Posted May 11, 2017 in Blog, Landscape Design
When homeowners decide that it is time to focus their attention on creating or renovating their outdoor living spaces, typically the first decisions are about the materials to use and the features to include. However, there is one factor that may slip through the cracks of consideration; it is very valuable for the space in-between to feel open and welcoming! Indoor to outdoor transition is critical in design but offers a closer connection with nature, allowing the sunlight to brighten the indoors and expanding the livable space outside of the home. To achieve a seamless indoor – outdoor transition, it is necessary to “blur” the lines between in and out. You can achieve this with several different design elements, according to your taste and budget.
Extending your livable space can be achieved by incorporating a deck or patio just outside of your most popular indoor rooms like the kitchen or family room. Being able to have an outdoor space that is flush with the first floor of your home is convenient on many levels. Without a set of steps to contend with, you no longer have to worry about your young children or older family members tripping and getting hurt. Let’s not forget that level transition is highly sought-after in the real estate world, which adds value to your home.
To further “blur” the in and out, talk to your landscape designer about bringing parts of the interior outside. Decking, for example, does not have to be run-of-the-mill pressure treated lumber or plastic-y looking deck boards. Opting for tropical hardwood or highly realistic composite decking or tile overlay will extend the look of your indoor flooring, acting as if there were no break in design. This will mimic the home’s layout and style for a sense of lingering continuity, and the long lines of sight will help you achieve the optical illusion of a much larger space!
Another element to consider when creating transitional areas is to also create a form of protection overhead. Pergolas, pavilions, gazebos, and extended roof structures off the home will provide that added protection from the elements and intense mid-day sun while also providing a comfortable place to relax in the open air and natural light. An extended roof structure not only provides protection for your family, but will provide protection to the outdoor features you would like to include in your backyard transformation. Roof extensions will house all the comforts of the indoors in an outdoor situation like fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, seating, lighting, tvs, sound systems…etc. Being able to combine both covered and open spaces will make your home feel like a retreat, you sure won’t want to leave.
Where there’s a will, there’s a way. The doorways that lead outside no longer must be your standard doors or sliders. While those types of egress are standard, there are alternatives! Exploring options like accordion, hinged or pocket doors will open a whole new world of aesthetic and possibility! Transforming fixed, non-load bearing walls into expansive openings in the home invite people to roam freely within the space, creating a feeling of perfect autonomy. Removing the visual and physical barriers of standard doorways allows for flawless enjoyment whether inside or out, no matter what season of the year! A perfect transition without hindrance. Not a fan of sliding walls? Opt to install large windows along the back walls of the home instead. While you won’t have the ability to use the space as an outlet, you certainly will gain the benefit of added light and view.
Once the boundaries between the in and out are eliminated or the space has been opened, to truly drive the idea of seamless transition home, be sure to keep the design elements cohesive. Being able to create a mood within the home and carry that same feeling to this outdoor bonus space will make two spaces feel like one. Analogous furniture, color schemes and decorative features will beautifully achieve the united flow of the spaces. Don’t be afraid to carry the outside feeling inside as well. Incorporating like planters and flowers or plants to your indoor theme will further create harmony between the spaces.
With indoor spaces quickly transitioning with the slide of a wall and outside spaces transitioning with the addition of a roof, the “blur” between in and out is very real, and that is fine by us! The many advantages of these compatible spaces for your family’s enjoyment of the home and for the value of the property are well worth the time it takes to design, plan and construct.
Have you been toying with the idea of creating your very own seamless transitional space? MasterPLAN would love to chat! At MasterPLAN Landscape Design, we pride ourselves in getting to know our clients and their families before starting the design process; we want to partner with you throughout your outdoor living experience! You will find that any company can build a deck, pool or patio, but MasterPLAN wants to make sure that you love your outdoor spaces by combining function & beauty and custom-tailoring your space to fit your lifestyle. When you are ready, reach out to MasterPLAN to discuss your outdoor aspirations…we would love to welcome you into the MasterPLAN family!
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