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Beautiful Outdoor Living
Your yard is an extension of your interior, and it needs to support your lifestyle if you want to make the most of it and enjoy your space to the fullest. Create an outdoor area that echoes the comfort of your own living room.
Do you want a tranquil retreat? An elegant entertainment area? A classically formal space? Get clear on your goals, and designing your outdoor space will be easier.
If you like to use your yard to escape and relax, keep your colors neutral. Colors that suggest nature - ocean, forest, mountains - will soothe and relax you. Choose soft shapes for your furniture.
Do you love to entertain? Make sure you
 have plenty of comfortable chairs and lots of areas to serve. Position seating in L- or U-shapes to promote comfortable conversations. Use umbrellas to create shady areas. For a formal space, arrange your furniture in a symmetrical pattern. Use classic shapes. Keep bright colors confined to pillows and accessories so they can be easily updated as your tastes change. Good lighting is crucial in every outdoor space. For safety, be sure to illuminate driveways, paths, stairs, pool areas, and dark corners. You can add visual interest by highlighting outdoor structures. Attach string or net lights to trees, bushes, trellises, sheds, and arbors. Float candles in birdbaths, pools, or ponds. To add more comfort, decorate with accessories that are traditionally reserved for indoors. Look for mirrors, frames, rugs, and fabrics that are water-resistant and created for use outdoors. Back to top | 
