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HOW TO DESIGN AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE BASED ON YOUR PERSONAL STYLE

There are so many reasons to love the outdoors. Fresh air, sunshine and time spent in nature repeatedly prove value by lowering stress levels, enhancing moods and promoting healthy lifestyles. Want to bring more of the outdoors into your daily life? Start by creating an outdoor living area that matches your personal style and addresses your functional needs.

In this article, we’ll give you tips and ideas for designing an outdoor living room that you’ll love based on your backyard style, choosing the elements that will help you connect with nature, find peace and relaxation and expand the living area of your home. Before we begin, take our backyard style quiz, then match your style with the outdoor living room ideas below!

Let’s start with swimming pool styles and design ideas.

Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs

Enhance the appeal of your backyard by installing a swimming pool and hot tub. Pools and spas are the perfect additions to your outdoor living space because they are both beautiful and functional. With a backyard pool, you can spend hours lounging poolside, working on your tan and soaking in Vitamin D. Or if you’re an early bird, get your blood flowing before work by hopping in the pool for a few laps. Whatever your lifestyle may be, swimming pools and hot tubs help you spend more time in the great outdoors.

Check out these swimming pool design ideas:

SWIMMING POOLS AND HOT TUBS

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretLarge pool with dazzling LED lightsEntertain at night
ClassicRectangle pool with blue finish and light hardscapesSubtle, clean appearance
Deep BlueFree form pool with sea life mosaics and dark blue finishExudes sea life, deep water
GlamGrecian pool with reflective finish and raised spaHigh-end style with sparkle
GrottoFree form pool with rock grottoHaven for mermaids
Kid FriendlyPool with slides and jumping rocksAll about fun and play
ModernInfinity edge pool with mirror-like surfaceAngular shapes and metallic finishes
NaturalFree form pool with green finishResembles a naturally occurring waterbody
RusticFree form pool with stone raised bond beam wallStructured with a touch of ruggedness
World TravelGeometric pool with travel-inspired tilesWorldly with international flair
NPT StoneScapes Black Pool Finish, Natural Stone Coping

Rectangular pool with NPT StoneScapes Black pool finish, natural stone coping, stamped concrete decking, raised spa and pergola combines Classic and Rustic styles.

Water Features

Looking for the perfect enhancement for your pool? Swimming pool water features like deck jets, bubblers and waterfalls add movement and soothing sounds to your backyard. Some water features enhance the pool experience, providing shade (grottos), beauty (beach entries) and fun (waterslides).

Ready to find a water feature that amplifies your backyard style? Check out these water feature ideas:

SWIMMING POOL WATER FEATURE IDEAS

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretFountainsAdds excitement to your backyard
ClassicDeck jetsThe perfect pool enhancer
Deep BlueBubblersBubbles up like an underwater volcano
GlamRain curtainCreates a wall of sparkle
GrottoGrottoPerfect place for storing treasure
Kid FriendlyWater slideEndless entertainment for the kids
ModernSheer descentsSleek and stylish
NaturalWaterfallReplicates a woodland waterfall
RusticCopper water bowlsThis metal looks perfect in rustic backyards
World TravelSwimming pool sconceLion heads, gargoyles and filigree are some options
Water Features Cascade Into The Pool

Sheer descent water features cascade into the pool below.

Pool Floats and Toys

Pool floats make the perfect place to enjoy your backyard. Take in the beautiful views, splash around when you get too hot and soak up the sun on your favorite inflatable. Did you know that there are pool floats in almost every shape imaginable? Think of your favorite animal, food or plant and we bet you’ll find a pool float of its kind.

Here are some pool floats that will accent your backyard style:

POOL FLOAT STYLES

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretFloating canopyBring the drama and protect yourself from sun damage
ClassicShell floatThe world is your oyster!
Deep BlueSea turtle floatSwim with the fishes
GlamSwan floatExude elegance
GrottoMermaid floatBecome a magical mermaid
Kid FriendlyUnicorn sprinklerIncrease outdoor playtime!
ModernInflatable loungerSit back and relax in style
NaturalCactus floatPlant-inspired
RusticLog raft pool floatShowcase your adventurous spirit
World TravelPrivate jet floatEmbrace the jet set lifestyle
Giant Swan Inflatable Pool Float

Pool floats come in all shapes and sizes, like this giant swan inflatable.

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor living furniture may be the most important part of designing your backyard, defining your style and providing comfort. Make sure to choose furniture that is weather-resistant and suits your taste. For example, if your space has a bohemian feel, search for a woven hammock. If you want a chair to curl up in and get lost in a book, consider a fluffy and comfy papasan chair.

Here are some other outdoor living furniture ideas:

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretOutdoor couchEntertainment zone
ClassicAdirondack chairsTraditional pool style
Deep BlueSwim up barSpend as much time in water as possible!
GlamChaise loungeElegant and sophisticated
GrottoDaybedHideout to take in the views
Kid FriendlyPorch swingLulls you into relaxation
ModernLedge LoungersCurvy and sleek
NaturalWoven hammockGives a bohemian touch
RusticPicnic tableReclaimed wood adds rugged style
World TravelBistro tableWrought iron gives an old-world feel
Caged Daybed, Outdoor Living

Bright pillows enhance the tropical feel of this caged daybed.

Backyard Wicker Chairs

Wicker chairs with coordinating end tables give a rustic cottage feel to this backyard.

Outdoor Décor

Outdoor décor is what separates a backyard from a fun outdoor living room. The décor you choose sets the tone for your space, enhancing the feel of your backyard, whether that is cozy, funky, glam or sophisticated.

Decorating is one of the most fun parts of designing your outdoor living area because of the freedom to choose what you want and find items that express your personality. We recommended sifting through your garage to find old items to upcycle, visiting craft fairs for local art and shopping thrift stores for one-of-a-kind items.

Below we outline some outdoor décor ideas based on different backyard styles.

OUTDOOR HOME DÉCOR

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretOutdoor movie projectorParty time! Show movies or music videos
ClassicBlue and white striped umbrellaNautical décor fits the classic color palette
Deep BlueSeashells and starfishDecorate walls and fences
GlamSparkly candle votivesGlitter décor brings glitz and glam
GrottoRock waterfallBring a cavernous feel with large rocks
Kid FriendlyHand-painted birdhousesPaint together using the brightest colors you can find!
ModernSculptureSpotlights 3D art in your backyard
NaturalBamboo outdoor rugOrganic material for natural appeal
RusticWooden lanternsFarmhouse style with a timeless feel
World TravelMandalasCelebrates the beauty of international cultures
Paint Birdhouses, Backyard Ideas

Looking for a fun family activity? Paint birdhouses together and display them in your backyard.

Rustic Wooden Lanterns

These rustic wooden lanterns are given a modern metallic touch.

Outdoor Grills and Kitchens

One of the best ways to expand your living space is to create an outdoor kitchen and dining room. In addition to increasing cooking space, outdoor cooking areas also allow you to spend more time outdoors, entertaining guests or simply enjoying the fresh air.

Design your outdoor grilling area to be as simple or complex as you want. Just make sure it addresses your functional needs as well as your aesthetic. For example, if you love cooking, maybe you need counter space for prep or refrigerated storage drawers. If gathering for a weekly pizza night is your family’s tradition, consider an outdoor pizza oven. Want an outdoor bar? Search for models geared towards entertaining. Whatever your backyard needs, there is an outdoor kitchen or grill that suits them.

Today’s kitchen offerings are available in different materials, sizes and shapes. Here are a few ideas based on different backyard styles:

OUTDOOR GRILL AREA IDEAS

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretBull Entertainer’s BarPerfect for parties
ClassicSaber Stainless Gas GrillA solid, beautiful choice
Deep BlueBull BBQ Power QRefrigerator fits cold waters!
GlamBull Gourmet QBuilt-in umbrella – no sunburn!
GrottoGray ledger stone Bull BBQGray stone enhances rocky, grotto feel
Kid FriendlyBull Gas Fired Pizza OvenPizza parties just got a lot more fun
ModernSaber Stainless Gas GrillSleek, metallic grill
NaturalPrimo Oval XL 400 in Teak TableMade using real teak wood
RusticLouisiana Grills Vertical SmokerSmoker uses wood pellets for enhanced flavor
World TravelIcon 100 Series OrangeFunky color and small size fits cool, daring backyards
Bull BBQ Island, Outdoor cooking

This Bull BBQ Island model has a refrigerator and plenty of counter space for outdoor cooking.

Grilled Margherita Pizza

Have you ever tried a grilled pizza? This Margherita grilled pizza looks delectable.

Outdoor Firepits and Fireplaces

Fire is a unifying element, drawing humans together since the Stone Age. In addition to outdoor lighting, fire features also serve as outdoor heaters, extending the usable hours of your backyard. Make your backyard the gathering place for friends and family by designing an outdoor firepit or fireplace.

Fire pits are available in many styles, materials and colors. For example, did you know you can select brightly colored glass pieces for your fire pit interior? This creates an amazing colorful effect in your backyard. For a more rustic look, consider using pavers, brick or stone on the exterior and wood for the interior. You can cook small items like s’mores or hot dogs over a fire pit, but for more advanced outdoor cooking, consider a fireplace.

Fireplaces are vertical fire structures and are usually larger than fire pits, offering greater warmth and sometimes a place to cook (look for fireplace pizza ovens)! Outdoor fireplaces are most commonly designed using stone or brick, but modern contemporary models incorporate concrete and metal.

Which fire feature is right for your backyard? Here are somefireplace and fire pit ideas for outdoor living:

FIRE PITS AND FIREPLACES

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretColorful glassBrightly colored glass glistens at night
ClassicPaver fireplaceA traditional look with great results
Deep BlueFire and water bowlsCombines fire and water for a cool effect
GlamFire stripAdds a touch of luxury
GrottoStone fire pitCreate a cave-like natural stone pit
Kid FriendlyFire globesChoose a mythical or wildlife scene
ModernConcrete fire pitGray material looks contemporary
NaturalInground fire pitCreate using stones, bricks or shells!
RusticBrick fire pitRed brick gives a rustic touch
World TravelCement fireplaceGives a high-end ski resort feel
Belgard Brighton ™ Series Fireplace with wood boxes

Belgard Brighton ™ Series Fireplace with wood boxes. Decking is Mega Arbel Pavers.

Cement Fire Pit with Stone & Blue Furniture

Cement fire pit with stone interior and light blue furniture exude contemporary beauty.

Outdoor Lighting

Now that you’ve filled your outdoor living area with awesome features like furniture, décor and fire features, it’s time to illuminate your design for all to see! Outdoor lighting is super important when designing your outdoor living room because in addition to looks, it also provides safety. Use outdoor lighting to draw attention to walkways, pool areas and more.

Outdoor lighting is key to your backyard, but with so many styles and options, how will you choose? Below we list different styles of lighting options to help you find one that suits you.

OUTDOOR LIGHTING IDEAS

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretCurtain lightsCreate a dramatic backyard stage!
ClassicOutdoor wall sconceSimple and sophisticated
Deep BluePool interior lightsHighlight your pool’s finish and shape
GlamOutdoor string lightsTwinkling resembles sparkles and glitter
GrottoOutdoor spotlightsDraw attention to your backyard’s rocky textures
Kid FriendlyRope lightsForm rope lights into cool shapes
ModernMetal sconcesSelect understated sconces with metallic finishes
NaturalSolar lightsPowered by the sun
RusticMason jar lanternsUpcycle farmhouse-friendly mason jars
World TravelTiki torchesTransport yourself to a luxury beach destination
Backyard Dainty String Lights

Dainty string lights add a delicate, elegant touch to your backyard.

Backyard Eco-Friendly Solar Lights

Conserve energy with eco-friendly solar lights.

Decks and Patios

Have you thought about the hardscapes you’ll use in your backyard? Hardscapes are the hard materials in your backyard, for example decking and patios. There are different types of hardscapes to choose from, from natural stone like travertine and flagstone to manufactured options like concrete pavers and bricks.

Each material has its benefits, unique qualities and availability that you must consider before selecting the right one for your backyard. Here are some samples of hardscapes you can incorporate into your outdoor living room:

DECKING AND PATIOS

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretDecorative concretePour into a special shape for drama
ClassicTravertineChoose a light-colored travertine, like Ivory
Deep BluePorcelain paversGray porcelain pavers resemble sandy beaches
GlamMarbleA high-end, luxurious selection
GrottoConcrete paversConcrete pavers have fantastic texture and color
Kid FriendlyComposite deckingSafe for kids and easy maintenance
ModernWoodWood, especially gray, looks contemporary
NaturalGrassGrassy lawns enhance Zen atmospheres
RusticFlagstoneFlagstone is dimensional and colorful
World TravelBrickProduces an old-world feel
Wooden Deck Ideas for Backyard

Wood decks are modern and functional.

Shade Structures

If having fun in the sun is the goal of your backyard, you’ll want to consider adding a shade structure or two to make sure you’re playing safely. Too much time in the sun without protection spells trouble, so take a water break every now and then to unwind under a beautiful pergola or cuddle up under the shade of a cabana.

The type of shade structure you choose should fit with the overall style of your backyard so that it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. Use this chart to get inspired to find the perfect shade structure for your outdoor living area.

SHADE STRUCTURES

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretPool houseGives guests a changing + lounging area
ClassicGazeboTraditional garden style
Deep BlueLounger with canopyKick back by the water all day
GlamCabanaAttach flowy, sheer curtains for more glam
GrottoPatio umbrellaSelect purple, blue or green for a mermaid feel!
Kid FriendlyAwningGather kids under the awning for snacks
ModernShade sailWhite shade sails look modern and artsy
NaturalArborGrow vines up the sides
RusticPergolaChoose a natural wood model
World TravelPalapaThatched huts instantly transport you abroad
Tropical Island with Thatched Palapa

Transport yourself to a tropical island with this thatched palapa.

Grow Star Jasmine Up the Sides and Top, Arbor for a Secret-Garden

Grow Star Jasmine up the sides and top of your arbor for a secret-garden feel.

Gardens and Landscaping

Creating a garden is one of the most satisfying outdoor activities you can do. Nurturing plants to adulthood is a peaceful task that builds patience and kindness and amplifies the beauty of your backyard. When designing the landscaping for your outdoor living space, think about the style you’d like to convey. Additionally, consider your environment, as plants thrive under certain conditions.

If you’re looking for some gardening and landscaping ideas, check out this chart matching backyard styles to complementary plants and flowers:

GARDENS & LANDSCAPING

StyleDesign IdeaPurpose
CabaretMoonflowersBlooms at night
ClassicMountain LaurelForms privacy hedges
Deep BlueBlue HydrangeasFlowers form large round clusters
GlamGardeniasFabulous scent
GrottoPalm TreesCreates a tropical feel
Kid FriendlyHerb GardenTeaches kids how to grow and care for plants
ModernSucculentsProvides greenery and cool shapes
NaturalXeriscapeLandscape philosophy that uses native flowers, little water
RusticOrnamental GrassesLooks unique and rugged
World TravelHibiscusTransports you to a tropical beach
Shrubberies and Hedges, Backyard Manicured Appearance

Shrubberies and hedges form privacy screens and give your backyard a manicured appearance.

Bench, Lush Backyard Features

This lush backyard features a bench for taking in the surrounding beauty.

Backyard Yellow and Pink Flowers

Backyard yellow and pink flowers scream “Summer!”

Embrace the Outdoor Lifestyle

The key to outdoor living space design is creating a place that makes you feel good. Your pool, landscaping, patio furniture and more help set the tone of your backyard, so we hope you use these ideas as inspiration for creating an outdoor living room that fits your needs and style.

For more outdoor living ideas, check out our Pinterest board.

Happy outdoor living!

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