Inspiring Outdoor Living Spaces

Get Inspired... Outside!

Its August, already! I did NOT want to see this beautiful time of summer pass by without highlighting one of my favorite spaces. I get most inspired in the great outdoors, but sometimes I have to be in doors and just look out! It is so important to create those inspiring spaces where you can do both at the same time - indoor/outdoor living or working.

When I acquired our office building in downtown Boise a few years ago, we had a small gravel 2 stall parking area behind the building. It just didn’t make as much sense to maintain that space as parking when there were several other great alternatives. This space seemed to have such high potential for something better! And that it is - we get so much use out of our “zen” courtyard including: employee lunches, staff gatherings, client meetings, etc.

Here are a few photos of our patio I thought you might like:

I especially like the view from my desk in my office:

So... Just imagine the waterfall softly flowing and the birds chirping around the bamboo trees…ahh! And Yes, I do actually get work done in this space... it is my most inspirational spot!

Some materials that I think are mandatory to make a balanced outdoor space are:

• Natural Stone or Rock
• Lush Live Plants
• Metal of some sort
• Wood Element
• Water
• Fire is an Option
• Easy access to inside and out (preferably large openings)
• Lighting for Accent (preferably solar or another sustainable source)
  
  It doesn't always have to be a big space either - you can create a big feel in a little space almost anywhere!

Here are some other outdoor relaxation and inspiring spaces I really like!

photo courtesy of hgtv.com

On this Brooklyn rooftop, beach-style plantings surround informal furniture creating naturalistic boundaries between neighboring buildings.

Photo Courtesy of Western Art & Architecture Magazine

photo courtesy of hgtv.com

The telescoping pocket door that disappears into the wall provides seamless transition from indoor to outdoor. When entertaining bring out some indoor furniture and plants, even some lamps, to give it a cozy feel.

Photo Courtesy of Kieffer Design Group

Photo Courtesy of Western Art & Architecture Magazine