8 Dreamy Outdoor Spaces to Inspire your Next Project

It is that time of year when I am attempting to spruce up my outdoor space. We are so fortunate that the former owners created such inviting outdoor spaces. All we needed to do was add our own spin. If you are planning an outdoor living space project, or you are just looking for inspiration, let’s take a look at 8 dreamy outdoor spaces to inspire your next project.

I will be doing a post soon on my small updates. In the meantime you might enjoy my post How to Create an Outdoor Space Your Guests will Never Want to Leave, and How to Make the Most of your Patio Space.

8 Dreamy Outdoor Spaces to Inspire your Next Project

The perfect outdoor living space depends on your personal style and how you plan to use it, but there are some general elements that can make it more inviting and functional. In my book there are three simple elements that are important:

Function

By being creative, even in a small outdoor space, you can create an outdoor oasis. Whether you choose gravel, pavers, brick, or you are dealing with what you have, carve out a space for a an outdoor dining space and comfortable seating. If it is hot create some shade with a pergola or umbrellas. Of course if you space is vast you can create a dining area, an outdoor kitchen with grill, an outdoor fireplace, fire pit area and more.

This beautiful fire pit area designed by Frank Ponterio and photographed by Eric Piasecki in House Beautiful on the shores of Lake Michigan couldn’t be more inviting.

M James Design Group created a small oasis on this Houston balcony (photography Douglas Friedman). This small but mighty space has everything you could find in a much larger space. I could live in an apartment with an eden like this.

This fabulous patio designed by Beth Webb and photographed by Lisa Romerain is so inviting. Beth has an incredible knack for using texture and natural elements to create sophisticated yet serene spaces.

Comfort

Select your patio furniture and furnishings carefully. You want your outdoor living area to be as comfortable and durable as possible. Blankets and throws can add warmth on a cool evening. Comfortable lounge seating with cushy throw pillows are welcome at the end of a busy day.

This beautiful Serenbe showhouse porch by Serenbe Design Build and photographed by Jeff Herr packs a lot of punch in a small space. The color scheme reflects the natural surroundings rather than competing.

This Beth Webb designed patio, photographed by Lisa Romerain has long been a personal favorite of mine. The simple color scheme allows the textural surfaces to shine.

Ambiance

This one is a big one for me I admit. String lights, lanterns, candles or solar lights can create a magical atmosphere in the evening. Plants add color, life, and privacy to your outdoor space. Choose plants that are native to your climate and that require minimal maintenance. The sound of bubbling water can be very relaxing. A small fountain or birdbath can add a touch of tranquility to your space.

This beautiful porch by  Brandon Ingram and Ashley Gilbreath (photographed by Jeff Herr) proves a small space can have a large impact.

This intimate guest patio by Jeremiah Brent for House Beautiful (photographed by Shade Degges) serves as inspiration for me. We have a couple of guest patios in our home that could use a little love.

This cozy porch with it’s blue and white pillows and cozy furniture by DWH Interiors (photographed by  David Christensen is large on comfort.

Further Reading:

House Beautiful’s Ten Charming Terrace Gardens to Inspire Your Outdoor Space

Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Outdoor Rooms

If you are planning a large or small outdoor space, I hope this post provided some inspiration. Thank you for reading 8 Dreamy Outdoor Spaces to Inspire your Next Project. You might also enjoy my post 10 Imaginative Ways to Maximize Space and Bring Life to a Small Garden.