Winter is finally over — and I couldn’t be happier! Now it’s time to focus on our outdoor spaces and make them cosy, welcoming and functional. Whether you have a balcony, patio, small yard or large outdoor area, I hope these two projects I’m going to share will inspire you as you begin creating a space you truly enjoy.
Your own little getaway doesn’t have to be expensive. It can be as simple as a gazebo with a loveseat, a few chairs, plants, maybe a rug and a table. Even a small patio can become a space that calls your name.
For me, my special place in my new home is “The Nest.” It’s a wooden structure on the side of my deck that immediately sparked my creativity the first time I saw it. I envisioned it filled with plants and a peaceful place to read, relax and unwind.
Bringing “The Nest” to life
I knew right away that the black lattice panels had to go, and I also wanted to cover the bright yellow paint.
I decided to use Mysterious, the accent colour from my shutters, front door and garage door, to paint several of the wood features in the space. The darker colour instantly added warmth and character.
Next, I brought out my patio furniture, picked up a rug, and discovered an old sewing table in my garage. I painted the tabletop of the sewing table in the same accent colour and brought it into The Nest. Once everything was set up, I could really see the space coming to life.
To create a little extra privacy, I even added a navy shower curtain, which worked perfectly for the space — when it’s not too windy, that is.
The finishing touches were the planters that I pulled together. Some of them were hanging planters, which helped add layers and softness to the space. I also found a cute bird cage that I knew would be the perfect decorative touch for The Nest.
I had envisioned soft solar lights along the back wall so that, in the evening, the space would glow with a warm and relaxing atmosphere. I also hung a few bird feeders just outside The Nest so I could enjoy watching the birds while relaxing.
It truly has become my special place, and I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.
Balcony living — small on space, big on style
I absolutely love styling balconies for clients. I see them as wonderful spaces that often need to deliver so much in a limited area. That’s why thoughtful styling can make such a big difference.
Clients of mine in Ottawa moved from a country property to a condo in the city, and they really wanted their balcony to “do it all” while still looking beautiful. It was a tall order, but we were excited for the challenge.
Their balcony started out very plain, with cement floors and walls and very little character.
To warm up the space, they installed all-weather click flooring, and what a difference it made immediately. The balcony instantly felt more inviting and comfortable.
From there, we edited their outdoor furniture and arranged the layout to maximize both seating and functionality without overcrowding the space.
As the design evolved, we realized how much nicer the balcony would feel if the cement walls were covered. They did an amazing job adding wood to the walls, and the transformation was incredible. In fact, he lovingly started referring to the balcony as “their cottage.”
The final touches included accessories, cushions and wall decor that added personality and warmth to the space.
This balcony came together beautifully and became a space they truly love spending time in. This transformation proves that even a small balcony can become a stylish and functional outdoor retreat with a little creativity and thoughtful planning.
I hope these spaces inspire you to look at your own outdoor area a little differently. Whether it’s a deck, patio, balcony or small corner of your yard, there is so much potential waiting to be discovered. Sometimes all it takes is opening your mind, getting creative and adding a few personal touches to create a space that helps you relax, recharge and truly enjoy the outdoors.
Here’s to many beautiful days and cosy evenings spent in your special outdoor space!
