Summer is here! So, it’s time to maximize your outdoor living areas. Here are some tips to create an outdoor oasis and bring the latest painting and staining looks to your open-air escape.
MAXIMIZE YOUR EXTERIOR SPACE: Tips to Create an Outdoor Oasis
Dine Al Fresco
Traditionally, backyard patio areas connect to the exterior of the home. This is done for easy access. However, for a unique experience, consider pushing your al fresco dining areas further out into the yard. Cooking and dining under the stars is the perfect way to spend time with family and friends. All while embracing the warmer, summer weather. Also, great options exist for cooking while entertaining your guests. For example, barbecues, fire pits and outdoor wood-ovens.
Create an Outdoor Oasis
Injecting colourful accessories into your landscape is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to elevate a backyard. Furthermore, it’ll feel like an extension of your home’s interior. For instance, brightly painted Muskoka chairs grounded on a weather resistant outdoor rug make for an intimate conversation area. Also, this combo creates a vibrant focal point in the backyard. Additionally, painted flower boxes, string lights and cushions are all great ways to make a backyard feel even more inviting.
Deck It OuT
Create areas of interest by using both semi-transparent and solid stains on your deck and rails. I like to apply a natural, lighter stain on the decking, with a darker, solid stain on vertical architectural features. For example, the railings.
If your wood is new or in great shape, treat it with a simple translucent or semi-transparent stain like Benjamin Moore’s ARBORCOAT®. This will enhance the natural wood colour. Semi-solid stains are great for covering imperfections while allowing some of the grain and texture of the wood to show through. Solid stains are more like paint and leave an opaque colour and texture.
You can test the different translucencies and colours with pint sample cans. It’s always best to “try-before-you-buy” as stain colours can look quite different on every type of wood.
Photo Credits: Benjamin Moore
Above Image Paint Details:
- DECK: Cordovan Brown ES-62, ARBORCOAT®, Semi-Solid
- LADDER: Forest Hills Green 433, Regal® Select Exterior High-Build, Soft Gloss
By Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore Colour and Design Expert and regular guest on CityTV’s Cityline.
Benjamin Moore’s vision is to inspire and transform our homes, our communities, and our lives one brushstroke at a time.
