Happy Monday... with Outdoor Beauty!

 

"Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves."  James M. Barrie

Hello again and Happy Monday! What a lovely quote to start our week off with...and so true too. May we all bring some sunshine into the lives of others each and every day!

Speaking of sunshine...of another kind, of course...because of the wonderful weather we seem to be having right now (in N.C. anyway!), I thought we'd look at some outdoor living inspirations.  It really is time to start thinking and planning for how you will be using your outdoor spaces this Spring and Summer. It is an extension of your indoor living space and should not be overlooked. It is possible to make these areas (around back and the front porch) look and feel like a "haven" surrounded by nature itself. 

No matter what your style, you can get a few ideas of inspiration from these pictures.  Don't be afraid to use a blend of different styles and types of furnishings outside.  You can mix iron, wood, wicker, etc....and keep those color themes flowing outside just like you would inside. If you prefer neutrals on your furniture...that's OK, just add some zing by adding some mood lifting color. You will be amazed  at the results you will have just by giving a little T.L.C. to these sometimes overlooked areas just outside your home.   

This just looks and feels like a "happy" place, doesn't it?

Letting nature take over is artwork and a backdrop on it's on here!

Notice the wicker used with metal here - great outdoor color scheme too! The blues even tie in the pool.

Ah...a tropical breeze! Take me here!

Oversized pillows do wonders for neutral furnishings.

Afternoon siesta?  I believe I will.

Who wouldn't enjoy a nice afternoon on this cheerful porch?  Talk about "mixing it up"...here's a variety of furniture pieces and even layered rugs... topped with lots of different pillows.  Love it!

Again, think how the space will be used....for dining too?  This outdoor space looks like it is really a "room".

If this were mine, I'd spend all my time here!

What a lovely and simple setting for an afternoon tea!

This design would be easy to duplicate, in any color.

A creative covering! This is work by Elsa Soyars, an interior designer born in Portugal. Most of her work is tranquil and calm, yet elegant and refined.

I am really lovin' this outdoor space!  Definitely feels like an extension of the inside.

OK, I must admit...we don't have a cooking area like this, but my husband really wants one! He loves to grill (or cook just about anything) and I do believe if we had this lovely addition I WOULD NEVER HAVE TO COOK AGAIN! (What am I waiting on, right?) 

I love this cottage style and the "mix" of wood and iron along with lots of flowers and...that chandelier!

Now this one, even I can't imagine, but it is lovely and serene!

Well, for those that know me...this just may be one of  my "faves"!  Do you know why? Yes, look at that VIEW...that's why! The owners of this eclectic Myrtle Beach home were featured in Grand Strand Magazine.  They live here year-round, but still wanted to have a vacation "vibe". The added touches of blue in this setting brings the ocean right up close and personal. Compliments of Roberts Erickson Design (and this is their personal home). 

Creative and fun!

So by all means...start thinking about how you would like to enjoy your outdoor areas.  What colors do you like? Make a plan and get started.  Start with the basic furniture (sofa, chairs, dining table) and then add in accent tables where you can. But don't stop there...you need some "layers" in the luxury...table linens, pillows, greenery, flowers, and even a few unusual accessories to throw in your personality. Be sure to mix it up a bit and "pop" some fun colors to enjoy while you are relaxing (or entertaining) in your new, cozy outside haven!!  It's just that...YOUR haven, so have fun and enjoy letting your personality unfold right before your very own eyes.  

Even though it's Monday....I hope you'll make it a "Simply Irresistible" one!  Ta-Ta, dear readers, and thank you for stopping by!

Photo credits: At Home in Arkansas, Roberts Erickson Designs, GCI Design, Traditional Home, Coastal Living, Better Homes and Garden, Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Unknown Source.

*I TRY TO CREDIT ALL IMAGES, IF THERE ARE ANY PHOTOS OR IMAGES HERE THAT ARE NOT CREDITED CORRECTLY OR YOU WISH THEM TO BE REMOVED, PLEASE LET ME KNOW AND I WILL GLADLY OBLIGE. THEY ARE BEING USED HERE FOR THE SOLE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING INTERIOR DESIGN. THANK YOU!