Backyards... brilliant or boring?

Often times backyards are forgotten about or put on the back burner during a remodel or building process and are left empty, boring or disasterous. Does your backyard look something like this...

Backyard should be an extension of your interior. We spend so much time outside, especially here in Utah where we have such beautiful summers, we should be able to feel comfortable and proud of our backyards. What better backdrop to entertain in than nature? 

Just as in the interior of our home it is important to have designated areas in a backyard. Here are a few quick tips to creating a brilliant backyard of your own:

• Create groupings. Groupings are very important in a backyard space. Just dropping in a lounge chair and an outdoor dining table, especially when dealing with large backyards, can cause them to get lost in the space. By creating small groupings of furniture pieces you anchor the space and make it more manageable and interesting and at the same time giving the backyard purpose.

• Choose pieces that compliment your natural settings instead of compete with it. You can use bright colors in your backyard but don't go overboard. Everything in bright colors can distract from your natural backdrop instead of enhance it. Use bright colors and patterns as accents, like in pillows, accessories, ottomans or chairs, while keeping your larger pieces in solids whether they be colored or neutral.

• Accessorize! Just as you would accessorize your interior, accessories in your outdoor space can enhance your design and make it more dimensional.

• Don't forget about lighting! Lighting in your outdoor space is so important! You can create different effects and atmospheres with lighting that can create a mood or feeling you want to achieve for you and your guests. Think outside the box when it comes to lighting. There are SO MANY options now for outdoor lighting, so don't get stuck with tiki torches... Use candles, pendants, scones and spot / accent lighting, etc. to get the look your want.

Love all these ideas but need help making your plans reality? Set-up and appointment with one of our talented designers today and get started on making your outdoor space fabulous!

*Furniture photos courtesy of Gloster. Stop by your local San Francisco Design to see the complete collection from Gloster and samples. Many pieces are part of the quick ship program and can still be ordered before summer ends but hurry in!