People put a lot of effort into creating a functional, comfortable home, with every room set up for their particular needs. An outdoor living room is the perfect space to lounge and entertain, which is why it's essential to curate a space that you and your family love.

Take some suggestions from design and outdoor professionals to set up a space you won’t want to leave. 

Consider Your Space

If you are fortunate enough to have a large yard, creating an outdoor area for just about everything is a little easier. Although you may want that al fresco experience, it's important to not overwhelm your yard.

“Whether you’re decorating a sprawling patio or a tiny balcony, creating an outdoor living space starts with a measuring tape,” says Kelsey Clark, a designer editor at Havenly. “Understanding exactly how much room you have to play with will determine your entire setup."

Add some unique touches if you have the space as well, like a spot to watch movies under the stars.

“If you love to watch movies with your family in the evenings, consider installing a TV on a covered deck or bringing a projector out to the yard,” says Dani Smith, a Utah-based interior designer.

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Keep a Consistent Style

Moving your activities to an outdoor space doesn’t mean compromising on your core design preferences. With so many options for outdoor furnishings, including rugs, fountains, and other accessories, you are sure to find items that complement the looks you love inside your home.

“Anticipate needs as you would indoors—add blankets, candles, and lighting for when the sun goes down and the bugs come out," Clark says. "Have plenty of table space to keep drinks within reach, and decorative accents for warmth and ambiance."

Create Boundaries

Open space in your yard might be the best fit for the kind of outdoor gathering spot you have in mind. 

“Use a trellis or modular system to create an inexpensive structure to bring architectural interest to an otherwise dull space,” says Heather Eubanks, an interior designer at TDC Interior Design. “This structure can also serve to hang string lights, plants, or curtains.”

Boundaries can also be important for blocking out things you don’t want to intrude on your sanctuary, such as sounds, sights, and sun. 

“Create a visual barrier from unsightly views of interstates, parking lots, or neighbors with strategically potted plants, a green wall or trellis, hanging curtains, or if you can, a fence,” Eubanks says.

Set Up Zones

Divide your outdoor space based on the activities and those who will be using it. For example, be sure to set up a spot for long conversations or grilling for the grown-ups and another area where kids could play by themselves. If you have the room, give everyone a little bit of what they want and need. 

Mind the Climate

In order to make the most of your outdoor space and enjoy it more often throughout the year, think about what additions could extend the seasons.

“If you live in a hot, sunny location, you may want to invest in some shade structures, like an awning or pergola,” says Zahid Adnan, the founder and interior designer at theplantbible.com. “If you live in a cooler climate, consider adding a fire pit or outdoor heater to keep your space cozy and comfortable.”

Remember Comfort

Don't settle for uncomfortable outdoor tables or chairs just because they adhere strictly to a certain style. Comfort should be a top priority, so make sure to invest in quality pieces you and your guests can lounge in for hours.

“If reclining to enjoy the sunset is your idea of relaxation, buy an Adirondack chair or even a lounger,” suggests Smith. “There is no law telling you to buy furniture in sets or that it needs to be purchased from the garden center at your local big box store.”