4 Things You Should Know About Decorating Any Outdoor Space, According to HGTV's Emily Henderson
Summer might be winding down, but that doesn't mean you need to shut down your outdoor space just yet. Whether you're planning on hosting a few more al fresco dinners or you're looking to refresh your backyard for some restorative time alone, there are plenty of ways to make your outdoor space the star of your home (or at least as comfortable as your indoors). To help you do just that, we spoke to HGTV star Emily Henderson, who recently partnered with PRESS Seltzers to share some of her outdoor design secrets. For all her tips for making your backyard feel more elevated, read on.
Think of Your Outdoor Space As You Would Your Indoor Space
"I approach an outdoor space just like an indoor room," says Henderson. "I try and consider the wall, ceiling, and the floor first." While you likely won't be installing a ceiling over your backyard, Henderson believes using these three key elements can help visually anchor the space. "It can create that intimacy that you'd want from an indoor space," she says.
To mimic the effect of a ceiling, Henderson suggests installing string lights, taking advantage of the natural foliage, or even using an umbrella. As for walls, she says, "you want to create a conversation area rather than an expansive space," and uses planters to designate separate zones, effectively breaking up a larger space and make it feel more intimate. While she typically uses an outdoor rug as a "floor," she says it's not always necessary. "It could even be stone or pebbles that you put down... It's a nice way to ground an area." Together, these components build the foundation of the space. "I work my way in from those elements," she says.
Make It Comfortable
"It's always a challenge to make sure you're creating a comfortable space," says Henderson. "Typically, outdoor furniture is wood or metal, but it's not that comfortable." Investing in quality cushions to lay overtop pieces you already have is a good solution. But be sure to choose cushions in performance fabrics. "Outdoor furniture, if you're not careful, can weather," she warns.
Love knowing what your favorite HGTV stars are up to? Same. Let’s keep up with them together.
Set the Mood
Once you've built the foundation of your space, you can start to add ambiance. "Pillows, throws, and lighting are really where you create your mood," says Henderson. "These are the things that draw people outside." For Henderson, the most important of these ambiance boosters is lighting, especially if you're entertaining. "Lighting is key to a good mood," she says. The designer opts for multiple sources of lighting for outdoor parties, like candles, lanterns, and, of course, string lights. "String lights will turn any backyard into a Parisian bistro," she says. Très chic!
So, even without a large budget, speckling your yard with colorful textiles, moody lighting, or beautiful plants adds the sort of chic flair you might find at a beautiful outdoor restaurant. "These are easy ways to add life, personality, mood, and style in a way that's not crazy expensive," Henderson says.
Bring the Indoors Out
"Not everyone has extra outdoor tables, but when you're entertaining, you need them," Henderson points out. Her solution? Make your indoor furniture work double-time by temporarily bringing pieces outside to add more seating and surfaces! "It can make [your yard] feel elevated and special," she says. The same goes for linens and dining ware. While you can certainly opt for a special set of dishes to use outdoors, Henderson argues that it's not always necessary or sustainable. "Feel free to bring your indoors out because it does make everything look more beautiful and special. And it's easy!"
Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.
You Might Also Like
