Ever dreamed of hosting an outdoor movie night in your own backyard? Seeing this inspired outdoor room made me excited about creating something similar on my deck. Imagine a warm evening, a simple screen, cozy seating and a table piled with snacks — doesn’t that sound like the perfect summer party?
Where did I find this outdoor-theatre inspiration?
Last week I was in New York City with my husband for a rare getaway. Part of that trip was an invitation from Lowe’s Home Improvement to attend an event showcasing three outdoor room designs created by talented designers. The event supported charity, which made it even more special.
The party took place in an unbelievable Soho loft with a stunning view of the city. Lowe’s hosted us with drinks and hors d’oeuvres while designers and guests mingled and discussed the details of each outdoor vignette. It was a wonderful evening full of ideas and creative energy.
Danny Seo’s outdoor movie setup really stood out. He used a simple drop cloth as a screen, arranged comfortable seating and added a drinks-and-popcorn table. The result felt effortless, inviting and very doable at home. With minimal fuss you can recreate an outdoor cinema that becomes the highlight of summer evenings.
If a movie night isn’t your style, an al fresco dining space might be. One designer created a charming outdoor dining room complete with lush plants, artful table settings and string lights overhead — a perfect setting for dinner under the stars.
Marcela Valladolid’s dining space featured abundant greenery and colorful details. A standout feature was a succulent wall that served as living art and a striking focal point. The combination of plants, bright dishes and layered textures made the space feel both relaxed and celebratory.
This dining design feels ideal for entertaining — intimate, colorful and full of personality.
Elaine Griffin’s outdoor sitting room was another favorite. She layered color, texture and pattern to create a cozy retreat that invites long conversations over iced tea.
Her mix of fun pillows, layered rugs and green accents created a private oasis. She even repurposed stock trellises and embellished them with painted ceiling medallions, resulting in an unexpected and delightful design detail. The space felt personal, creative and comfortable.
I also loved the outdoor lamps used in several vignettes — they added real ambiance and warmth. Yes, some of those lamps are rated for outdoor use, and they make evening gatherings feel cozy and well lit.
I’m inspired to layer outdoor rugs this summer. I already keep durable, neutral rugs on my decks to survive Seattle’s weather, but adding a colorful layer will make the space feel refreshed and more inviting.
Choosing a single favorite among these outdoor rooms is tough — I’d happily borrow ideas from all three. They’re practical and approachable, proving that creating an outdoor retreat is more about thoughtful details than big budgets. If you’re planning summer projects, sources like Lowe’s Creative Ideas magazine and website are full of useful inspiration for DIY transformations.
Which outdoor room do you like best?
The designers are asking for your vote. The winner will earn a $50,000 donation to the charity of their choice. If you want to support a design, vote on Lowe’s Facebook page and help the chosen charity benefit.
Many thanks to Lowe’s and their team for including me in this lovely event. I had an amazing time and came away inspired by all the creative outdoor designs. A portion of my trip was provided by Lowe’s.