What’s Bugging You This Weekend?

QUICK WAYS TO GET YOUR OUTDOOR AREAS READY TO ROLL!

We are all hoping that the worst of the nasty weather is over.  Mother Nature has poked her head out a few days with a smile on her face.  We’ve had enough warm, sunny days to notice one thing….our patios are yucky!  May is always a big month for occasions.  Graduations, Mother’s Day and birthdays galore.  Lot’s of guys can’t wait to get out the pressure washers to blow away the winter and set up the most important thing.  The grill.

There is nothing like the first burger of the season.  The one the chef has timed perfectly with the 2 beer rule.  With cheese, or without, everyone is ready for the real kick off of summer.  The chef thinks his work is done and all is ready for the season.

SO WHAT’S BUGGING YOU?

MAYBE IT’S THE FOUNDATION PIECES

If you could not store the furniture out of the weather, you still have some cleaning to do.  Even that is not too bothering.  There is a great sense of accomplishment getting it ready for the season and you get to be outside.  You may have some nice, fairly new furniture that looks like the examples above.  It’s all nice furniture, functions for your needs…but it’s kinda “meh” in its natural state from the showroom floors.  Sometimes we buy too many pieces that all look the same.  There are easy fixes and it can be fun infusing your personality with the foundation pieces you have.  Let’s look.

THE UNIVERSAL LEVELER

Start by added lighting of some kind.  Then build a base of bold black and white accents.  Garden stools can be drink tables and extra seating.  They are light weight enough to move easily and change up the function and look of the layout.  Outdoor rugs define the space and are, well, cheap.  If you plan on a new one each year you will be thrilled if it makes it two years.  If it will bug you to not have it be pristine if rained on…you can roll it out for the parties.  We really hope you enjoy it for yourself most tho.  If you don’t have wall art outside, think about it, especially for a covered area.  You are building an outdoor “room”.

Next, with a black and white layer added to the neutral foundation pieces, you can go in so many directions to add to your style.  Can’t decide what accent pieces to get?  Get several and switch them out for parties.  How fun to have a few different looks. Start with pillows and gear the other accessories around them.  MIX IT UP.  Go bolder than you think you should…It’s Summer!

Staying with Neutrals…Add Texture

Or Rock it with Color

Nearly Everything works with A Black and White Rug

Stripes and Patterns Area Natural Companions Outside

We will let you in on a designer’s secret when planning outdoor areas.  We don’t spend a lot of money outdoors on our own homes.   The elements, no matter where you live, can play havoc on finishes.  Outdoor parties are “messier” than inside gatherings.  Food, music, a few adult beverages or popsicle juice, usually translates into a lot of fun.  We want you to be able to relax and enjoy your outdoor spaces.  Here are several outdoor living spaces, designed by each of us, with a budget in mind.

THE IMPRESS THE MOTHER IN LAW ALFRESCO DINING

THE GIRLFRIEND GUSH

SECRET SHOPPING WEAPON

With the exception of the fantastic “lightning bug” lanterns (by Rillia Katja) all the items shown above we suggested for your foundation pieces, are from World Market.   Yep, the same place you can pick up wine and international party foods if you are lucky enough to have a store close by.  If you don’t have one nearby, don’t fret, they do a bang up job with quick shipping from the online store.  At LBD we always advise clients to buy the best you can afford.  We also like to show that good design does not have to be expensive.  This is an area where an hour or two with a designer, even via emails and quick photos, can help give you the confidence to WOW everyone…even yourself!

Whose 

Your New BFF