Curb Appeal Ideas: Inviting Outdoor Living Spaces

Add cozy style to your deck, porch, or patio with these simple strategies.

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April 30, 2015

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Less is More

Few things are more welcoming than cozy outdoor living spaces, but too much clutter on the front porch can scare off buyers when you're trying to sell a home. Scale your outdoor furniture to the size of your porch. Here, a small wooden bench adds an inviting touch to this home's entrance without overwhelming the narrow space. The bold pattern in the throw pillows complements the vivid red door.

Southern Charm

Larger porches can accommodate more elaborate outdoor living spaces, complete with tables, chairs, sofas and perhaps even a porch swing. On this front porch, wicker seating and a small tray table enhance the home's Southern appeal and help buyers imagine spending time there. The home's light-blue exterior is perfectly paired with yellow and white cushions for a sunny, cheerful look.

Stylish Details

Like interior spaces, exterior living spaces should reflect your personal style and complement your home's architecture. On this front porch, a patterned rug helps define the seating area and enhances the home's Spanish-style facade. Comfortable chairs, a small table and an antique-looking lantern complete the look.

Privacy and Panache

Potted plants serve two purposes in an outdoor living space: They add a splash of color, and they provide privacy for seating areas. On this porch, a few potted plants offer shelter for a daybed-style swing. Plus, the greenery coordinates with the colors of the throw pillows, tying everything together.

Work With Your Yard

If you don't have a real patio or porch but do have a front lawn area, you can still create an outdoor living space. Try setting apart a section of your yard with flagstone or small rocks. Then add a bench or a couple of chairs for a simple yet appealing seating area.

Set the Mood

If you want potential buyers to envision themselves spending time on your porch or patio, use props to create inviting alfresco scenes. Before showings, stage an outdoor table with a pitcher of lemonade, cups of coffee or glasses of wine.

Garden Seating

Seating areas don't have to be limited to porches and patios. In this yard, a small bistro set tucked into a garden area adds a lovely touch without looking too cluttered.

Curb Appeal Ideas: Inviting Outdoor Living Spaces

Related To:

Shop This Look

Less is More

Southern Charm

Stylish Details

Privacy and Panache

Work With Your Yard

Set the Mood

Garden Seating

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