Beach homes are often about an indoor/outdoor life style. A great deck or screen porch can often expand the homes living space without the cost of a big addition. Having an outdoor living space will allow you to enjoy your beautiful landscape and water views with family and friends.
Your outside deck should create separate living areas, the same as you would have indoors. For example, a synthetic wicker dining set next to your grilling station would be your kitchen. Across from the eating area, everyone can move to a comfortable sectional for great conversation and drinks after a quick nap, a quiet reading spot or a little sun as needed. Defining each space with a special indoor/outdoor rug helps to create the different areas. Make sure all your fabrics coordinate with each living space just as you would inside your home. I often like to pull some of the colors I used on the inside décor to the outside deck design.
Porches and screened living areas are great for shade. Wired for ceiling fans and lights, they’ll become a place to congregate with friends or family at all hours of the day. Have fun with your space. Paint the porch floor a coastal color. Use bright Sunbrella fabrics for a pop of color on your porch.
Sunbrella fabrics won’t fade so you will have that pop of color for years! Don’t worry about arranging colors. For easy mixing, stay in the same value range by choosing colors of similar brightness. Use the manufacturer’s color strip and have fun!
Remember, part of the reason you moved to the beach was to enjoy the outside. Decorate your outdoor space just as you would the inside of your home. Be adventurous, add value and always be ready to entertain with an exterior living area that represents you and your beach lifestyle.
Stacy Orem, Design Consultant
Creative Concepts