Summer means making the most of life outdoors, enjoying the sun and the energy it gives us. Whether with your feet in the sand or out on your own terrace, the idea is to slow down and make the most of the days. High temperatures are an invitation to spend more time outside, turning our private outdoor spaces into the ideal place to share time with family and friends in a more relaxed way. During this time of pandemic we’re living through, when we’re giving priority to spaces with few people in them, a garden, a terrace, a patio or even a simple balcony becomes fundamental to a more enjoyable summer, even at home.
1. USE NATURAL MATERIALS
Since the aim is to bring us closer to nature, let’s go for natural materials in the finishes and the decoration. Still lifes on the walls and, for the floor, wood, natural fibres, stone, flowers, fruit and so on help us create and define the different areas — and using and maintaining them keeps everything in good condition over a long period.
2. SHADE
Having shade outdoors is essential if we’re to live in those spaces as well as possible, and to protect us from the hot sun day to day. A parasol is very useful on small balconies, but if you have a larger terrace we can go for a pergola with an awning that opens and closes as needed, or a simple wicker canopy, which never fails — and with it we get a very pleasant space.
3. TAKE TEXTILES OUTDOORS
Putting a rug on your balcony may seem inappropriate, especially if the weather turns wet, but it’s a detail that will make the space more comfortable. Blankets and cushions are also useful outdoors, so we can be more comfortable over a glass of wine on a cool summer evening. For these details you only need to bear the materials in mind when you buy. Preferably use materials that are easy to clean, waterproof and sun-resistant.
4. USE PLANTS
Terraces and plants are very close friends. Depending on the space, we can fill it with pots holding plants of different sizes and families; or, if we don’t have much room, we can go for vertical gardens, which never fail. Bringing greenery into the home gives us energy and adds privacy, depending on how we use it and on our needs or priorities. If the views from your balcony aren’t the best, plants can solve that. If we have a large, open space, we can use plants to form a canopy, which is the best option since they’ll cast shade and add comfort.
5. LIGHTING
Light sources outdoors take on an essential role: as well as letting us enjoy the space once night falls, they create and distinguish the different areas. Hanging solar lights absorb sunlight during the day, and string lights or candles are details that stand out and help create a unique atmosphere. We hope you find it useful.
!! Lets work !!