Outdoor Flooring

Flooring for outdoor living spaces include wooden decks, stones, cement patios, outdoor carpet, tile flooring, and wood flooring that snaps together and lays on flat surfaces to mimic hardwood floors found inside homes. The “inside flooring” look is especially attractive when put together with furniture and accessories that compliment or draw attention to the floor. Outdoor area rugs made of bamboo or all-weather fabrics add style and flow to outdoor living rooms, kitchens, and recreation areas. If you are happy with the floor on your patio or deck and are simply looking for ways to update with a few accessories, start with one or two area rugs. Place round rugs under round patio tables, rectangular or oval rugs in front of lounge chairs or couches, or use one large outdoor area rug as a base for a dining or living room set.

Lighting

When you consider lighting for your outdoor paradise, consider the function of your space. The occasional picnic or barbecue calls for the natural light of the sun, but if you wish to entertain at night, explore standing floor lamps, hanging lights, wall sconces and table lamps. For a more natural appeal, use torches, candles, and lanterns.

Sun Protections

Trees are natural protection from the sun, but if you do not have many tall trees in your yard or need to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements, you can create shade from the hot sun with a quality awning or solid overhang over your patio, or build your own pavilion a few steps away from your home. A protective roof is particularly important for fabrics and materials that fade in the sun or remain wet for a long period after it rains.

Extend the indoor to the outdoor

The popularity of outdoor living spaces has created a demand for all-weather furniture and appliances and the result is a wider selection from which to choose. Extend your home’s interior décor to the outside, or create a clear distinction between your indoor and outdoor world with durable, attractive pieces that work with your flooring, lighting, shade and functional needs. For example, wood floors work with rustic, modern, or any other “indoor look”, while tile or cement works well with either indoor or traditional backyard patio décor.

Large Conversation Zone

One of the most important zones or areas on the patio is the large group conversation area.  It usually consists of two or more multi-seat pieces of furniture.  On a patio, that could mean a pair of two-person gliders or love seats facing one another.  A comfortable chair at either end of the love seats would also be a great addition.  Include a small, narrow table in the center, or a footrest that doubles as extra seating.  The goal is to create a space where multiple people can gather, share conversation and enjoy the company of a large group.  Depending on your entertaining style, this might be the largest zone on your patio.

Small Conversation Zone

A small conversation zone is similar to its larger counterpart, but is designed for more intimate conversations between two people.  Two recliners placed next to one another, or two comfortable sling back chairs arranged at a ninety degree angle are ideal for such a space.  A small table for holding drinks and small plates is necessity.  Also consider placing a large plant or potted palm near the area to separate it from the rest of the space.  You can also use unique outdoor wall decorations for this area to create a truly special feel.

Eating Zone

If you are a big fan of outdoor cooking, and picnics and parties play a large part in your life, the eating zone on your patio is going to be the most prominent part of the decor.  As tempting as it may be to invest in the largest table you can find, consider the available space on the patio.  It is more important that the table fits the space properly rather than having an excessively large table that makes the space crowded and uncomfortable.  Other areas of the patio space can accommodate the guests that will not fit at the table.  In addition to the table, an umbrella and comfortable chairs are ideal.  The umbrella may seem unnecessary if the patio is covered, but it can be used for decorations and outdoor lighting.

After creating the zones and arranging the patio furniture accordingly, take into consideration the decor.  Some choose to have fun, whimsical decor that might include pieces like butterflies metal wall art, while others prefer more contemporary designs.  The style of decor that you select should also be reflected in the lines and fabrics of the furniture.  Coordinating the accessories with the furniture will ensure that the patio has a professional decorating feel.  Selecting the right pieces for your patio is the key to creating the space you desire

I found this on the Contemporist website in furniture. I love concrete as a material for furniture, actually I’ve wanted to start a business with this, but that remained at the stage of concept and sketches. Anyway, this collection is awesome, and if you love modernism, than this has the perfect lines for you. I know, the house in the background is brilliant, and yes, I will give you details about it after the pictures, aight?

The house you see in the back is The Annie Residence by Bercy Chen Studio and it’s located … guess where? Yeah, Austin, Texas. You can see it on the official site here.