Wide Open Spaces

Building an outdoor space you'll actually want to spend time in

Jul 02, 2023

When I bought my first house, my biggest project was the outdoor area. At move-in, it was a mulch-filled, fenced-in area with clumps of overgrown grass and not much else. Once I saved up enough money to actually change that, I sought to turn it into an extension of the home itself — an extra living area, essentially, in which I could lounge around, host dinner parties, etc.

the before

Of course, the space was eventually finished right before the pandemic started, so dinner parties gave way to lots of solo reading time and outdoor gym sessions. The space remains one of my favorite makeovers and I hope to create something similar in future spaces.

the after

This issue is all about creating the outdoor space of your dreams, whether it’s in a big backyard or a small apartment porch. In my estimation, a handful of pieces can make even a diminutive area feel luxurious and Italian villa-worthy.

Non-negotiables for any outdoor space:

Bug repellent: Whether it’s a non-toxic spray or a candle, insect repellent is a necessity.
Plants: Obviously, what types of plants you place in your space depends entirely on your climate (and your green thumb level). If you can swing it, space-wise, citrus trees are the most luxurious, beautiful plants for an area with sun and are widely available at places like Lowe’s and Home Depot.
Outdoor furniture: Heat, pollen, and rain can really do a number on furniture, so purchasing pieces made for the outdoors (and the covers to go over them) will ensure longevity. This might seem like a no-brainer but I see people frequently who purchase, for instance, iron pieces for their outdoor Florida spaces. With the salt air, that stuff rusts in like a month.