When the sunlight starts to last a little longer each day and the world turns green again, we can't help but want to spend more time breathing fresh air outside. But if your yard isn't living up to your expectations for relaxation or backyard barbecues, maybe it's time to think creatively about ways to improve and extend your outdoor living space. 

Whether your plans include being the best party host on the block or creating a private oasis, here are a couple of ideas to inspire you.

Create an Outdoor Living Room

If you want to take the viewing party outside for the big game, the newest streaming film, or your favorite weekly TV obsession, invite the neighbors to your new outdoor entertainment room. 

• An easy way to begin the design for this type of space is to start with an existing patio or just a plain exterior wall and extend the space from there. You'll want an empty wall to safely hang your screen, and any time you bring electronics outside – like a television or video projector – you'll need a protective ceiling. Our Sunspace Patio Covers work beautifully to protect your things while still letting sunlight shine through.
• For added privacy or a needed windbreak, add one or two sun walls. Like our patio covers, Sunspace Sunwalls let daylight in while adding another layer of protection from the elements and potentially prying eyes.
• If you're not starting with an existing patio or deck, you'll want to plan a foundation for your new outdoor living room. We offer AlumaDeck decking systems that are easily installed, durable, and look great.
• Once you've developed the structure of your new viewing space, it's time to decorate it. This is where you can really get creative. To make it truly feel like an outdoor living room, include a sofa and coffee table with side chairs for additional seating. For a cozier feel, include a stylish outdoor rug – maybe even in your favorite team's colors. Throw in some fun pillows in a variety of sizes, and for easier entertaining, add a buffet table or outdoor bar for serving drinks and snacks. Whatever way you decide to decorate, keep it fun and friendly!

Design an Optimal Oasis

Maybe a quiet spot in the yard, away from the needs of the household is what you're dreaming of. Whether you have a nice place overlooking a lake, deep in the mountains, or near the ocean – or maybe just a sweet spot in the suburbs – you can create the perfect place to relax in nature without a lot of fuss. 

• Start with a cozy nook. Our Sunlounge Portable Decks and Patios offer a stable foundation with privacy walls and include the added bonus of being movable, so if you're the type who enjoys changing things up, the Sunlounge is the perfect way to create a space that isn't permanently fixed to one spot.
• Add comfortable seating. Whether it's an Adirondack lounge chair or a cute little bistro dining set – or both – you'll want to start with seating that will make you want to stay awhile.
• Green it up! Extend the beauty of the outdoors by adding container plants with your favorite flowers, ferns, ornamental grasses, or vegetables and herbs. The options are endless! The walls will help protect the plants from the wind while still allowing light through when the sun gets low in the sky. 
• Consider your colors. As you're planning this space, think about the vibe you want. For a relaxing outdoor living space, soft greens, blues, and lavenders will have a nice calming effect. If you want something a little livelier, go for bright yellows, oranges, and reds. To keep the area simple and modern, monochromatic hues – like black and white or navy and white – would be the way to go. Or let your eclectic style shine through and mix it up! This oasis is all about you, so make it yours!

These are just two ways to extend your outdoor living space and make your home more like the place you dreamed it could be. For a free quote on any of our Sunspace products, contact us today!