I love spring in the South - the weather is warming, flowers are blooming, and the trees have that beautiful pale green that comes with new leaves. We’re all sweeping out the winter gloom and preparing our outdoor spaces for gatherings with friends and families. At KCI, we’ve finished several gorgeous projects that feature the lovely patios and porches for al fresco fun, and I have 5 tips that will make your spaces perfect for entertaining.

1. Take the Indoors Outside

The room I designed above for an amazing screened porch shows the incredible furnishings that are available for outdoor settings. You want your outdoor rooms to be just as warm and inviting as your interiors, so include lamps, rugs, throws, soft pillows, and fantastic accessories.

2. Create Comfort

Keeping your guests comfortable is the key to the perfect outdoor soiree, so I prefer deep seating in these gathering spaces. The upholstery should be as soft and inviting as your sofa is inside your home. And consider swivel chairs that allow guests to turn toward a conversation, or to a fantastic view.

3. Dine Divinely

Comfort is also key for outdoor dining. Providing cushions - in outdoor performance fabrics, of course - will keep your guests lingering over dinner for hours. I used a bench on the porch above because it allows my clients to squeeze in one more person, as needed.

4. Table Talk

One rule I have for both indoor and outdoor entertaining is to always ensure there is a table near every seat. Not only is it the perfect perch for drinks and plates, but it also holds magazines and books for those quieter moments outdoors.

5. Go High Tech

There are so many great technical advances for outdoor entertaining, including speakers, televisions, refrigerators, and more. These help create lively outdoor events like watching the game, dancing under the stars, or playing video games with the kids. There are no limits anymore to how your outdoor rooms can entertain your guests.

Use these ideas to begin enjoying your outdoor spaces. And if your rooms - outdoors or inside - need an upgrade, contact my team!

All the best,

Kara