Bringing the indoors out is an emerging trend in patio design.  Fireplaces, kitchens & even outdoor TVs are popping up on patios and extending the use of our outdoor spaces!

The days of grilling being restricted to burgers, steaks and hot dogs are gone!  Modern outdoor kitchens feature sinks, side burners and searing stations; enough to cook a 5 course meal.  Today premium grills have superior temperature regulation; you can bake cookies on one side, while grilling fish on the other!

Adding a pergola, sun sail or patio roof to your outdoor space creates a sense of coziness and helps the area feel more defined as an outdoor room.  Adding overhead lighting creates a warm space to enjoy dinner or relax on a summer evening.  In the case of a sun sail or patio roof, the overhead effect of your patio can also create a shady spot to lounge on a hot afternoon.

An outdoor fireplace offers a patio style borrowed from indoors.  You could even add a mantle and an outdoor TV!  Fireplaces are great addition to your larger scale outdoor rooms-a perfect addition to a pool deck!

A fire pit creates the perfect gathering spot for friends and family.  Place chairs and couches around the fire to extend the appeal of your patio well into the fall!

Not all of us have a huge backyard with enough space for gigantic patios, but there are plenty of ways to customize these trend to fit any space.  This corner fire pit adds warmth to the patio while still leaving plenty of room for a dining set. You can have an outdoor kitchen while only taking up a 5'x3' footprint!  

With the rainy spring we've been having in Massachusetts, it seems everyone is getting stir crazy!  When the sun finally starts shining, make sure your outdoor space is somewhere you'd like to spend time.  Take a look at these ideas to make your outdoor living space a little more alluring!

Set the scene for relaxation by styling your outdoor seating area with design details that remind you of being on vacation!  Dreaming of a Tahitian getaway?  Create a rainforest tone in your backyard with teak furniture and lush greens.  Or a Nantucket inspired beach theme with classic all-weather wicker, bluestone, and Rosa Rugosa.

Where are you most drawn to in the garden?  You may be more inclined to sit in one area for morning coffee, and another spot in the afternoon.  Make a note of the path of the sun as it changes throughout the day.  Consider a small bistro set for coffee in an area that experiences morning sun.  A rustic, reading and relaxation oriented patio is a great option for areas that experience afternoon sun.   

We go to great lengths to make the interiors of our homes comfortable and inviting; why would you skimp on the outside?  Try adopting the mindset you would use when arranging your living room as you consider your outdoor space.  Cushion depth, seat-back height and overall comfort are super important when choosing pieces for your outdoor living room.  Try adding throw pillows to couches, and potted plants as living center pieces on your dining sets!