Stylish Outdoor Living for Modern Empty Nesters

There’s something magical about a backyard retreat surrounded by nature. It gives you a special escape, allows you to unwind and breathe in fresh air. During the COVID pandemic, we learned how invaluable having an outdoor living space was during quarantine. Whether you enjoy reading on a lounge chair, entertaining a group of friends, or relaxing by the pool, stylish outdoor living is essential for modern empty nesters.

With late summer nights and crisp Fall evenings on the way, now is the perfect time to get rid of your old, weathered outdoor furniture and transform your backyard, patio or balcony into a stylish outdoor haven for modern empty nesters! Creating an ideal al fresco area will not only bring you outdoors, but it will extend and maximize your home’s living space.

Designing Your Stylish Outdoor Living Space

Whether you have a patio, deck, or balcony, designing a stylish outdoor space requires some careful planning and attention to detail. In this guide, let’s explore some key elements to consider in creating your outdoor oasis.

• Designing Your Dream Outdoor Space: Start by determining how you want to use your outdoor living area. Will it primarily serve as a dining space, a lounge area, or a combination of both? Outdoor lounge areas are very popular right now. Any space can be transformed into a dining/lounge area with good planning!

• Define Your Space: Evaluate and consider the different zones within your outdoor space. Designate separate areas for dining, lounging, and possibly a corner for a lounge chair. Create good flow and ensure there’s enough room for movement between zones. Draw the space on paper or lay tape onto your patio floor to see if your selections will fit comfortably. This will ensure you’re not overzealous with the amount of furniture you order at the outset. You can always add more later! Remember to consider different shapes and configurations of furniture to maximize seating space, such as this curved sectional above.

• Choose Your Style: Are you going for modern California cool, modern farmhouse, midcentury modern or contemporary mediterranean vibe? Determine which aesthetic goes best with your house and personality and take off from there. Head to McGee & Co., One Kings Lane, Overstock and Plow&Hearth for inspiration. They have a wide selection of outdoor furniture, as well as planters, lighting, fire pits, storage units, benches and other unique accessories for your outdoor space.

• Choose High Quality, Comfortable Furniture: Outdoor furniture can get a beating from unpredictable elements. Investing in high-quality, weather-resistant furniture that is sturdy, stylish and comfortable. Opt for durable materials like teak, aluminum, or synthetic wicker that can withstand windy conditions. Choose fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain. Many come with Sunbrella outdoor fabrics that are made for the outdoors.
• Provide Ample Shade: As we get older, our delicate skin needs shade! Shielding your dining and lounge area from direct sunlight is crucial for comfort. Incorporate shade solutions such as retractable awnings, umbrellas, and pergolas. These additions not only protect you from the sun but also add a touch of elegance to the space.

• Lighting is Essential: Lighting at night is essential. It allows you to use your outdoor area well after it is dark and keeps the party going for hours! Extend the usability of your backyard patio into the evening with appropriate lighting. Combine different layers of lighting, such as wall sconces, accent lighting, lanterns, candles, string lights and pathway lights. Soft lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Visual Comfort is a great source for beautiful designer lighting that will add an artistic touch inside your home and outdoors.

Bring Indoor Elements to your Outdoor Space

• Bring the Indoors Outside: Make your al fresco area inviting and cozy by including soft furnishings that you would use inside to your outdoor space, such as outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and blankets. These additions not only provide comfort but also bring warmth and style to the space. Outdoor heat lamps bring warmth in the cooler months and ensure you can entertain outside for hours!

• Add Greenery for Beauty and Privacy: If you have a green thumb, adding plants and greenery using different sized pots can bring a sense of style and tranquility to your outdoor area. Incorporate pretty planters, small potted plants, hanging baskets, or even a vertical garden. For extra privacy, you can use trellises, screens, or tall plants to define boundaries for your outdoor area.

• Music Sets the Mood: Set the mood with music using outdoor speakers that fit your vibe. These days, you don’t even need to install outdoor speakers for music with bluetooth options, such as Sonos. Whether you are entertaining or just relaxing solo, music is always the perfect addition to your backyard patio.

• Personalize It and Style It: Finally, infuse your personality as you transform your backyard. Choose color schemes, patterns, and accessories that reflect your taste and create a cohesive look. Incorporate tableware, table linens, and decorative elements that enhance the overall ambiance and make your al fresco dining and lounge area feel like an extension of your home.

Create an Outdoor Haven for Empty Nesters

Designing stylish outdoor living for modern empty nesters requires careful thought and consideration. By defining the purpose, planning the layout, selecting comfortable pieces providing shade, lighting, greenery, and personalizing your space, you can truly create an backyard patio which is a true extension of your home. It will become your favorite space where, as an empty nester, you can relax, entertain, and enjoy memorable moments with family and friends. Enjoy creating your perfect al outdoor haven!

Have a pool? Check out the post Empty Nesters with the Coolest Pool in Town!