With summer in full swing, it’s time to throw open the doors and reclaim our open spaces. This summer, spend a little less time inside and transform your outdoor area into your own personal retreat. Bright colorful accents, solid furniture and warm lighting translate into warmth and happiness. A little imagination and vision is all that you need to have an outdoor living space that will be the envy of your neighbors.

Here are a few creative ideas that will transform your outdoor area into a great living space for the summer:

• Color: One of the simplest ways to add color to your outdoor living space is with flowers. Plant flowers along walkways, or scatter them around the yard wherever a little color is needed. Another great way to brighten up your outdoor area is with brightly colored accents such as throw pillows, place mats, or rugs. You can even give your existing furniture a face lift by applying a fresh coat of your favorite paint color – just be sure not to limit yourself to only black or white.
• Furniture: When selecting outdoor furniture, the size of the patio should dictate the size of your furniture. The bigger the patio, the more furniture and the smaller the patio, the less furniture you should have. A good rule of thumb is to have enough seating for at least 4-6 guests at a time. After you determine the furniture that is appropriate for your outdoor space, you can select pieces that are different sizes to add variety, or you can mix and match different types of furniture (i.e. wicker, wood, metal).
• Decorative Elements: Set the mood of your patio by adding other elements that bring a personalized touch to your outdoor living space. An outdoor rug can add charm and texture while also defining space. Mason jars are cheap and can be filled with sea shells, pine cones, or candles. Water adds the element of tranquility with a small fountain or bird feeder.

By decorating your outdoor area, you can create a space where you can entertain friends and family, or simply curl up on a Sunday afternoon with a good book.