The Mercury News

Tips for creating an outdoor entertaini­ng space for summer

- By Cathy Hobbs

With summer comes the desire to entertain guests outdoors. Whether it’s dining al fresco, outdoor cooking or elements such as fire pits, now is a great opportunit­y to look for ways to extend your outdoor living experience.

Outdoor Living Spaces

An outdoor living space can be just that, a living space that serves as an additional room. Whether a balcony, screened patio, deck or even part of a backyard, consider adding elements to help these spaces feel comfortabl­e and cozy. Some essentials include a sofa, coffee table, side chairs or tables. When it comes to enclosed areas, consider adding a pop of color by using an outdoor area rug.

Outdoor Fire Pit

Unlike other outdoor projects, the fire pit is relatively affordable and depending on the desired size and look can be a straightfo­rward project. Additional­ly, a fire pit can be transporta­ble and mobile; it does not have to be a permanent structure. Even so, fire pits can be quite elaborate, ranging from the rustic to ultra modern and can be executed in the form of built-in stone or concrete structures, to those sunk into the ground or even abovegroun­d fire pits. They can be used year-round as a gathering and entertainm­ent space. Outdoor Décor Tips There is no reason why your outdoor living space can’t look just as appealing as your indoor living space. When looking to add color and decor to your outdoor environmen­t, here are some tips to keep in mind.

1. Add lots of color. Color can be the key to enhancing an outdoor environmen­t. Consider bright, vibrant colors such as turquoise, orange, yellow and red.

2. Layer your decor. Add elements such as an area rug to toss pillows and place settings.

3. Add greenery. From trees to landscapin­g and potted plants and flowers, these elements can add texture, color and interest. Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Awardwinni­ng television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@ cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com.

 ??  ?? An outdoor pool can provide fun seasonal entertainm­ent. (Design Recipes/tns)
An outdoor pool can provide fun seasonal entertainm­ent. (Design Recipes/tns)
 ??  ?? Firepits can provide year-round enjoyment. (Design Recipes/tns)
Firepits can provide year-round enjoyment. (Design Recipes/tns)
 ??  ?? Outdoor kitchens can become the heart of an outdoor experience. (Design Recipes/tns)
Outdoor kitchens can become the heart of an outdoor experience. (Design Recipes/tns)
 ??  ?? Summer is the perfect time to dine and lounge al fresco. (Design Recipes/tns)
Summer is the perfect time to dine and lounge al fresco. (Design Recipes/tns)
 ??  ?? An outdoor garden can serve as an outdoor oasis. (Design Recipes/tns)
An outdoor garden can serve as an outdoor oasis. (Design Recipes/tns)

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