May 25, 2013

Autumn Outdoor Living | Patio Heater and Light

patio heater and light | outdoor livingOutdoor living continues to be a popular pastime for most people. Our homes reflect this trend as we are seeing larger outdoor entertaining spaces that often include full kitchens and separate seating areas. The decorating needs of these spaces are similar to decorating the interior of your home. You will need comfortable seating and adequate lighting and heat.

As the seasons change even the warmest areas can get a bit chilly in the evening. One way to insure the comfort of you and your guests is through the use of a Patio Heater. These are free standing, mobile units that use a propane tank just like your barbecue. They are simple to light, cost efficient and offer a clean and non-toxic source of heat. There are several finishes available that include stainless, Bronze and even wicker.

As autumn approaches it is still possible to enjoy outdoor living. Perhaps you are planning an outdoor wedding or are lucky enough to live in a climate that allows you to enjoy holiday meals outdoors. Whatever the reason, you will need lighting. There are lamps made specifically for the outdoors but these require electrical outlets. If being “green” is important to you, consider using candlelight. It is much less expensive and prettier, too. Hanging Outdoor Lanterns from the trees or patio cover will add a romantic feel to any space. In these instances you may want to use battery operated candles for safety reasons. Placing glass hurricanes on tabletops is always a good idea. But consider using these as lighting for outdoor steps or pathways. Planting a solar powered light fixture inside a planter will add a glow to your potted plants and use zero energy.

As summer ends and fall arrives, simply adding a few comfort features such as lighting and heat will allow you to enjoy the outdoors for several more weeks.

Outdoor Living | FIRE UP THE ISLAND GRILL

island grill | outdoor livingOutdoor living is a pleasure enjoyed year round by those fortunate to live in the tropical and temperate climates like South Florida, Southern California, Hawaii and Arizona in particular, but there’s no reason why you can’t create a beautiful outdoor living area anywhere in the country regardless of the climate. Now that Spring is upon us, this is the perfect time to clean out that porch, paint the patio and plant beautiful foliage to make your yard a showplace – you’re going to do that anyway, right! Forget about the hum drum scene that you repeat year after year…. While we are all feeling the money crunch many of us won’t be taking that tropical vacation we so long for… you know the one where you sit at the sand bar with the gentle breezes blowing as you sip your tropical drink and laugh the day away… Well, take it a step further… instead of dreaming about the turquoise blue water and white sand of a secluded tropical isle why not transform your porch or back yard into a beautiful and relaxing ISLAND GRILL… You could even incorporate a detached garage…

So crank up the Jimmy Buffett, plant some potted palms & hibiscus, throw down some glistening white sand (you won’t have to mow the grass) add a few tiki torches and mix that margarita… Well, that’s just a start. The rest is simple and cost effective….

You probably already have a grill… create a focal point & for about a $100 worth of bead board (less than all that grass seed and fertilizer) you can easily build a simple wooden bar surrounding the grill on three sides add a few wooden stools from the local consignment shop or unfinished shop…. Don’t forget the plastic chairs from the local hardware store for $10 – just so you can sit back with your toes in the sand while the “cook” fires up the grill and blends your favorite concoction. Oh yeah, grab those multi color LED Christmas lights and wind them through the trees… Voila invite the neighbors and enjoy. If you are fortunate enough to have a pool, you can float candles at night for a romantic atmosphere…

For plans to build a simple tiki bar contact me @DesignSecrets on Twitter.