Ask anyone if they’d like to add more usable square footage to their home and the answer would be a resounding yes — particularly after the last couple of years. Home is a sanctuary. It’s where we are working, learning, living, playing, and staycationing these days. So it comes as no surprise that there has been a huge spike in backyard redesigns in recent years. Getting outside, and staying safely within the perimeter of our own homes, has never been more important.
As the warmer months approach, now is the time to consider how you’d like to optimize your own outdoor space — whether it’s refreshing the landscaping, adding some new furniture, or doing a complete overhaul. All lend to drawing everyone into the outdoors, and create an area you can use as often as the inside of your home (if not more). We looked to our own community for inspiration, as their yards have undergone some spectacular transformations — big and small — in recent months. Here are a handful of highlights from our amazing Neighborhood Showroom Hosts.
Host: Peter V.
Location: Falls Church, VA
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As shown by the images, refreshed landscaping added dimension, color, and warmth to this outdoor space in Falls Church. They recently added an Outer Teak Sectional for even more comfort and coziness.
“Our outdoor space is really an extension of our home. We spend a lot of time talking, playing games, entertaining, and dining outside when we can. It's important to us to have a space with furniture that is comfortable, well-designed, and adds to our enjoyment.”
Host: Lisa B.
Location: Smyrna, GA
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This backyard in Smyrna, Georgia underwent a major redesign when the owners replaced their swing set with a pool and spa. They brought in 23 truckloads of dirt to expand the backyard beyond the new pool area, which added plenty of room for playing and lounging by the pool — as well as the new fire pit area.
“We love to sit outdoors and entertain,” said owner Lisa B. “We wanted a space that was chic for our adult guests, but durable enough to survive teenagers and dogs that love to play in the backyard!”
Host: Cara H.
Location: Signal Mountain, TN
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The sparse furniture and set-up wasn’t doing justice to the spectacular views of Signal Mountain Bluff this back deck — located above a pool —provides. Host Cara H. recognized the need for more comfortable seating, so they could entertain and let several people enjoy the landscape together.
“We created a large hangout area that’s peaceful, calming, and comfortable to accommodate our love of entertaining,” said Cara. “Due to the mountain, we needed furniture that could withstand high winds. We use our Outer so much more because it is clean and dry. We love the space now that we have our Outer.”
Host: Kelly Bontrager
Location: Attica, MI
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What was initially a wooden platform has magically transformed into a gorgeous deck with a pergola, string lights, and a cozy Outer Wicker Sofa. The upgrade creates a much more inviting, welcoming space to relax, day and night.
“I can’t be more thankful for an incredibly warm and cozy outdoor space I’ve been able to create with the help of Outer,” says Host Kelly B.
Host: Emily H.
Location: Bay Area, CA
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What began as a beautiful porch with just two loveseats and an umbrella is now an extended living room with Outer Sofa, Rug, and other accessories that add warmth and texture to the space. Host Emily H.
“Our Sofa sits on the front deck of a house built in 1875 that overlooks a huge lawn on a quiet street in the downtown of a cute suburban town outside of San Francisco. Our kids play on the lawn and neighbors walk by on their way to the weekend farmers market. We plan to enjoy the sun and a drink on the deck while we chill out and people watch.”
We hope this sparks some ideas and inspiration for your own outdoor transformation projects. A little love, creativity, and freshly planted flowers can go a long, long way.