20 Things Every Outdoor Living Space Needs (According to A Designer)
Trying to pull together an outdoor living space? I’m imagining cozy summer nights spent around a fire, glass of wine in hand- or hosting outdoor dinner parties with a seasonal spread of grilled goodness… it’s a classic vision. Today, I wanted to share some ideas for pulling together an outdoor living space you’ll love for years to come. I definitely believe there is a formula and list of essentials that can help you get the ball rolling and make the most of your unused outdoor areas. Here are 20 things everything outdoor living space needs (according to me- a designer), along with the things I’d skip. Let me know what essentials are on your list! You might be surprised by some of these- and lots are on sale right now.
This post is sponsored by Wayfair. All content, ideas, and words are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that allow me to create unique content while featuring products we actually use & enjoy!
Wayfair’s Hot Summer Sale ends tonight, so if you’ve been on the hunt for a patio, backyard, or a balcony refresh… now is the time to snag up to 70% off! You’ll find deep discounts on their best-selling, highly rated outdoor products. I also shared Wayfair patio finds I’d buy again, so give that post a read if you missed it. Here are some of my top picks for a timeless outdoor living space.
My Outdoor Living Essentials
1. A Shade Source
I’m a firm believer every outdoor space needs some sort of shade to be functional… be it a pergola, umbrella, or even large trees. We have a white pergola in our backyard.
2. Terracotta Planters
I’m not sure exactly how many terracotta planters I have at this stage in life, but it’s a quite the collection. These never go out of style and are my favorite way to add texture, color, and greenery to any outdoor space. I have them in all shapes and sizes. Concrete or stone planters are also a win, in my book.
3. An Outdoor Area Rug
Using an outdoor area rug to define the space and separate outdoor living spaces is essential for outdoor floor planning… especially in large areas! It’s important to anchor and ground outdoor living spaces since they’re not within the confines of a room- with a floor, ceiling, and walls. They help your vignette feel defined and inviting.
4. Classic Lighting
Good exterior lighting is a must… and just like indoors- it should be layered! Use solar pathway lights, sconces, pendants, and string lights for a balanced and charming aesthetic that feels warm & welcoming.
5. A Solid Foundation
From pea gravel to pavers, using an intentional material to quite literally set the foundation for your space is key. Here’s how to easily tile over an existing concrete patio… because of all the things- concrete is not the move for a classic look.
6. Comfortable Seating
Above all, choose comfortable seating… chairs you actually want to spend time in. Imagine you’re sitting around the fire or at the dining table for hours on end, select a seat with a cushion that feels supportive- even better if it has arms. We have and LOVE these oversized chairs.
7. Practical Accessories
I’m not a huge fan of leaving accessories outdoors. Aside from plants, planters, and statues or busts meant to live outdoors, I’m not dragging decor outside to be ruined by the elements. When it comes to decor, I’m choosing practical accessories- like citronella candles for the side table to keep bugs away.
8. Outdoor Dining
Having a space to share a meal is essential… even if you’re short on space! Opt for a bistro table with two chairs. Here’s how to choose a timeless and durable outdoor dining set that will last. Our outdoor dining set comfortably fits six, and often times I wish we had the space for a larger table, since we host often.
9. A Fire Pit
If you have room for a fire pit or table, by all means… buy one! Believe me when I say, that is one outdoor purchase you’ll never regret. It adds instant romance. Something about a flickering flame keeps people sitting and chatting around it for hours. Some of my best conversations have happened around the fire.
10. Greenery or Plants
Live greenery or plants is another must. The more lush and green an outdoor living space is, the better. I enjoy layering plants for a classic garden aesthetic. Potted plants always feel charming and functional, since they’re easy to move around.
11. Outdoor Speakers or Integrated Audio
While integrated audio is obviously the dream… you can easily snag a solar outdoor bluetooth speaker, like this landscaping rock that blends right in with your environment. Hide it behind a hedge and set the backdrop for easy entertaining.
12. String Lights
Another essential that will give you the biggest bang for your buck is string lights. They instantly add ambiance and a warm glow that really makes any outdoor living space look good once the sun goes down.
13. Outdoor Rated Textiles
Any pillows or cushions you use outside should be wet-rated and fade resistant… otherwise, you’re wasting your money. I’d also encourage you to take a look at replacement cushions if your decade-old set is looking tired. If you’ve tried reviving it to no avail, it’s time for an upgrade. This Sunbrella set is on sale in all colors!
14. Privacy
Nothing kills the mood or aesthetic of an outdoor living space faster than nosey neighbors peering in. From outdoor curtain panels to a hedge or trellis, use greenery and strategic objects to design a private outdoor living space that feels secluded and intentional.
15. Accent Furniture
Accent furniture like garden stools or side tables are probably the most versatile thing you can purchase for your patio or outdoor living space. You can easily float them where they’re needed, they double as extra seating, and always offer a place to rest a cold drink.
16. A Grill or Cooktop
I’m partial to stainless steel in outdoor design, and I’m also a firm believer every outdoor living space needs some sort of grill or cooktop- especially if you’re hosting. This one feels aesthetically pleasing and happens to be on sale!
17. Outdoor Dishes & Drinkware
While shatterproof dishes and glassware aren’t entirely essential, they are handy to have- especially with pavers or a hard surface on your patio.
18. A Heat Source
Never under estimate the functionality and appeal of a freestanding patio heater… like a moth to a flame, we huddle around ours every fall- trying to extend the life of our patio season. They also make ceiling mount or wall heater options- and a fire pit also counts! Having a heat source is key.
19. Doormat
I love having a doormat… simple as it is, it makes going in and out easier to wipe shoes, and it adds an additional design layer. I feel like it completes an entry door vignette and makes going in and out of our home more functional. It gives us a place to drop shoes. Here’s why we don’t wear shoes in the house.
20. Furniture Covers or Outdoor Storage
Last, but not least… having designated outdoor storage or furniture covers is key in keeping your outdoor furniture looking nice. If you’re investing in a nice outdoor living space, this is the easiest way to keep it looking beautiful and functional for years to come. Don’t skip the covers!
5 Outdoor Living Design Tips
I’ve also got some quick and easy outdoor design tips for you! Here are a handful of things I keep in mind (as a designer) to make our outdoor living space withstand the test of time…
- Lean into natural materials – Rather than plastic mulch, I’m looking at natural materials… wood, marble chips, pea gravel, stone, etc. Not only is it more durable, but it won’t go out of style.
- Invest in furniture that is made for exterior use – Don’t waste your money on furniture that won’t last. Be sure you’re investing in pieces designed for use outdoors… wet-rated, mold-resistant, and fade-resistant choices will hold up best.
- Design as if you’re designing indoors – Floor plan just as you would inside. Use area rugs to define each space, layer lighting, and consider both comfort and functionality.
- Think of your outdoor space in zones – One big outdoor space never works. Instead, create zones- dividing your outdoor living area into functional sections… a dining area, a lounge or seating section, a garden, etc.
- Layer multiple types of lighting – This is where most people go wrong… they don’t install enough outdoor lighting. In addition to hardwired fixtures (sconces, pendants, porch lights, etc), you should also install landscape lighting, table lamps, string lights, etc. A good lighting plan is essential for creating a welcoming outdoor environment.
Questions?
I love these… because our home is a colonial, they would fit right in! Now, to figure out how to get a pool. That’s something I’ve always dreamed of installing here at home.
We pressure wash the patio, furniture, and cushions at the beginning of each spring season. I also use the leaf blower each week to keep things clean and free of dust… and as I previously mentioned, furniture covers are a must in our climate.
We keep ours in this box! It’s visually pleasing, almost looks like a planter, and functions well for us.
Related Posts
Looking for more designer approved outdoor picks and exterior living design advice? I’m going to link some reader favorites for you below…
- Chic Garden & Landscaping Finds to Upgrade Your Backyard
- How to Set a Summer Table for Outdoor Entertaining
- The Best Fence Post Solar Lights for a Classic Look
- 25 Neutral & Beautiful Outdoor Area Rugs for the Patio
- Where to Install Outdoor DIY Solar Landscape Lighting
- Grandeur vs Emtek Exterior Door Hardware
- Choosing Timeless Exterior Lighting (A Designer Guide)
- Al Fresco Summer Tablescape
- Classic Planters for Every Aesthetic and Budget
Do you currently have an outdoor living area? Are you planning to create one- or do you have the space? I’d love to hear your current situation in the comments below. I hope you found this post helpful! Wayfair is also offering fast & free delivery on orders over $35 during this sale. We’re constantly improving our outdoor areas, and while our budget keeps our grand plans in check… our process is slowly paying off. Anyone else?
