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***image1***This spring, you don’t have to travel far to find that relaxing oasis you have been craving after the long winter couped up in doors – you can find it in your own backyard.
Though thinking up a way to decorate that empty concrete slab you call a patio can be intimidating, all it takes is a little creativity, a vast amount of initiative and a bit of help.
***image2***There are inumerable opportunities for your outdoor living space, such as arranging it to be the social centrum when entertaining friends, turning it into an ethnic or tropical getaway or simply jazzing it up on a budget.
After agreeing on a budget, the most important part of designing your patio is deciding what furniture you want to use. While white, plastic furniture may be durable, safe and easy to clean, it may not be proper for every design theme. And similarly, when shopping on a budget, a large, teak dining table may not be the most cost-effective route.
***image3***Whichever avenue you choose, a little creativity and a lot of ambition can go a long way in helping you turn your boring patio into a blissful retreat.
Here are a few design ideas to consider this season while designing your outside haven:
Outdoor dining
Why dine indoors on warm spring and summer days when you can treat yourself and your guests to a meal outside?
***image5***When decorating your patio, treat it just as you would your indoor dining room – find the right size table and chairs to fit the space you have and don’t be afraid to embellish your table with extras such as vases, vibrant-colored table linens and candles.
The chairs can also be jazzed up with throw cushions that can be bought in all different colors and fabrics. And who says you can’t use a rug outdoors under your new dining table?
An ethnic patio
This spring, you don’t have to travel to Tahiti or the Bahamas to find that feeling of escape and total relaxation. You can turn your outdoor space into a real-life oasis.
To accomplish this, the more fabrics and vibrant colors you use, the better. One such material that conveys a tropical feel is wicker, which can now be purchased in more electrifying colors than the traditional white or brown.
***image6***Match wicker furniture with bright-colored or jeweled throw cushions, flowers or candles and top it off with a white mosquito net and you will have a beautiful place to sit back and relax.
Designing on a budget
Don’t be intimidated if the design ideas you have on paper may not be cooperating with the size of your wallet. Even on a budget, your patio can still evoke a relaxing feeling.
Before deciding on a certain item, make sure to shop around to ensure you get the most, and best, for your money. Also remember that while certain materials may be cheaper, they are not always good quality and you could end up paying more in the end.
But when it comes down to designing, colors are your best friend. Throw cushions or chair covers are a great way to make that plain and boring-looking chair more comfortable and inviting.
Playing with different lighting options is also a cheap way to fancy up your patio. Hang white lights around the patio or place tiki torches around your yard to extend the outdoor fun throughout the day and into the evening.
Personal touches are the key to a relaxing patio environment.
