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Style Magazine

Fun in the Sun: 3 Inviting Outdoor Spaces

Longer, light-filled days and balmy temps give us plenty of reasons to celebrate. From weekend barbecues and pool parties to Sunday brunches, it’s time to step outside and soak up the sun. Whether you’re a pitmaster pro, hostess with the mostess, or the type to sit back and relax with a cocktail, we have a backyard design to suit you.

Get the grill ready this summer!

 

Grill Master’s Galley
For the wearer of the “Kiss the Cook” apron comes the first outdoor style. With a focus on the backyard as an extension of the indoor kitchen and dining room, this style uses similar surfaces to those you would find in a restaurant or your own personal kitchen. Easy-to-clean countertops, stainless steel grills and cooking appliances, and plenty of storage are key factors to consider when recreating this look. Whether you’re having a romantic dinner outdoors or hosting a birthday party complete with burgers and hot dogs, you’ll need plenty of room to move throughout your kitchen space. Another must-have? An outdoor rug. Not only will it anchor your exterior kitchen, but they’re easy to clean, low-maintenance, and can take the traffic of a hundred little feet, a few pets, or a casual evening outdoors. Consider installing special appliances like a wine cooler, pizza oven, or ice machine to make your outdoor kitchen extra efficient.

Get the friends together for some summer kabobs.

 

Socialite’s Sun Perch
After a long week of working indoors—staring out at the beautiful weather—nothing feels more “right” than hosting an alfresco soirée. Besides some bubbles, bites, and best friends, you’ll need a space that sets the mood and helps the party end on a high note. To achieve this look, choose a citrusy color like orange or yellow to make your exterior space pop and help your guests feel more energized. Next, opt for a dining table that comfortably seats at least six people but is adjustable as needed should your quiet dinner party turn into a more intimate gathering. Next, choose outdoor furniture that complements your bright color palette and dining table—maybe a few lounge chairs or a fire pit. Lastly, gather party-proof accessories, like shatterproof glasses and plates and outdoor light fixtures that are both fashionable and functional.

The best kind of calm is sunbathing by the pool.

 

Relaxer’s Retreat
Nothing screams "calm" quite like lazing in the sun. Taking a catnap on a lounge chair or sunbathing near the pool is a perfect way to while away a summer day, and we highly recommend it. To achieve a relaxing outdoor retreat, you’ll need a few things. First, choose furniture in plush but functional fabrics and neutral colors and patterns. Next, add an outdoor fireplace, chimney, or fire pit to create coziness and keep guests warm after the sun dips down. Lastly, pile on textured textiles and linens, so you can snuggle up with a good book during the day. Whether you’re looking to hit the snooze button in the sun or invite a few people over to hang in your outdoor space, you’ll be all set with the above ideas for a relaxer’s retreat.
 
Which outdoor personality are you? A griller in need of a galley? A sun-bathing socialite? Or someone in dire need of a relaxing retreat? Whether one or all three, these outdoor styles are some of our favorite ways to enjoy the sun-filled months ahead. 

Get the Look

30” Round Santorini Fire Pit by OW Lee, $2,123+ at California Backyard, locations in Roseville, Rancho Cordova, Elk Grove, and Sacramento, californiabackyard.com

30” Round Santorini Fire Pit

 


Coyote Outdoor Living C-Series 34” Built-In Grill, $1,799, Coyote Outdoor Living Pull Out Drawer, $399, and Coyote Outdoor Living 31" Double Access Door, $349, at Masters Wholesale, 2504 Mercantile Drive, Rancho Cordova, 916-635-2504, masterswholesale.com

Coyote Outdoor Living C-Series 34” Built-In Grill

 


Kingsley Bate Chelsea/Wainscott Dining Collection, $4,025 at Green Acres Nursery & Supply, locations in Roseville, Folsom, Rocklin, Auburn, Elk Grove, and Sacramento, idiggreenacres.com

Kingsley Bate Chelsea/Wainscott Dining Collection

 


Riley Faux Rattan Outdoor Chair, $1,190 at Urban 57 Home Décor & Interior Design, 5601 H Street, Sacramento, 916-476-6190; 8126 Madison Avenue, Fair Oaks, 916-992-2500, urban57.com

Riley Faux Rattan Outdoor Chair

 

Hinkley Plantation Post Light, $1,089 at Lighting Unlimited, 2522 Merrychase Drive, Cameron Park, 530-676-4716, lightingu.com

Hinkley Plantation Post Light

 

Items subject to individual stores’ availability and prices subject to change.

by Kerrie L. Kelly, FASID

Grill Master's Gallety photo ©NDABCREATIVITY - stock.adobe.com. Socialite's Sun Perch photo ©Davide Angelini - stock.adobe.com. Relaxer’s Retreat-Photo courtesy of Sacramento Real Estate Photography. Masters Wholesale photo courtesy of Coyote Outdoor Living. Other photos courtesy of their respective companies or organizations.