Did you know that we are meant to spend three to five hours outdoors every day? We all love enjoying our outdoor spaces, and this does not have to be an activity reserved for sunny days only! We can hit that hour target easily with some well-strategized outdoor structures that let you enjoy your outdoor areas when the weather turns. The goal is to create an outdoor space that is a sophisticated extension of your home, no matter the season.
A well-designed outdoor structure should look good, shelter from the elements, and cover enough room for lounging, dining, or even working from home.
Adding A Deck Pavilion To Your Backyard
We love any outdoor addition that can also be a focal point that ties the elements of your entire backyard together. If your outdoor space is for relaxing, hosting, or just escaping the day, a pavilion for your deck is a must. It creates a shaded area where you can have your morning coffee or enjoy some more serious drinks with friends, no matter what the weather decides to do that day. Add some mood lighting like fairy lights or a small chandelier, and you’ve got a space to enjoy into the evening hours.
A deck pavilion is a low maintenance home addition, and because it’s a semi-enclosed space, it offers a bit of privacy while still allowing you to feel connected to the outdoors. The bonus cherry on top? It can boost your property value, adding appeal for future buyers.
Pergola Kits To Add Character, Comfort, And Shade
The hassle of custom builds can sometimes be a barrier for those looking to improve their space. Pergola kits simplify this as they come pre-cut, pre-drilled, and ready to assemble. It’s an easy, DIY way to build a beautiful, functional pergola without the lengthy installation process.
These kits come in traditional wooden designs, modern aluminum options, and more, so you can match them to whatever look you like.
The versatility of pergola kits allows for a level of easy customization. You can choose the size, shape, and features you like, and if you opt for a wood kit, it can be stained or painted to match your home’s exterior. We recommend the vinyl and aluminum options for a lower-maintenance level of durability, especially if you live in a humid climate.
Pro tip: Check out the available add-ons for your kit of choice, like retractable canopies, integrated seating, or even built-in lighting.
Shade Sails And Arbors For Smaller Areas
Shade sails, with their sleek, stretched fabric design, are an easy and flexible way to create shaded, cozy spots anywhere in your garden, even if you are only trying to cover a small area. Available in various shapes and sizes, they can be tailored to cover anything from a child’s play area to a spacious patio. Many shade sails are also waterproof, providing relief from the sun and protection from rain—ideal for those unpredictable weather days. Plus, their simple setup means they’re easy to move or adjust based on your needs.
Arbors are a little bit more permanent but bring a bit more sophistication to the look of your garden. Traditionally designed with a frame that can be dressed with climbing plants, they’re smaller than pergolas and serve as inviting focal points. An arbor is perfect for marking a pathway, framing a view, or creating a quiet spot for reading or relaxing.
Awnings Are A Minimal Setup Must
While it’s not an appropriate option for every space, the areas that can have them need retractable awnings.
They can be extended when you need shade and rolled back when you want to soak up the sun. This flexibility means you can adapt your outdoor area to changing weather and can spice up the design of your yard with vibrant or patterned fabrics.
For a simple DIY alternative to a professional awning installation, you can drape a lightweight cloth (we recommend a sari, muslin, or even a colorful tablecloth) over a homemade frame. This easy setup creates shade while adding a pop of color to your outdoor area without any complex installation.
What Is Your Next Project Going To Be?
Whatever you want to do, DrHomey has the inspiration and ideas you need to dive into your next project! We love beautiful spaces and want to make sure you have everything you need for all aspects of interior and exterior design. Bookmark our site for easy access to all the knowledge about the latest trends for your home, including practical advice from our experienced contributors.
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