Since 2009, I’ve been working in the interior design industry. I’ve interned for a hospitality design company, worked in various furniture and fabric showrooms, and been an interior designer for a design-build firm. I decided to hang out my shingle and launch m studio interior design in 2015. And now I get to do what I love best: Design homes that are totally customized to the clients I work with!
As an interior design studio deeply passionate about the interplay between indoor comfort and the great outdoors, we’re thrilled to share our expertise on curating outdoor sanctuaries that promote relaxation and foster connections with the natural world. Are you ready!? Let’s explore the transformative power of plants, lighting, and furniture in creating captivating outdoor escapes!
It’s undeniable – plants have this beautiful ability to infuse vitality and tranquility into our lives. Inside our homes, they breathe life into our living rooms, bedrooms and more, fostering a deeper connection with nature. So, when it comes to crafting our outdoor sanctuaries, why not extend this refreshing touch of greenery?
One effective technique and fun design tip to try is to play with varying heights of both planters and plants. By strategically placing them at different levels, you can add depth and visual intrigue to your outdoor space.
AI generated design inspiration by m studio interior design
But don’t stop there, think vertically! Vertical gardens and hanging planters are ingenious solutions, especially for those with limited outdoor space. Transform a blah and bare wall into a true focal point of a masterpiece with a living wall or vertical garden. Visualize a variety of cascading ferns from the ceiling to create a captivating canopy of greenery.
Every plant, from those spiky sansevieria snake plants to the delicate jasmine flowers, brings its own unique charm and character to your outdoor haven. Beyond mere decoration, each leaf and petal contributes to a sense of relaxation, reminding us of our inherent connection with the natural world.
AI generated design inspiration by m studio interior design
Lighting is like the secret weapon in transforming any space, especially those outdoor spaces, from ordinary to extraordinary!! Create ambiance and drama with a thoughtfully curated mix of outdoor light fixtures, from soft string festoon lights to lanterns that make a dramatic statement.
AI generated design inspiration by m studio interior design
Aside from the decorative chandeliers and sconces, consider the architectural elements that you may want to highlight. A wonderful approach to offer ambient lighting during as the natural light starts to set is to incorporate uplighting among the landscape or step lights at any stairwells you may have. Guiding pathways with subtle ground lights and warming up cozy nooks with rope lights further adds to an inviting atmosphere.
AI generated design inspiration by m studio interior design
Furniture serves as the foundation of outdoor relaxation, inviting you to linger a bit and unwind in comfort. Of course you wouldn’t want to put just any sofa or chair in your outdoor space, so opt for durable, weather-resistant materials such as teak, rattan, or powder-coated aluminum that can withstand the elements while maintaining style and elegance. Oftentimes the outdoor upholstered furnishings you may discover are intended to withstand exterior elements making them solid choices to incorporate into your outdoor lounge or dining room.
AI generated design inspiration by m studio interior design
To bring out the coziness of indoors into your backyard or outdoor space, embrace plush cushions and oversized throws to create a cozy atmosphere, encouraging guests to sink into casual conversations or curl up with a good book. I love pairing a cushy outdoor sofa with lounge chairs of fun, textural movement such as woven or rope-like backs or even sculptural wooden frames that introduce organic lines further enhancing the space’s natural environment.
AI generated design inspiration by m studio interior design
So there you have it, designing outdoor spaces that promote relaxation and connection with nature is an artful blend of greenery, lighting, and furniture. By harnessing the power of plantlife and greenery, the magic of lighting and curating comfortable seating, you can transform your outdoor oasis into a haven of serenity and true relaxation. So, dare to dream big, succumb to the beauty of the outdoors, and let the world be your oyster as you craft a space that invites you to unwind, recharge, and connect with the natural world!
Did one of our design tips strike your fancy!? Tell us about it in the comments below!
Xoxo,
Megan
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