With the last traces of winter behind us, our houses have begun to emerge from hibernation. And if you’re like many, your home’s outdoor appearance could use a boost.
Poor curb appeal is akin to an ugly overcoat. It doesn’t matter what you’re wearing underneath; people have already started questioning your taste. The front porch, deck, patio and walkways, are an extension of your home and should be given as much decorating consideration as the inside rooms and spaces.
Luckily, there has never been an easier time to achieve cohesion between your indoor and outdoor environments. Home furnishing retailers and manufacturers have taken the hint, designing attractive and affordable furnishing that withstand the elements; impervious to moisture, mold and fading. Boost curb appeal and bring the indoors outside with these six furnishings:
Area rugs
Made from weather-resistant fibers and available in a variety of colors and patterns, outdoor area rugs are a great way to anchor the décor of your outside space. Rugs are also perfect for hiding imperfections or wear in outdoor flooring, such as stained concrete or a deck that’s finish is faded or worn away.
Window treatments
Not just for indoor spaces, outdoor window treatments are a great way to increase privacy and combat glare in your outside space. Enclose your front porch by mounting Roman shades between support poles or keep double French doors open by installing designer screen shades on the outside of the house. These stay-in-place outdoor window coverings travel along a sturdy track and feature a weighted bottom, ensuring they don’t move in the wind.
It’s also worth mentioning the impact inside window treatments have on your home’s outdoor appearance. Drapery and shades should have the same color backing, giving your windows a uniform appearance from the street. Brands such as Hunter Douglas, take the back of their window treatments very seriously, making sure to hide operating cords and details like ruching, from view outside.
Pillows
Decorative throw pillows are a great way to add comfort to your outdoor seating and come in a variety of colorful weather-resistant fabrics that won’t mold or mildew after a rainstorm. Create a funky lounge space using large upholstered bean bags and pillows or add sophistication to an outdoor couch by mixing pillows in complementary prints and patterns.
Accessories
Punch up your design impact outdoors by adding weather-resistant decorative accessories like twinkle lights, fire pits, planters and art. Although these design elements are a great way to add whimsy outdoors, keep the number of objects to a minimum, especially lawn ornaments, sculptures and kitschy signs.
Plants and foliage
Most homeowners only update their greenery at the beginning of summer, however it is possible to swap your foliage with the season. Depending on where you live, this could mean gorgeous annuals in the spring and summer; mums, pumpkins and dried corn stalks in the fall, and hearty evergreens in the winter.
Furniture
There’s no reason why outdoor furniture shouldn’t be as comfortable or as beautiful as your living room sofa. Modern materials and weather-resistant fibers means homeowners are no longer stuck with the same heavy iron table set or traditional wicker furniture of yesteryear. Opt instead for outdoor sectionals with plush cushions or a large wooden farm table with mismatched chair. Short on space? Create visual interest on a small front porch with a standout chair upholstered in a bold color.
Now remember, outdoor décor isn’t just for the warmer months. Curb appeal is a year round commitment, so have fun swapping out your furnishings as the seasons change!
