The last sunny, warm days of summer are upon us -- take advantage of this gorgeous time of year by creating shady outdoor living space that invites family, friends and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors, right in your own yard. Whether your existing pergola or gazebo is in need of updating or you're dreaming of a brand new outdoor room, these creative room ideas are sure to spark inspiration and transform the outdoor space; exterior remodeling Northern Virginia projects can transform the exterior of your home from ho-hum to spectacular.
1. Pretty Pergolas
When it comes to creating that perfect blend of just enough shade and just enough sun, nothing dresses up your patio quite like a pergola. These versatile structures are airier than a gazebo and more substantial than an arbor and provide the perfect place to establish a seating area.
Pergola designs for patios range from the simple -- a freestanding structure atop a patio, courtyard or just some pavers -- to the complex, such as an attached pergola that covers your deck. With an open overhead grid that allows for a dappled blend of light and shade, a pergola provides a relaxing backdrop to while away those summer afternoons with a refreshing beverage and some great company.
Keep it clean and calm by installing a white, freestanding pergola over a cozy seating area. Add pop with colorful plants in nearby beds, in multi-hued pots or in hanging baskets. An outdoor rug anchors the room. For an attached pergola, consider adding light screens to the sides to increase shade and lower your air conditioning costs. For a classic look, use lattice; for a more contemporary feel, use wood strips in a grid pattern or plant dense groupings of tall grasses, such as pampas or maiden grass, along the pergola's edge. For a playful element, add a swinging seat to your pergola's upper beams; your home improvement contractors Northern Virginia can ensure that your structure is strong enough to support it.
2. Tasteful Trellis
A trellis isn't just for supporting vines and roses, though it can do that, too! Combine a trellis with a pergola or awning for a more room-like feeling; a free-standing trellis offers a modern look that lets more of the outdoors in. Use a sectional trellis to partially enclose a garden workspace or potting bench, creating an attractive way to hide tools and supplies.
Similarly, using a trellis to create a fence creates a whimsical look, especially when plants are grown up the sides. Create a seating area using complementary furnishings and add color with flowering annuals, perennials and ground covers. Though many trellis designs focus on white wood and latticework, you can create a contemporary look by using wire to create a trellis.
Trellises can also be used to add privacy and create cozy outdoor spaces. Surround a deck, patio or seating area with several trellises to increase privacy without blocking light and summer breezes. For a more room-like feeling, install a trellis with a slightly projecting top.
3. Awesome Awnings
Sometimes, all it takes to transform an outdoor living space is a bit of upward attention. If you've already got a deck or patio, add shade and substance with an awning, canopy, roof shade or open overhead grid. These options create a comfortable, shady space to relax without blocking light and fresh air flow. Awnings are also a great and simple addition to your porch to increase your curb appeal.
Add to that living-room-feeling by creating centralized furniture groupings; instead of pushing seats up to the wall, place waterproof, outdoor-friendly chairs and love seats around small tables, much as you'd find in an indoor living room. Add a few electrical outlets for lighting sources and laptop recharging for an even-more friendly space.
When you're ready to embark on your exterior remodeling Northern Virginia project, enlist help from the experts! Our home improvement contractors Northern Virginia and home improvement contractors Maryland understand the unique climate conditions in the region and can help you create the best plan for your home.
Image Credits: Kew on Flickr, CroDigTap, ntm1909, Stirling
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