I recently worked with a busy mother of three who suffers from the need for more living space. For years, her charming screened-in porch has functioned as a catch-all for sports equipment, extra furniture and shoes. She has longed to transform that space into an extra room for entertaining, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors with her family.
Many of us in Verona suffer from the same dilemma: not enough living space. During the warmer weather months, a patio or a screened-in porch can be turned into an outdoor living room for your entire family to enjoy.
The primary goal for this family was to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space on a budget. We first determined which pieces of her existing furniture worked in the space and which did not. Then, we disposed, donated, or sold anything that wasn’t contributing to the space. The sports equipment and shoes found a new home in the garage or basement. We kept the wicker sofa, which was in good condition, an old side table and a coffee table that had been picked up at a garage sale. All of these items were still useful and helped us stick to the budget, under $400.
Today, there are more indoor/outdoor, water-resistant furniture pieces and accessories available than ever before and many online retailers have a huge selection at a great price. I turned to these discount suppliers to help me create a fresh, modern and bright room for less. We found a perfect indoor outdoor rug and pillows at Overstock.com (free shipping); Target supplied outdoor bright lanterns and more throw pillows (on sale). Hayneedle.com supplied wonderful poufs that not only enhance the décor with their great pattern, but are also practical. These 24 x 24 poufs give the porch additional flexible seating and can be brought indoors in cold weather. I chose a pattern that worked with both the new space and her interior space.
Finally, accessories give polish and a finishing touch to the outdoor living room. The throw pillows add color, pattern and texture to the space. The rug is the anchor for the furniture arrangement and also adds character and color. We added table lanterns, hanging lanterns and pedestals with candles on the wall adding warmth and ambient light. A recycled table lamp from the basement allows for reading and enjoying the space after dark. The new look utilizes stylish furniture and accessories that are on trend, and also work with her current interior décor.
An outdoor room can be designed on a budget. It can be created on a porch, a patio, a deck, or on your grass. A great indoor/outdoor rug defines the space around which to group your furniture. Adding colorful accessories will give the space warmth and character. The middle of summer is a great time to shop for the items mentioned above, as many retailers are offering them at up to 60% off. Check Overstock.com, Target online, Hayneedle.com and Home Goods. We still have a few months to enjoy our outdoor spaces and making the most of outdoor space is a worthwhile quality-of-life investment.
This looks fantastic! Definitely some great ideas to consider for our screened in porch. You have a talent for making the most out of any room or living space.