Outdoor Living Space by Darin Chamberlin

When the temperature is just right, and the neighborhood is quiet, but you can just hear a breeze rustling the leaves of the trees — those are the days when it’s a joy to be outside. Wouldn’t it be great to have a comfy indoor/outdoor space to sit in and enjoy those days?

An indoor/outdoor space is one that redefines the boundary between inside your home and out. It could be a fully functional outdoor kitchen, a sunroom, or anything else that allows you to experience the outdoors without giving up homey comforts.

Outdoor Living Spaces with Indoor Comfort

Indoor/Outdoor living space design in Portland OR

If you want your space to be completely outside in the open air, consider a fully furnished patio or even an outdoor kitchen to take your evening cookouts to the next level.

The key to these spaces is comfort. The little details can make all the difference. Here are a few ideas:

  • Invest in really comfortable outdoor furniture and maybe even some blankets and throw pillows.
  • Lighting is important in the evenings. Lamps, candles, and twinkle lights create the perfect atmosphere.
  • If you’re creating a cooking area, it’s good to add some counter space next to your stove or grill.
  • A fire pit or outdoor heater will keep you cozy in cooler months as well.
  • You might even consider a roof extension or some other overhead covering so you can use your space even in the rain.

Indoor/Outdoor Rooms

This other type of indoor/outdoor space is actually part of your home, as an addition or a remodel of an existing room. These rooms gently smooth the transition from outside to inside, creating a fresh, airy, free-flowing feel. A sunroom is a great example, but it could just as easily be your living room, dining room, or even bedroom.

The key to these spaces is adjustability. You want to be able to control the amount of privacy, light, and airflow. Here’s how to do it:

Louvered windows

A louvered (a.k.a. jalousie) window has parallel slats that can be closed or opened. This makes them perfect for any room where you want the option of privacy and darkness.

Folding doors

Living Rooms with Folding Doors in Portland OR

Folding doors offer the ultimate in adaptability and temperature control. They allow you to turn two separate spaces into one and then back again in a matter of seconds. Plus, they’re a great option if you like hosting large get-togethers and want plenty of space for people to roam and mingle.

Floor-to-ceiling curtains

Floor-to-ceiling curtains–or even blackout curtains–are a perfect solution for a bedroom or any other space where you want glass walls or large windows but you also need control over lighting and privacy. If you want to sleep in late on a summer weekend, good curtains can keep your room nice and dark through the morning. You simply have to throw them back to start your day with a bright, beautiful view.

Decorating for Indoor/Outdoor Living Spaces

Indoor/outdoor living spaces are some of the most fun to design and decorate. The most important thing is to include elements that will make you and your family really enjoy spending time there. You might also think about incorporating elements (like outdoor heaters) that allow you to use the space comfortably even when summer is over.

Square Deal Remodeling Knows Indoor/Outdoor Spaces in Portland, OR

More specifically, we know how to work with you to build your space the way you want it. Whether you’re interested in one of the ideas in this post or something different, we can help you bring it to life. Contact us today to get started.