Just a lil bit of outdoor living love…

{House & Home}

We all know creating an outdoor oasis is basically allowing yourself more living space. It’s an extension of your home so whether you’re fortunate enough to be in a year round warm climate or like me, soaking up all the hotness that the few summer months gives, you should have a space outdoors you can love…

How friggin romantic is this? All you need is some floating candles. This is too gorgeous…

Now is the time to crank up outdoor fireplaces & fire pits…

{Kim Kardashian’s outdoor living space}

Our heat wave has ended. I was loving those 88 degree humid nights, although my hair wasnt :-( . But now that the highs are in the 80s, that means our nights are only in the 70s or a little cooler. I can get cold rather easily so these are the times for outdoor fireplaces…

 

Huntington Beach contemporary patio
 
 
House exterior 3 mediterranean exterior
 
Kapalua Bay tropical pool
 
 
International Style tropical pool

Picnic weather…


{Daily Crushes}

Tho I stan for 90 plus degree days like we endured the last 2 weeks, it’s not idea for picnics. Our forecast is less humid and in the upper 80′s and I can’t think of anything more than to spend part of a lazy Sunday sprawled out on some grassy…or beachy area at the lake (Michigan) with tons of magazines and fruit to indulge in. Now don’t all run at once but this chevron print pink & white drop cloth is from Home Depot for a bank breaking six bucks and some change.
{What You Fancy}

And these fun finds can be purchased at H&M…

Fabulously Designed Courtyard Areas…..

{Desire to Inspire}

Courtyard areas of homes gives the seclusion and privacy one desires while still allowing indulgences of the outdoor elements…

The second view from a different part of the home. Check out those HIGH GLOSS ceilings…

{Deluxearch}

Love the AMBIENT lighting. This space would not look the same without it…

 

{House Mags}

Lounging on Outdoor Beds….

{Oh hello friend blog}

As we enter the second 90 plus degree day here in Milwaukee, I keep envisioning fab outdoor spaces. Typically we see swings and chairs and even sofas but beds allow for tons of additional seating in a relaxed casual way. It’s so hard to pick my favorite but the swing bed had me at hello…

{Pinterest}

This kind of reminds me of THIS

{Tumblr}

Hanging sheer panels from an umbrella? Genius…

{Home Auto Design}

Isn’t this gorgeous?…

Battle of the Sexes: Perfect Picnics…

{Pinterest}

 

Today is going to be 90 degrees and I cannot wait. I live for hot weather and this seating area above would be the perfect spot to enjoy it. I like the wooden overhead sail that relieves some of the sun while allowing some in…almost like a bamboo shade. The pink flowy fabric lining the area screams fun & sun. So with great weather comes picnics. Here I found two different looks perfect for two different settings. One is more masculine & the other more feminine.

The setting: Under a cherry blossom tree at a park
Decor: sheer fabric draping from a branch forming an airy canopy or tent and blankets & pillows in pink.
Food: pretty woven picnic baskets filled with danishes, fresh fruit & tea….

{Tumblr}

The Setting: the lake.
Decor: Set up picnic area on the pier w/metal lanterns, navy & beige blankets & pillows.
Food: A small grill w/brats (bratworst….milwaukee thang ;-) ), burgers & of course beer.

So which picnic style is more your style?

Outdoor Oasis…..

Our weather has been up & down lately. 86 degrees one day & 58 literally the next. But I still see people getting their patios, balconies and decks together. No matter how big or small your space is, you should always decorate it because it’s really an extention of your living. If you own property, creating an area to entertain outdoors can boost your resale value. Just don’t do THIS. :-) Let’s indulge…

{Stylize Design}
The potted plants are so nice and appear to be low maintenance. Perfect for those who aren’t into gardening & keeping up with flowers…


{Design Sponge}

{sfgirlbybay.com}

{Kelly Wearstler}
A huge MOROCCAN influence in this Kelly Wearstler design. So much attention to detail to really make this space funtional and comfortable. Adequate seating encourages conversation. The swing bed encourages relaxation. Don’t be afraid to use outdoor rugs to anchor seating arrangements. Flowers aren’t the only ways to add color. Toss pillows, GARDEN STOOLS, lanterns and umbrellas all add vibrant colors…

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