it's hot and sunny to think about the materials you're choosing, but it's definitely prudent to do so, she says. As outdoor spaces are ultimately weather dependent, choosing high-quality and durable materials is key to maximizing how much use and what kind of longevity you'll get from your outdoor furniture and furnishings, she says.

Comfortable seating is another key consideration, and Davey recommends function over beauty.

“Keep it minimal if you're in a small space; you want to be able to use every corner of your space no matter how small, so think twice before bringing home giant chairs and tables,” she says.

When it comes to your green spaces, keep them tidy, whether it's a planter on the balcony or backyard garden, she says. “Let your outdoor space be a part of nature.”

If you're planning your outdoor living spaces, it's a good idea to create defined and structured seating, playing, cooking and entertaining areas, says Davey. Another recommendation is comfortable lighting, such as table lamps or bulbs around trees or balconies, to add “warmth without the heat.”

Adding a few lights and plants can bring life to an area all year round, says Davey.