Al Fresco Living: Your Ticket to the Good (Outdoor) Life
It is true that nature’s bounty doesn’t end at dirt and bugs; instead, it offers opportunities for fresh air, roasting marshmallows, and soaking up glorious sunshine – not unlike alfresco living – an appealing lifestyle concept that brings the outdoors in by blurring boundaries between indoors and out, making outdoor spaces as comfortable for living as any indoor space is.
Photo by Kate Tandy on Unsplash
The Charm of Alfresco Living
Alfresco living, is more than just a trend; it’s a lifestyle decision with its own set of charm. Alfresco living means making outdoor spaces part of your everyday living space for maximum pleasure and comfort. Imagine this: the comfort of your backyard, with a book, tea, birdsong, and you. Or even better: romantic dinner under the stars without needing reservations or worrying about what to wear! Alfresco living is about embracing the freedom and flexibility that comes from following the sun and stars; giving your life some extra breathing room. So are you ready to step outside? But before moving your sofa and coffee table outside, let’s delve deeper into creating that ideal alfresco living space from scratch.
Read: SIMPLE UPDATES TO MAKE ON YOUR HOME WHILE ON A BUDGET
Doing it All – From Scratch
So you want to enter the alfresco lifestyle but don’t know where to begin? Worry not; creating your alfresco oasis from scratch is simple. Here is our step-by-step guide on creating your very own open-air oasis!
- Step one of outdoor space design should always begin by identifying your space – this step acts like selecting a room layout indoors but involves fresh air and bird interference! From small balconies and mid-size patios to expansive lawns and spaces in between, identify what area needs transformation.
- After this, you need to determine its purpose. Is it meant as a peaceful area for reading and relaxation, a place for summer barbecues and gatherings, or even an area for your children to play in? Knowing how you plan on using your area will guide your choice of furniture, accessories, and layout choices.
- Furniture selection should include durable pieces that are both sturdy and waterproof; choose pieces that meet your style preferences such as nautical, boho, or modern minimalist themes to complete the look of your outdoor space. Remember that outdoor spaces are extensions of interior styles.
- At this point, let’s address flooring. To truly enjoy alfresco living, outdoor terracotta tiles can make an outdoor space feel Mediterranean! Sun-baked clay tiles like these make an excellent choice due to their high density and moisture resistance – plus, over time they develop an irresistibly rustic chic patina! However, remember these red beauties may become slippery when wet so it may be worthwhile considering or opting for anti-slip options as alfresco living should not involve slippery slipperiness!
- After that comes the fun part – accessorizing. Consider adding fairy lights for a soft warm glow, potted plants for some added greenery, and perhaps an outdoor rug to add comfort – your alfresco abode is now ready for its first sunset soiree!
But we aren’t finished yet: every story comes with its own warning; alfresco living is no different.
The Don’ts of Alfresco Living
As part of creating the ultimate alfresco living atmosphere, there are some pitfalls you should try and avoid.
- Most importantly, don’t overcrowd your space; that wrought-iron bistro set might look lovely, and who could resist adding life-sized gnome statues to their garden decor… but remember, relaxed outdoor living should not feel like yard sale shopping; let it all breathe freely in its space.
- Next, don’t overlook the weather. This goes beyond selecting weatherproof furniture; it means taking into account climate realities when planning outdoor living space. If you live in a sunbaked desert, a shade structure is absolutely essential; in a mosquito-ridden swamp area, some type of bug-zapping device might come in handy; rain could turn an alfresco dinner into a soggy sandwich affair in an instant!
- Keep up on maintenance. Outdoor spaces need regular upkeep to look their best; otherwise, that chic Spanish villa look can quickly degenerate into haunted-house territory. Keep your alfresco space clean, tidy, and ready for action.
- Never overlook lighting when designing an outdoor area. Without proper illumination, an otherwise beautiful design can quickly fade after sunset without adequate solar-powered garden lights, lanterns, or string lights to add ambiance and keep parties going well into the night.
Photo by Nick de Partee on Unsplash
Read: RELAXATION AS A STATE OF CONSCIOUSNESS
Conclusion: Breathe In, Chill Out
And there you have it; your guide to alfresco living! Remember it’s not about creating the ideal space; rather it should reflect you! So take some deep breaths of fresh air, unwind beneath an open sky, and enjoy life outdoors – are you ready to live alfresco?
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