HOW TO PREPARE YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE FOR SUMMER

In summer, outdoor spaces can become extensions of our living space. If you have a garden or patio, adding some comfortable furniture, sources of light and other outdoor accessories can help transform your outdoor space into an inviting place to relax and unwind. Here is our list of outdoor living essentials that you need to get prepped for summertime!

Comfortable Outdoor Seating & Table

Your outdoor furniture needs will depend on your space constraints, climate and lifestyle.

Opt for durable outdoor materials like teak, steel, powder-coated metal, resin wicker and anything that can handle exposure to sunlight, moisture and outdoor temperature changes. If you have the space for it, creating multiple areas (one for dining, one as a quiet retreat)  — can make your space more dynamic.

Source of Shade

If you have a sunny outdoor space and enjoy spending extended periods of time outside, you’ll appreciate some shade protection. Shade sources can take all forms, including shady trees, pergolas draped in vines, shade sails mounted on wires, retractable awnings and more.

Freestanding umbrellas can be the most effective option (and the most budget-friendly) if you want the flexibility of being able to move a spot of shade where you need it.

Outdoor Lighting

Nothing quite sets the mood in a garden like soft lighting. Installing an outdoor lighting system is a larger investment and requires a lighting professional, whereas adding freestanding solar-powered lights, or battery operated LED lights along pathways is something easy to do on your own. Hanging string lights over a seating area adds instant atmosphere and is also easier than it may seem.

When purchasing any outdoor lighting, make sure to choose ones specifically for outdoor use, which will often have seals to keep out moisture, among other features.

Grill

If you don’t have a grill, or if you’d like to upgrade your setup, it’s helpful to know that grills generally fall into categories based on fuel type. While gas-powered covered grills and freestanding charcoal grills may be the most common types out there, make sure to choose a grill that suits your space, ventilation and lifestyle.