Create an Outdoor Living Space for Relaxing and Entertaining

Transform an area of the backyard into an inviting outdoor oasis perfect for relaxing or entertaining. This do-it-yourself project is as easy as redecorating any other room of the home; you just have to begin with a solid design plan.

Consider the area's primary function and choose a site with adequate access to the house, walkways and electrical outlets. Choose a basic unifying theme and color palette to give the area a polished design.

Furniture
Retailers now offer outdoor furniture with the posh style of traditional indoor furniture. Plush loveseats, dining sets and end tables are a comfortable upgrade from old-fashioned lawn furniture.

Although these products can tolerate the elements, covering or storing them inside during severe weather can extend their lifespan.

Ground Cover
Unless the outdoor room is part of a deck or paved area, it is important to choose a practical foundation. Installing stones or pavers creates a smooth, even foundation for outdoor furniture.

A large outdoor rug adds warmth and contrast to stone elements. Shop for rugs, such as the Martha Stewart Living indoor/outdoor rugs, that resist mildew and fading.

Lighting
Enhance or upgrade the existing lighting to make the most of an outdoor oasis. Basic choices such as hurricane lamps, lanterns and string lights add ambiance. Special string lights are available for gazebos and cost as little as $20.

A chandelier adds a sense of elegance and sophistication to an outdoor dining area. Some models, such as the Home Wellington Outdoor Chandelier, do not require professional installation and plug into a standard wall socket.

Fire Element
A fire pit can keep the outdoor room warm and cozy during chilly weather, turning it into more than a warm-weather destination. Portable fire pits come in a variety of sizes. To find the right size, consider the scale of the outdoor furnishings and allow ample room for safe pathways. Purchase a weatherproof cover to help protect the portable fire pit and avoid rusting.

Landscaping
Lush greenery completes the beautiful outdoor oasis. Potted plants are a good choice because it is easy to rearrange them and, if necessary, replace dead plants without toiling in a flowerbed.

Choose pots that accent the living area's color scheme. Create budget-friendly custom flower pots with spray paint, such as Krylon Fusion for Plastic.

Arrange plants in clusters to accent seating or dining areas. Another option is to use them to define the outdoor room and create living boundaries. Try specialty planters that attach to deck railing or use hanging baskets of ivy and flowering vines are to enhance tall structures, such as a gazebo.