Designing an Outdoor Living Room: The Garden as a Second Living Room

For outdoor furniture, materials that are both durable and weather-resistant are important. Aluminum is a popular choice because it is lightweight, rust-free, and easy to maintain. It is excellent for modern designs and is available in many colors. Teak wood is another excellent material known for its natural beauty and resilience. It contains natural oils that protect it from moisture and pests, making it ideal for outdoor use. Polyrattan is also a good option as it mimics the look of natural rattan but is much more resistant to weather conditions. It is easy to clean and available in many different styles and colors. Stainless steel is another robust choice, particularly suitable for table frames and chairs. It is corrosion-resistant and gives the furniture a modern look. Finally, plastics like polypropylene or polyethylene are a good choice as they are lightweight, weatherproof, and available in many colors and shapes. When choosing materials, make sure they match your style and meet the requirements of your garden.

Dividing your garden into different areas can be achieved through the use of plants, furniture, and decorative elements. Large potted plants or hedges are excellent as natural room dividers. They not only create visual barriers but also contribute to the atmosphere. Trellises with climbing plants are another way to visually separate areas. They offer privacy and can also serve as decorative elements. Furniture arrangements can also help in dividing spaces. A lounge group, for example, can define an area for relaxation and socializing, while a dining table creates a separate area for meals. The use of outdoor rugs can also help mark different zones. They not only provide comfort but also visually delineate spaces. Decorative elements like sculptures or water features can serve as eye-catchers and further emphasize the different areas. Make sure that the transitions between the areas are harmonious and that the overall impression remains coherent.

When choosing plants for your outdoor living room, you should consider both aesthetic and practical aspects. Evergreen plants like boxwood or ivy are ideal because they stay green all year round and provide structure. They are well-suited as hedges or in containers to define areas. Flowering plants like lavender, hydrangeas, or roses add color and fragrance to your garden. They also attract bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity. Grasses like pampas grass or ornamental grasses are easy to care for and give your outdoor living room a natural touch. They sway in the wind and create a dynamic atmosphere. Herbs like rosemary, thyme, or mint are not only decorative but also useful for the kitchen. They can be planted in pots or raised beds and emit a pleasant fragrance. Make sure the plants match the light and soil conditions in your garden and are easy to care for to keep maintenance low.

To protect your outdoor furniture from the elements, there are several measures you can take. First, it's important to choose furniture made from weather-resistant materials that are naturally resilient against rain, sun, and temperature fluctuations. Aluminum, teak wood, and polyrattan are good options here. Additionally, you can protect your furniture with special covers that shield them from rain and UV radiation. These covers should be breathable to prevent mold formation. For wooden furniture, it's advisable to treat them regularly with a suitable wood preservative to renew the natural protective layer. Regular cleaning of the furniture also contributes to its longevity. Use mild cleaning agents and soft cloths to avoid damaging the surfaces. For cushions and pillows, it's wise to store them in a weatherproof chest or cabinet when not in use. This way, they remain dry and clean. Finally, during extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds or frost, you should, if possible, place the furniture in a sheltered area.

For lighting your outdoor living room, a combination of functional and atmospheric lighting is ideal. LED spotlights or wall lights provide the basic lighting and can be used to illuminate specific areas. Make sure they are weatherproof and meet safety standards. For a cozy atmosphere, string lights are an excellent choice. They can be wrapped around trees, railings, or pergolas, creating a warm, inviting ambiance. Solar lamps are an eco-friendly option that charge during the day and turn on automatically in the evening. They are available in various designs and can be placed flexibly in the garden. Lanterns and candle holders give your outdoor living room a romantic touch. Make sure the candles are wind-protected to ensure safe burning. LED candles are a safe alternative that mimic the flicker of real candles. Ground lights or recessed lights can mark paths or terrace edges and provide safety. For special occasions, you can experiment with colored lights to adjust the lighting mood according to the occasion.

To protect your outdoor living room from prying eyes, there are various options that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. One of the simplest solutions is the use of privacy screens or partitions. These can be made of wood, metal, or plastic and offer immediate protection. They are available in various designs and can be rearranged as needed. Plants are a natural and decorative way to create privacy. Hedges, bamboo, or large potted plants are excellent for screening areas. Trellises with climbing plants like ivy or clematis also provide protection and are a beautiful eye-catcher at the same time. Sun sails or awnings can protect not only from the sun but also from views from above. They come in various sizes and colors and can be used flexibly. The use of outdoor curtains is also an option. They can be attached to pergolas or pavilions and offer both protection and a cozy atmosphere. Make sure the materials are weatherproof to ensure longevity.

For decorating your outdoor living room, there are numerous elements that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Plants are an essential component and can be integrated in the form of potted plants, hanging baskets, or herb pots. They bring color and life to the space and can also serve as natural room dividers. Cushions and blankets are not only comfortable but also an important decorative element. Choose weather-resistant textiles in various colors and patterns to give your outdoor living room a personal touch. Light sources such as string lights, lanterns, or solar lamps create a cozy atmosphere. Make sure the lighting is both functional and decorative. Decorative accessories like vases, candle holders, or sculptures give your outdoor living room the finishing touch. Ensure that the materials are sturdy and weatherproof. Water elements like a small fountain or a water feature can have a calming effect and enrich the ambiance. With these decorative elements, you create an inviting and personal atmosphere.

To be able to use your outdoor living room in winter, there are some measures you can take to make it cozy and inviting. One of the most important considerations is the heat source. Heaters or fire pits are ideal for providing cozy warmth on cool days. Make sure the devices are suitable for outdoor use and safe to handle. Blankets and cushions made of warming materials like fleece or wool can offer additional comfort. Choose textiles that are weatherproof and can be easily stored when needed. A windbreak, whether in the form of plants, screens, or privacy walls, can help keep the cold at bay and make the area cozier. Lighting also plays an important role in winter. Opt for warm light sources like string lights or lanterns to create an inviting atmosphere. Finally, you can use covered areas or pavilions to be protected from rain or snow. With these measures, you can enjoy your outdoor living room all year round.