Barrett Sotheby's International Realty
Mary-Lou McDonough, Barrett Sotheby's International RealtyPhone: (617) 947-9279
Email: [email protected]

Upgrade your outdoor living spaces in 3 simple ways

by Mary-Lou McDonough 06/26/2024

Regardless of temperature, it’s never too soon or too late to start thinking about improving your outdoor living spaces. If you want to spend more time outdoors, your backyard, side yard or even a small balcony can be the perfect place to get some fresh air.

If your outdoor space needs a refresh, try some of these simple upgrade ideas:

Add shade & privacy

Create shelter in your outdoor living space to improve your comfort and privacy. Conveniently, you can accomplish both goals at the same time by adding outdoor features like screens, fences or trellises.

For porches with an existing overhang, try hanging outdoor curtains for a simple shade and privacy solution. You can use light, airy fabrics to enjoy the natural light while sheltering your outdoor space from harsh rays.

For a boho chic approach, try adding eclectic patterns and colors. You can carry this style choice through to your outdoor furniture and decor to create a cohesive design.

Create an oasis with lush container plants

You don’t need expansive ground space to have a lush, beautiful garden in your outdoor space. There are plenty of options for container plants, both for functional and decorative purposes.

For a small space, vertical garden planters are ideal for adding greenery with a small footprint. Planting a personal herb garden is the perfect option for saving space while perfectly accenting your indoor or outdoor kitchen.

Try incorporating a mix of vibrant flowers in hanging baskets and tall, tropical plants in decorative pots to create the perfect backyard oasis.

Expand your seating options

A simple way to upgrade any outdoor space is by upgrading the outdoor seating and other furniture. If you like entertaining at home, it’s crucial to have enough seating to include your guests. To save space, try contemporary folding chairs with weather resistant cushions.

Arrange your seating around a focal point like an outdoor coffee table or fire pit. If your outdoor space boasts a beautiful view, focus your seating outward to enjoy it to the fullest. Incorporate lounge chairs and more upright seating to accommodate your every whim, from a quiet nap to an exciting outdoor dinner party.

Upgrading outdoor living spaces can be as simple as addressing your needs and personal style. By using these ideas as a starting point, you can take your outdoor space to a new level and enjoy it for seasons to come.

About the Author
Author

Mary-Lou McDonough

With strong connections to her community, Mary-Lou has held fund-raising events for The National Multiple Sclerosis Society, The Kids in Need Foundation and Dress for Success. This sense of personal responsibility extends to her professional life, and she continuously strives to exceed her clients’ expectations, empowering them throughout selling or buying process. "Only a well-informed client is prepared to make the best decisions on their own behalf, so the role of Market Expert is one I take very seriously.” It is this sense of personal accountability that drives Mary-Lou; keeping her focused on her clients and providing them with highest level of professionalism, solution-focused service, and sound guidance from start to SOLD!

Mary-Lou McDonough is Professionally Affiliated with The MASSACHUSETTS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® The GREATER BOSTON REAL ESTATE BOARD, THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, The Women’s Council of REALTORS®, The State and National Association of Certified Residential Specialists and The REALTORS® Political Action Committee

Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.