12 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Outdoor Living Spaces

Whether it's a welcoming courtyard, a narrow outdoor landing or a shady backyard spot, we've got 12 easy ways to bring style and substance to your favorite outdoor spaces.

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March 13, 2017

By: Brian Patrick Flynn

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Maximize Every Inch

The most effective way to use any outdoor area is with perimeter seating. Here, a modular sectional is configured to conform to a corner of this welcoming courtyard, putting every square inch to use. For optional flexibility, consider armless sectionals since the armless modules can also be added to elongate a straight-lined sofa.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Plan for Foot Traffic

Before you set up your outdoor space, consider the traffic pattern in and around the area. To ensure plenty of open space near the main entry, create a pathway that's at least four feet wide.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Ensure Shade

Any time you're setting up an outdoor space, make sure you consider natural shade sources to help keep your spot cool. Taking space-planning cues from its central planting bed, the courtyard offers plenty of shade thanks to its planted tree.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Add Flexible Furniture

Before committing to an outdoor coffee table, consider investing in something that can serve multiple functions. A grouping of concrete side tables adds a sculptural touch and allows guests to have their own individual surfaces to place drinks and snacks.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Buy It Now

Sunpan Union Modern End Table

Eco Concrete Samai Planter

Pier Outdoor Teak Sofa Set

Jute Aztec Decorative Pillow

Melon Indoor/Outdoor Pillow

Consider Impromptu Seating

When space is at a premium, the most efficient (and cost-effective) way to add a spot for every guest is with a pile of throw pillows. Stick with pillows sized 22 to 26 inches to ensure proper surface coverage to keep everyone seated comfortably.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Buy It Now

Decorative Chee Throw Pillow

Aztec Double-sided Pillow

Beth Lacefield Geometric Pillow

Opt for Armless

Make the most of your money by choosing sectional sofas with armless modules. Depending on how your space is used, the armless modules can be pulled apart and used as slipper chairs.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Buy It Now

Sunpan Union Modern End Table

Pier Outdoor Teak Sofa Set

Decorative Chee Throw Pillow

Update Your Underfoot

Create a sturdy, level underfoot in courtyards, patios or porches with brick pavers. This classic look mixes perfectly with a variety of architectural styles.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Create a Welcoming Entry

Create a welcoming statement near your entry with a classically styled garden bench. This lightweight piece can be easily moved and used as extra seating during formal or casual alfresco meals, too.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Bring in Classic Ceramics

Asian-inspired ceramic garden stools are one of the most timeless choices for adding impromptu seating to any part of the house. The most popular style is chinoiserie, which depicts botanical shapes and Asian landscapes in shades of blue and white.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Buy It Now

Safavieh Outdoor Blue Bench

Safavieh Garden Stool

Artisan Pillows Geometric Pillow

Artisan Pillows Paisley Pillow

Safavieh Madeline Throw Pillow

Don't Forget the Kiddos

Create a designated spot for kids by turning dead space into playful activity spots. Keep things versatile with maintenance-free stackable play tables and indoor-outdoor cushions for comfy seating.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Buy It Now

Pillow Perfect Outdoor Pillows

Safavieh Fantasia Pillows

Box Stackable Resin Coffee Table

Take Advantage of Vertical Space

Almost any outdoor spot can be transformed into a functional living space or lounge. While the narrow 5-by-14-foot landing outside this home office is too awkward for a sofa, it lends itself perfectly to taller seating options and petite decor like basket chairs, poufs and side tables.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Buy It Now

Rattan Hanging Chair and Stand

MA Trading Indo Gemma Pouf

MA Trading Khema Pillow

Eco-concrete Anemone Table

Indoor/Outdoor Savannah Zebra Rug

Layer It Up

The key to making outdoor spaces feel warm and welcoming is layering them like indoor spaces. Any time you plan a space try incorporating low-maintenance plants and potted flowers into the mix, along with carefree rugs that add color, pattern and texture.

12 Easy Ways to Optimize Your Outdoor Living Spaces

Related To:

Maximize Every Inch

Plan for Foot Traffic

Ensure Shade

Add Flexible Furniture

Buy It Now

Sunpan Union Modern End Table

Eco Concrete Samai Planter

Pier Outdoor Teak Sofa Set

Jute Aztec Decorative Pillow

Melon Indoor/Outdoor Pillow

Consider Impromptu Seating

Buy It Now

Decorative Chee Throw Pillow

Aztec Double-sided Pillow

Beth Lacefield Geometric Pillow

Opt for Armless

Buy It Now

Sunpan Union Modern End Table

Pier Outdoor Teak Sofa Set

Decorative Chee Throw Pillow

Update Your Underfoot

Create a Welcoming Entry

Bring in Classic Ceramics

Buy It Now

Safavieh Outdoor Blue Bench

Safavieh Garden Stool

Artisan Pillows Geometric Pillow

Artisan Pillows Paisley Pillow

Safavieh Madeline Throw Pillow

Don't Forget the Kiddos

Buy It Now

Pillow Perfect Outdoor Pillows

Safavieh Fantasia Pillows

Box Stackable Resin Coffee Table

Take Advantage of Vertical Space

Buy It Now

Rattan Hanging Chair and Stand

MA Trading Indo Gemma Pouf

MA Trading Khema Pillow

Eco-concrete Anemone Table

Indoor/Outdoor Savannah Zebra Rug

Layer It Up

Shop This Look

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