3 Summer Spaces to Inspire Your Outdoor Living

BH&G

Wouldn’t you like to have lunch on that screened porch?

It looks cool and comfortable — an inviting outdoor room that draws you outside on a pleasant summer morning or a warm evening.

The weathered green chairs paired with the dark wood table and floors create a relaxed, lived-in feeling. A sunny yellow throw rug brightens the space and adds a cheerful contrast to the deeper tones. The overall mood is charming and easygoing, perfect for lingering with a book or a glass of iced tea.

BH&G

And that funky front door — love it!

The mustard yellow paint makes a bold statement, and the oversized zinc numbers add personality while clearly welcoming guests. It signals warmth and invites visitors to come in and stay awhile.

eclectic front porch with mixed fabricsBH&G

Turn to the left of that door and you’ll find a playful front porch.

The eclectic mix of fabrics and furnishings adds drama and personality. Layering patterns and textures gives the porch a collected, comfortable look that feels both intentional and relaxed.

At my own home I’m still working on a porch and a few simple garden areas around the yard. I’ll be sharing more of those projects in the coming days and weeks as each space progresses.

We’ve had some rainy weather recently, but I’m hoping for an extended stretch of dry, warm days so I can finish what I’ve started. I’ve been enjoying every chance to be outside, and even a little effort has made a noticeable difference in how much we’re enjoying our yard.

In my previous house I focused mostly on indoor projects and didn’t do much gardening, so it’s been a treat to get back to working in the yard. Gardening and creating outdoor rooms feel therapeutic to me — even if my plant skills aren’t perfect, I enjoy the process of puttering with plants and shaping outdoor spaces.

Do you enjoy creating summer spaces as much as I do? It’s been hot in many parts of the country, so some of you may be staying inside with the air conditioner. Here in Washington, we’re still building up to full summer weather — fingers crossed for warm, sunny days.