(Photo via Serena and Lily)

Happy April Everyone!  I’m SOOOO excited that April is finally here and the weather is starting to turn in our favor.   The best part of warm weather is simply that we get to spend time outside and when we aren’t working on the yard or playing with our kids we love to lounge and entertain on our patio a.k.a our outdoor living-room.  I think of our patio as an extension of our interior space.   On today’s post I want to share how I create that atmosphere.   So if you’re looking to achieve an extension of your interior space, outside, keep on reading!  If you have a deck, porch or patio I’m also going to suggest some of my favorite outdoor products to help you create your own outdoor oasis.  Today I’m going to focus on zones and outdoor rugs.

(Jordecor E-Design)

What is a zone?  A zone is a designated area that will serve a purpose in your space.  For example, where is the dining area going to be vs. seating area and/or grill set up?  If you have a smaller size outdoor space you may need to think about what will be most functional for you.  Perhaps the size of your outdoor space can’t accommodate two zones.  So do you prefer to dine outside or do you prefer to lounge with a book and a cup of coffee?  Once you decide what you will utilize most for your outdoor space to function as, you can start deciding on zones, measuring and picking out your pieces.  We are lucky to have a large patio, sometimes it almost feels too big.  It needs several zones to make it feel finished.  With out the multiple zones of furniture it would look very bare and empty.

Once you have a zone or multiple zones, you want to define that zone by adding an outdoor rug.  Make sure the rug you choose says outdoor.  I LOVE using rugs outside.  A rug makes a foundation for your space, even if you have beautiful decking or pavers or brick… adding that first layer on the ground is creating the zone and also adding visual interest plus coziness.  I would definitely suggest at least one outdoor rug to soften the hard surface and bring that interior feel outside.

Caring for Your Outdoor Rug

Outdoor rugs are made to get wet, and deal with the elements so they are durable.  However will they last for years and years?  Maybe a few if you take care of them.  Yes, I leave our outdoor rugs out in the rain.  However, I make sure to keep them in a sunny area on our patio.  This helps them dry out which prevents mold/mildew.  I find the sun even helps with cleaning them.  Occasionally, I take the rugs to the driveway and spray them with our power-washer and add some safe gentle cleaner (linked below), if we entertain and have a lot of stains we will spot clean and/or take the pressure washer to it with some soap.  Where we live the winters are very harsh so rolling it up and putting it in your garage or basement through the winter is key to the longevity of your outdoor rugs.

(photo via Serena and Lily)

 

What Style to Pick?

(from our beach house three summers ago)

You may want to stick with a color scheme or go neutral. It depends on your style.  If you prefer more coastal beach vibes, colorful, classic or southwestern, there is something for everyone.  Below find my favorites and in a low-mid price range.

My Outdoor Rug Picks

 

OUR CURRENT PATIO

There you have it, the first step in getting your outdoor space ready and refreshed for spring!  Zones and rugs.  Next I will share my favorite furniture, pillows and decor!

Thanks for stopping by,

Jordan

 

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