Hang Unique Sconces

Add interest overhead and extend your outdoor space’s usable hours by hanging sconces over the dining table. Here, silver sconces in different shapes and hung at varying levels provide a fun focal point in this mostly white outdoor room.

Put Up a Pergola

Define your outdoor dining area with a pergola. Not only will it make your dining area cozier for your guests, but the overhead covering will provide welcome shade on hot, sunny days. Hang a few lights from the pergola for finished looked that will allow you to continue using the space after the sun sets.

Create Levels

A multilevel outdoor space provides more options for creating separate areas to entertain, dine and relax. Here, rustic metal steps connect each level to give the naturally elegant space an industrial vibe.

A Spot to Sit

Any outdoor living space benefits from lots of cozy seating. This bench is the perfect spot to curl up with a good book or just relax and enjoy the beautiful flower garden. A latticework trellis adds texture.

Go Bold

Give your outdoor space a unique flair by choosing a bold color for your furniture. On a budget? It’s amazing what a can of spray paint will do for old, rusty furniture. The cheery orange used on this outdoor furniture is also found inside, helping connect indoor and outdoor spaces.

Rustic Retreat

For an outdoor space with rustic, natural beauty, install a flagstone patio or walk. This home features a stone facade similar to the irregular stones used on the patio -- connecting the house to its surroundings. Lush plantings dotted with bright, colorful flowers line both sides of the patio.

Install a Fountain

A successful outdoor space takes into consideration all the senses, including sound. And no sound says relaxing like moving water. An elegant fountain featuring one simple stream of water is the perfect focal point for this small, sunken outdoor space.

Hang a Hammock

There's nothing quite like taking a Sunday afternoon nap in your own backyard hammock. Don't worry if you don't have two perfectly spaced trees to hang one from. Attach the hammock to a pergola like these homeowners did, and still benefit from the shade the pergola provides. A hammock stand is another option.