It's been slow to warm up this spring, but soon blue skies and glorious warmth will be luring you outside - to entertain, dine or simply relax. Transforming your porch or patio into a chic and cozy "room" is much easier than you think when you use the right fabrics, furnishings and accessories. Here are several easy tips to help you create an outdoor space that reflects your spectacular style and taste!

1. Color Scheme: To make your outdoor area an extension of your home, use a similar color scheme as your interior, but in brighter, more vibrant shades. Be sure to also take into consideration the exterior color of your home.
2. Furniture Selection: Determine the purpose of your space; this will help you decide what pieces to buy. You'll need a dining table and chairs if you enjoy having friends over for an old-fashioned Maryland crab feast. If your primary focus is relaxing by the pool, you'll want to invest in comfortable chaise lounges with cushion fabrics that will withstand pool water and the elements. Once you choose your furniture, arrange it to create a comfortable dining or conversation area with a view. Consider adding a personal oasis; a hammock or chaise in a quiet corner of the yard.
3. Outdoor Fabrics: Outdoor fabrics come in a rainbow of colors, patterns and textures, making it easy to add color and comfort to your outdoor space. These specialty fabrics are optimized for mildew resistance, water repellence, fade resistance and easy cleaning. Sunbrella makes an excellent solution-dyed acrylic fabric for cushions and pillows, which, when combined with Drain Dry foam that allows rain to drain through - rather than soak into - the cushion, will last for years.
4. Lighting: Nothing creates a mood like subtle lighting for the nighttime hours. Christmas lights or outdoor lamps are designed to withstand the elements, and come in a wide variety of eye-catching styles. If you have no outdoor outlets, try solar lamps, candles, lanterns or oil-torch lamps to create a soft and cozy atmosphere.
5. Accessories: Think of these as the "jewelry" of any room. Keeping in mind your color scheme, choose a market umbrella to shade your dining area. Then have fun picking out coordinating placemats, candles and acrylic dinnerware. Outdoor area rugs have been perfected so they resist fading and mildew. You can customize your color, and even get them monogrammed for a personal touch. A potting bench or shelf can work double-duty as a sideboard from which to serve libations and appetizers. Lastly, don't forget the small things that make a huge impact, such as plants, topiaries, wind chimes, garden ornaments and soothing fountains.

Your porch and patio are an extension of your home. "Turn your inside out," and enjoy your new home-extension that used to be called your back yard!