Your Outdoor Sanctuary Awaits - Wilmington interiordecorating

The line between indoors and outdoors continues to blur as many of us want to take our indoorcomforts and solitude outdoors. This concept is becoming more realistic as many manufacturers ofhome products develop more and more appliances, furniture, lighting and accessories that can beused indoors or out.

People are driven to find peaceful sanctuaries as aprescription for our stressful lives. Outdoor patios andporches are becoming more sophisticated and refined, andare becoming a living extension of the indoor spaces.Three season indoor spaces are also making a come back.

Creating or renovating an outdoor space has many elements. Landscape design, stonework andcarpentry are all critical components of designing your outdoor haven. Outdoor furnishings, lightingand accessories are also an essential element in your overall plan. As you begin the process andconsider space planning and design be sure to include the entire family. You will be amazed at thewish list that you come up with.

Your outdoor space should accommodate all your needs throughout the year. Do you entertainoutdoors? Make sure that there will be enough seating for your larger parties. Do you spend timeoutdoors in the evenings and at night? Make sure that you have adequate lighting and bug controlincluded in your plan. Is the outdoor grill seasonal for you or all year round? Where you place thegrill and whether it has a protective roof will make a difference depending on how you use it. Do youplan to have your family meals outdoors often? If so make sure that your dining area comfortablyaccommodates your family and then some.

Outdoor furniture has greatly evolved from the folding, vinyl strap versions of the past, to beautifulpieces made of teak, steel, rattan, and wicker. Many pieces look just like indoor furniture but areconstructed and designed to stand up to the North Eastern outdoor elements.

Fabrics are being manufactured to resist fading from ultraviolet rays, to resist mildewing from dampconditions and to resist odor absorption. These types of fabrics are a must for any upholstery ordrapery that will be used outdoors or in a screened-in location.

Lighting is also a very important aspect in creatingan inviting outdoor space. Be sure you incorporatevarious types of lighting in your outdoor space justas you would in your indoor spaces. Landscapelighting, overhead lighting, ceiling fans ordecorative side lighting are good ideas. Torches ortiki lighting can also be a charming and functionalelement to your lighting plan. Developing a creativelighting plan can help you create a space withincreased ambiance and functionality.

Remember to create a space that is perfect for you and your needs. This is a space where memorieswill be made so consider it an important investment. I like to call an investment like this anemotional anchor: a space where your family gathers, shares and remembers forever.