Indoors Out

Spring is here, I think. Today is the first day of Spring. It may not feel like it, but I'm celebrating regardless. It is also Read's birthday. I'm sure he will love his new outdoor room. Happy Birthday Honey!

The new paint job was making my porch furniture look old and tired. Fortunately, the pieces are all in great condition and my cushions needed some help. 

 Since our living room opens up onto the back porch, I wanted the rooms to flow seamlessly. That way, we can open up the sliding doors and feel like both rooms function together. The looks need to be cohesive so I chose a unifying color -- aqua and took it outside. 

 I went with a Sunbrella. Not just an "outdoor fabric" -- actual Sunbrella. It is pricey, but worth every cent. It will hold up to the elements and is bleach-able. You know how I love bleach. Even the cording is Sunbrella which gives this outdoor space an inside feel. 

 By bringing indoor items out -- rugs (make sure it is made for the outdoors), bright trays, statues, candles -- you can really create a cozy outdoor room. 

Teddy loves his new room...

 I had an old WhiteCraft ottoman that I spray painted a glossy gray. I had a removable cushion made to give the space a custom feel and mix up the "set" look that outdoor furniture can take on.

The pattern on the ottoman has a flame stitch vibe and mimics the outdoor rug I found at HomeGoods. 

 Potted plants add color and are the perfect accessory to an outdoor space. 

 These are last year's World Market pillows but I love them. I threw them in the wash and they look like new! 

 I love my resin clam shells. I drilled holes in them for water drainage and replant them every season with everything from bright blooms to succulents. 

I needed some side tables that would hold up to weather. I found these resin clothes hampers at HomeGoods for $39.99. Much cheaper than their furniture counterpart -- over $500 for the "good stuff". These have already lasted 3 years and look just like new. Plus they are great for storage. Remember to place citronella candles about. 

Must use a garden stool for extra seating or more importantly, a drink spot. 
What about you? Spring cleaning leaving you wanting more from your outdoor spaces? Send us your outdoor rooms -- we would love to see what you are doing to create an indoor look outdoors. 

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Write by: AN - Wednesday, March 20, 2013