Summertime in the Southeast calls for relaxation, a good book and a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade. But as temperatures rise, you may find that your time spent indoors increases accordingly. If you’re looking for ways to spend more of your time outside this summer, consider creating an outdoor living space.
Get Shady
Depending on the location of your home and how much vegetation is growing around it, your yard may have a good amount of shade at certain points in the day. If you have little natural shade or simply want to utilize your space at any time of day, however, invest in some type of shelter.
Options for shade can be as simple as adding an umbrella over your patio furniture or as complex as building a standalone structure with open walls and a sturdy roof. Manufacturers also offer retractable awnings that can be attached to the exterior walls of your home, as well as pre-made gazebos and canopies in a wide range of sizes, styles and prices.
Say Goodbye to Mosquitos
It isn’t summer in the South until you’ve swatted your first mosquito—but that doesn’t mean you have to tolerate these tiny antagonists. If you’re planning to build a standalone structure, hang mosquito netting around the sides. The sheer material will not only keep bugs away but may also add a whimsical feel to your sitting area. Decorative drapery tiebacks can be used when you wish to hold the netting open.
In addition, pick up a few pots of lemongrass, catnip and marigolds at your local nursery. These plants are known to repel mosquitos naturally.
Find Great Furniture
No matter how much effort you put into making your outdoor space livable, you’ll likely always choose to relax indoors if you don’t invest in comfortable outdoor furniture. Whether you’d prefer a hammock, a chaise with comfy cushions or a big outdoor sectional, be sure to test out furniture before you buy it or read customer reviews if you’re ordering online. A pleasing aesthetic does not always denote comfort.
Create a Kitchen
You don’t need an extravagant outdoor kitchen with a range and a brick oven to bring friends and family outdoors for a meal. Simply purchasing a grill will do the trick. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing quite like the smell of burgers on the grill to draw everyone into one centralized location.
Decorate
Just as you would decorate indoors, bring design elements to your outdoor space. Weather-resistant throw pillows, outdoor rugs, decorative chair cushions, lanterns and other items can help add a bit of personal flair.
Securing a home improvement loan is quick and easy with Advantage Financial.
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