Thoughts of Spring

If you're like me you are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Spring and warmer weather.  I am seriously getting ready because I'm already contemplating which fabric for some new outdoor cushions!  How's that for...ready!  I am SO ready.  Take a look...

Aren't these yummy fabrics...oh, and wait, there are more to choose from!

Here's a little closer look at one from above.  I couldn't resist showing you the details of it...cute, huh?

Here are a few that suit my taste...

So, what has YOU in the mood for Spring this week?  It won't be long now!!

Have a "Simply Irresistible" Day!

Image Credits:  Robert Allen 

*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!

"Softening" Your Outdoor Spaces

Since we've just finished a mini-series on "softening" your indoor table-tops...I thought we'd look at some ideas that "soften" your outdoor living spaces.  Have you even thought about whether or not your outdoor areas are "soft", cozy and inviting...or just "hard"?  Let's take a look at what I mean by this.

"Hard" outdoor spaces #1

#2

#3

As you can see from all three of these photos above...they have beautiful landscape design...but seem unfinished because they have no personality.  The "softening" of these areas is what makes the impact in spaces like these.  Nothing has been added to say "Welcome, come in and stay for awhile"! 

Now, let's take a look at some outdoor spaces that have had a little TLC and seem much more inviting.

Cushions, pillows, flowers, and greenery (even if the trees you use aren't the "real" thing)...these all help "soften" the look. 

Same here as well...but a rug is added in this one which definitely has the power of "softening" any hard surface area.

This homeowner went way out and added not only cushions, pillows and hanging baskets, but a skirted table....remember, fabric "softens"...so this is also another great way if you have a covered area. The added accessories sure have a way to give it the true personality of the homeowner, don't you think?  Can you tell how "soft" and inviting this spot is?  

I say...if you've got the space to add drapery panels...do it.  This not only gives you privacy and a little shade...but look at how cozy this spot is now.  I could visit here all day for sure! Want to join me?



See how even a tablecloth can soften it up a bit?  Oh, and you've got to love these chairs!  How different from the "norm". 

Even if you only have a dining space out there...be sure to add some comfy cushions, table-top accessories with flowers, and some greenery (potted tree behind table used here) which will bring a little nature into the space. 

A few others that ought to inspire you...

If you don't do any of this...well, it will leave you with just hard surface items...table and chairs...and NO "softening" for that inviting feeling.  Think of your outdoor spaces as you would the rooms inside your home and decorate them!  Be sure not to ignore these spaces this summer...get your colors planned out, then find the items you'd like to see in this space....and go for it!  You will be amazed at the transformation and I bet it will be a spot that you'll want to come settle into after a long days work. Try it and see!

               Bold and Beautiful Cushions

               

                                                

Multi-Color Striped Rug

                                         Ric-Rac Napkins                            

    

      

     Flutter Placemats

     

       Bird Dinnerware

                

  Potted Boxwood Topiaries      

       

Red Peony in Vintage Bottle

 

As you can see...they have lots of great items that you can choose from to help transform your outdoor space...in any color!  So have fun...be creative...and then enjoy your new outdoor abode this summer!

Have a blessed and "Simply Irresistible" Day!

Photo Credits:  Coastal Living, Greenspire Landscaping, Unknown, Colorado Landscape, Seasonal Living, Southern Living, Martha Stewart, Country Living,  John Derian, House Beautiful, Pottery Barn, Pier 1

*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!

Outdoor Beauty with Fabrics

I hope you all had a wonderful week-end and are ready for the start of another great week. Since so many people seem to be hard at work cozying up their "outdoor living spaces" for the summer, me included...what a better time than now to look at some outdoor fabric ideas.

These Zancudo Outdoor Fabrics by Osborne and Little (osborneandlittle.com) feature five fabric designs in various colors.  These are great for outdoor use as they have excellent lightfastness. They also have a soil resistant finish and they actually dry without leaving stains. An excellent choice for your new cushions and pillows for your outdoor "haven" whether poolside, terrace, or patio.

For those ready-made cushions try these cushions by Sunbrella. This is another excellent choice since they are durable and resist mildew,  fading, chlorine and stains. They can be found at Pottery Barn (potterybarn.com).

Or how about adding a little floral garden theme to your outdoor living spaces...the kind you don't even have to water!  These lovely pillows would add some life to any area and are great used with the solid cushions (or stripes).  These ready-mades can also be found at Pottery Barn (potterybarn.com). 

We can even take Damask to the outdoors...with this swirl floral design taken from a 17-century Indonesian Fortuny print.




Another great source for replacement cushions is Lloyd and Flanders...a well known manufacturer of fine outdoor furniture and cushions.  They are designed to "weather" well during all seasons of the year. They will also send you fabric swatches at no charge that you can see up close and personal in order to make your selection. Be sure to visit their website at Lloyd Replacement Cushions.

 

As you can see...whether using solids or mix-n-match patterns...updating and layering these in your outdoor spaces can help create that retreat feeling in a place that you will want to sneak away to for some "down" time...each and every day.  

Have a Happy Monday that is "Simply Irresistible"!