In English, the trend is called "outdoor living", which could be translated as "the art of living outside". Today, the yard has become a real living area, and we want to find the same comfort there as inside. Here are the 10 essentials for an ideal outdoor layout in 2023. Let summer arrive!
In the late 2000s, a new wind from California blew through outdoor design in North America. Previously, this design consisted of a small patio of gray square slabs on which a dining table and a few white PVC chairs were installed. Two lounge chairs were added on a patch of grass in the sun, and it was paradise!
But people on the American West Coast had the good idea to refine the concept, creating more sophisticated furniture, weatherproof and, above all, with a look reminiscent of our interiors. Year after year, new products have appeared and, with the pandemic, the craze for outdoor privacy has literally exploded.
Of course, not everyone has the same budget and space... But, on different scales, the concept remains the same: making the exterior an extension of the interior, an additional "room" that is well-appointed and comfortable.
Here are my 10 essentials to really enjoy summer in 2023.
1 – Outdoor furniture worthy of the interior
Since the living and dining areas are the heart of your outdoor space, it’s important to give them the attention and budget they deserve. First, choose furniture that will last. That means? Opt for sturdy materials and neutral colours. As for materials – whether it’s different types of metal, synthetic materials or wood – they all have their pros and cons. So be sure to do your research when comparing options: what maintenance do they require, how weather-resistant are they, do they need to be stored in winter? And if they require cushions, ask yourself the same questions about them. As for style, the big trend is to match it to the style found in your home – the key to making your outdoor space a true extension of your interior.
Photo credit: Must
2 – Parasol, pergola, etc.: shade please
We love sunbathing… but all good baths must come to an end! To enjoy your little corner of paradise at any time of the day, it is essential to equip yourself with sunscreens – and I am not talking about sunscreen here. Those who have trees will probably want to arrange their living room and dining room in the shade during the hours when the sun is beating down. But other solutions exist: the parasol (traditional, tilting or offset), a garden shed (simply a roof on four legs), a pergola (some have adjustable slats), an awning (retractable or not), a stretched canvas (also called a sunshade tarp) or even a wooden structure on which you can climb a vine (hello country spirit!).
Photo credit: Pinterest
3 – A water point drips and drips!
To lower your body temperature, there’s nothing better than a water feature. Do you have plenty of space for a pool? Lucky you! Do you have less space? Google “pool shell” and you might be pleasantly surprised. Do you have even less space? The spa awaits you – summer and winter. Otherwise, opt for an outdoor shower or a misting system.
Photo credit: Bois Blanc Home
4 – A relaxation area for lazing around
Reading, meditating or doing nothing to the sound of cicadas: that's also what summer is all about. A deck chair (also known as a deckchair), a hanging chair, a hammock or a bean bag is enough to create the perfect relaxation area (adding a coffee table to put a mojito on is also a good idea). The watchword: comfort. It is therefore strongly recommended to go to the store to test different models. No compromise in this case: you should feel like you're on a cloud...
Photo credit: Simons
5 – Privacy screens = private space
For your outdoor space to be an extension of your indoor space, you need to find the same feeling of privacy there. Birds are welcome, but neighbors are a little less so. A fence is obviously a necessary first line of defense (check the municipal regulations first), but you can also limit certain areas using privacy panels. And why not combine business with pleasure by installing a green wall, which is increasingly trendy?
Photo credit: Jessica Sara Morris
6 – The essential BBQ
Small, medium or large; propane, natural gas or charcoal; with or without a side burner; etc., etc.: the question is not whether you need a BBQ, but which one is best for you. Pay special attention to its location, respecting the recommended clearance space to optimize air circulation and avoid fires. A shelter can also be very practical when a shower synchronizes with the cooking of a T-bone (it happens).
Photo credit: Pinterest
7 – Accessories for entertaining
One of the pleasures of summer is inviting family and friends to party in the yard. To improve the experience, a few investments are worth considering. For example, outdoor tableware made of melamine, plastic, metal or bamboo will save you from unpleasant accidents – and a lot of hassle. Serving trays will also save you from steps. A serving trolley (or bar cart) will have several uses, before, during and after the meal. Side tables will allow your guests to put their cocktails and appetizers on them. A small trash can and/or compost bin will be appreciated when it comes time to clear the table. And don't forget a water-repellent fabric tablecloth, for the glass of juice that Léon will undoubtedly spill...
Photo credit: Anthropologie
8 – Mood lighting
The sun may set late in the summer, but sometimes we want to make the fun last after dark. I’m a huge fan of candles, I love their romantic glow, but the wind can often make them difficult to manage. String lights, portable lamps, lanterns and LED, battery-powered or solar-powered candles: the mood lighting options have multiplied in recent years, and at very affordable prices. Some models even have a USB port or a built-in speaker!
Photo credit: Pinterest
9 – Vegetation (easy to maintain)
If the only vegetation in your yard is grass, you’re missing something. Add plants, preferably native species that are adapted to our climate and easier to maintain. Grow a clematis on the fence, plant perennials that will bloom year after year, grow a small vegetable garden that will taste like pride… Equipped with a drip irrigation system, you can sit back and watch them grow.
Photo credit: The Earth is a garden
10 – Other little extras
What could make your little piece of paradise even more heavenly? It could be a fountain, a fish pond, a patio heater, a fireplace (if your municipality allows it), a lawn carpet , speakers, a swing, bird feeders, a garden gnome… In short, all the little extras that make you happy. May the good weather be with you!
Photo credit: Anthropologie
Opening photo credit: Jardin de ville
Julie Deslauriers is an actress, stylist, interior design columnist and eco-friendly mom. You've probably seen her on Chambres en Ville or other shows? Alongside her acting career, Julie has developed another passion: interior design.
We are happy about our brand new editorial collaboration and her valuable advice. You can follow her on her Instagram feed @lejuliebazar .
Stay tuned for more decorating tips from Julie!
