Top 5 Ways to Create an Ideal Outdoor Oasis
Where to shop to transform your backyard or balcony
After far more months spent indoors than we care to think about, our appreciation for the outdoors – and the serenity it can bring – has multiplied tenfold. And with the South Florida summer in full effect, what better time than right now to create the at-home al fresco oasis you’ve always imagined?
Whether you’re working with a balcony, patio or plus-sized backyard, simple additions like lighting, giving your green thumb a workout or even that one perfect lounging piece can transform your space and make a world of blissful, open-air difference.
“It’s about creating an outdoor living space that’s cozy and warm,” said Franck Rutbi, CEO of Home Couture.
To help you get there, we visited local home retailers to source the things that can extend your living space beyond its four walls and into the great outdoors. Creating a personal slice of paradise, coming up.
Light Bright
The right lighting equals instant ambience, and lanterns are a perfect way to elevate an outdoor space. Illuminate your patio, deck or pool with stylish, luxurious Cleo Lanterns from Home Couture. Available in three sizes, their clean, elegant lines will draw you in like moths to a flame. Your options are endless when it comes to lighting, but these absolutely stand out in a crowd.
Home Couture, Design & Art Mall Miami, 8690 Biscayne Blvd., Ste. 5, Miami, FL 33138; HomeCouture.us
Contain Yourself
Potted plants and other flora are an inexpensive way to bring happiness and life to an exterior space – and stylish planters are a simple upgrade that can carry a big punch. Wynwood fave Vondom specializes in unique, avant-garde planters – these sculptural options are akin to art pieces – of various styles, colors, shapes and sizes. And once you’re there, you won’t be able to resist perusing its extensive collection of outdoor furniture, lighting and rugs.
Vondom Miami, 2301 N Miami Ave., Miami, FL, 33127; Vondom.com
Throw Some Shade
The South Florida sun is no joke, so making the most of your outdoor space likely means adding an essential element: an umbrella that’s as fabulous as it is functional, to protect you from those UV rays while also providing a shady refuge. Miami Umbrellas specializes in customized umbrellas to fit any space or budget that will help you create the ideal relaxing environment. Sturdy styles that can withstand harsh sunshine, wind and salt are available from brands including Fiberbuilt, Neo, Poggesi and Skyspan.
Lounge Act
Lounging and dining outdoors are things South Floridians can enjoy pretty much year-round – there’s just something special about a meal, a cocktail or a good book curled up and cozy under the sky. Give yourself the gift of that feeling any day of the week with furniture specifically built for the outdoors. Family-owned and operated Schnupp Patio offers dining tables, sofas and lounge chairs based on your lifestyle with affordable options. Collections include the Aruba, Marbella and Alia lines.
Schnupp Patio, 2113 NW 17th Ave, Miami, FL, 33142; SchnuppPatio.com
Hang Time
Tap into your inner child with a hanging or swing chair, a longtime high-design piece that’s now become widely available and more affordable. The Contract Vase Hanging Chair at Clima Home gives all the boho feels, perfect for a relaxing day gently swaying under the sun. And the pint-sized Dedon Kida Hanging Lounge Chair is just the right fit for little sophisticates.
Clima Home, 3650 N Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33127; ClimaHome.com