Tips for Creating an Outdoor Room

Make the most of your space with an inviting outdoor oasis.    By Fred Albert

If you have a yard, a rooftop deck or even a small patio, it's easy to create an outdoor room. Here are some simple steps to help you make the most of your space:

1. Determine how you ideally want to use the outdoor space. Think of how you use the area now and
   fantasize about how you might enjoy it in the future.
2. Gather ideas and create a scrapbook. To help create the ideal spot, it's a good idea to learn how others have succeeded. Clip all the pictures you like and put them into a notebook.
3. Research the products. Information about outdoor fireplaces, firepits, barbecues, kitchens, patio furniture and much more is available by visiting or contacting outdoor room product manufacturers.
4. Review the style of your house. It's important to know your home's architectural style when creating an outdoor room space. There are products available for every taste and style.
5. Draw a plan. The best way to reach your end result is to sketch out your wish list. Don't worry about your sketches being perfect, it's the general idea that counts!
6. Consider fire, food and water. These are the key elements to an "official" outdoor room. Add the fireplace as the central focal point and blend in the cooking station and pond or other water features.
7. Get a retailer partner. Take your scrapbook and sketch to a specialty retailer that sells hearth, barbecue and patio products. A specialty retailer can help you determine the materials and outdoor room products available in your area and help you formalize your ideas.
8. Build the space. Start by creating the foundation, then add a fireplace, kitchen and eating area. It's also a good idea to consider multiple conversation areas.
9. Add the furnishings. Select comfortable and lush pieces of patio furniture that call out for people to lounge for an extended period of time. No matter what your style, there is patio furniture to fit your needs.
10. Accessorize. Landscaping, patio heaters, outdoor speakers, potted plants and pillows are just a few of the elements that are available to decorate the outdoor space. The key to making the details work is to approach the project as if you are accessorizing an indoor room.
11. Add landscaping. A little greenery can go a long way. Add native plants to accentuate your space and
    create a lush oasis.
12. Consider lighting. To enhance the amount of time spent outdoors, consider lighting--whether for pathways, around pools, or to accentuate landscaping.
    
    
    Source: The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA).

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