Chicago Interior Design-Designing Outdoor Spaces To Be Luxurious

Part of crafting a well-planned luxury home is ensuring the outdoor spaces are just as sophisticated and well appointed as the Interior spaces under roof. The secret is imagining the balcony, terrace or verandah isnt out-of-doors at all and approaching it the same way you would an Interior design challenge. Anchor your scheme with lavish, ultra-comfy furniture, art, lighting, sound, some great architectural detailing andof courselots of beautiful plants.

Time spent outdoors is when you relax, take in fresh air and let the surrounding world pass you by. Its vital that furnishings be stylish and noble, but equally important that they exude exceptional comfort. John Robert Wiltgen Design, a Chicago Interior designer that also specializes in outdoor spaces, recommends adding a piece of sculpture; depending upon the size of the space it can either become the centerpiece or can be tucked into a corner. You will also want some high quality in-ground speakers so that you can listen to music to lift your spirits.

Some great architectural detailing adds personality to your garden; it can be something as simple as a pediment over the exterior door or it can be something more elaboratea shed that looks like a Greek Temple with some moldings and columns. Once all of these pieces are in place then it is time to add lighting; it should come from a variety of placesin the ground and in the trees. And lighting does not have to come only in the form of something with lampsit could also be torches, tables with firepits, or tall heaters for your terrace.

High-end teak with oversized cushions is a popular starting point for quality outdoor seating thats cozy and chic while still being well suited to face the elements. Do not be afraid to mix it up a bit. Just like indoors, everything does not have to match. It is far more interesting to combine a variety of materials and textures. Make room for a glass-top or quartzite table and sculptural iron chairs for al fresco dining. An indulgent patio features ice buckets on stands, an outdoor television, a place for sunning, a place for those who dont like to sun, a gas grill, even a water feature. For those who wish to create a more private ambiance, consider a hedge or walled gardensimilar to the kind you find in Italy or the south of France.

Feel the warmth

Few experiences in life sooth like watching flickering flames on an open fire. Whether you opt for a full-on brick fireplace or an ornate gas-powered fire pit, adding an element of heat helps bring people closer together, even during the summer months. Homeowners short on space should consider investing in a gas firepit table; it could be a dining table, coffee table or both.

Be consistent with your color selections

So much of your balcony, terrace, or verandah is visible from the Interior of your residence so your color scheme should complement the basic palette of the rest of your home. There are so many choices in fabrics today that are suitable for the outdoors and yet so sumptuous; prints, textures, and lots of solid colors. Plenty of greenery is a must for any luxury terrace. Try to select the color of the leaves and flowers to blend with the fabrics and material selections of your outdoor space. All of these details are just as important as designing the inside of your home.

Twinkling lights

Take bold off the menu when it comes to outdoor lighting. Think lanterns, candles, torches and anything that sparkles. Electric LED faux candles are perfect for courtyards subject to a lot of wind.

Once night falls its all about relaxing and having a good time, so worry less about overhead lighting and more about accents and ambiance. Creating a mood is far more relevant than emulating sunshine.

Your own private piece of heaven

Friends will love coming over to your place for drinks and a bite to eat after setting up your little slice of paradise. Be sure to use heavy wine glasses so the wind does not blow them over. Cloth napkins always add a touch of elegance to your dinner table. Lush cushioned bar stools are a must and somewhere comfy for the bartender to sit while practicing mixology on you and your guests. Enjoy.

Looking to design the luxury home of your dreams? Contact John Robert Wiltgen Design, Inc., 70 W. Hubbard Street, Suite 205, Chicago, IL 60654 or visit www. jrwdesign. com.