What Is the Key to Creating Indoor Outdoor Living Spaces That Flow?

If you love to entertain and spend time outside, an indoor-outdoor living space is a perfect solution.

These welcoming spaces combine the comforts of home with the beauty and freedom of being in nature.

In order to create the most appealing space, you need it to flow. Read on to learn how you can create a seamless space that combines the warmth of indoors with the beauty of outdoors.

Use Glass for a Seamless Flow

Incorporating glass into your indoor-outdoor living area is a fantastic way to create a sense of flow. Whether you want to gaze at the beautiful view from the outside or create a sense of a “floating barrier” between the two spaces, glass can serve you well.

Try a large, pivoting glass door at the back of your home that separates the interior area from the exterior.

You can open the door whenever you want to bring fresh air in, and it allows guests to saunter between the two spaces with ease.

A big glass wall or door will make it feel like you’re always outside, even when you’re spending time indoors.

And when you encounter inclement weather or you’re turning in for the night, you simply close it to keep the outdoors at bay.

Another way to use glass is to create a corner window wall. This design brings the outside in while offering a wider view.

Consider installing windows that go from the floor to the ceiling. This gives the illusion of height and provides you with a better view of the outdoor area.

Large doors and windows made of glass will help you create a connection between the indoors and the outside. It’s also a fantastic way to let in tons of natural light.

Keep the Indoor Outdoor Living Areas Covered

For those who enjoy spending a lot of time outside, providing cover is a wise option. Whether you choose to extend your roofline or add a pergola, a cover will give you shade and keep you sheltered.

You can partially cover your patio or go all the way out to really create an extension of the interior room. It’s also a good way to protect your outdoor furniture from sun fading and weather wear.

A solid, permanent extension of the roof will create the seamless look you’re seeking, but it’s also more expensive. If you want to provide cover on a budget, consider adding expandable canvas canopies that can retract when you don’t need them.

If you enjoy entertaining during the summer but don’t find that you hang outside in the colder months, a shade sail works well.

Any type of cover you can extend from the indoor to the outdoor area will add functionality and a sense of flow to any space.

Extend Flooring for Better Flow

A great way to create a seamless flow is to extend the interior flooring to the outside. While this might not always be possible due to weather, you can always install something similar in terms of color and style.

When your flooring looks consistent, it instantly gives the feeling of seamless space. It also helps to make the outside area feel more homey and similar to an indoor room.

Try a durable tile like travertine that can hold up to heavy use and outdoor conditions.

Stamped concrete or pavers are other options that can give the space a sense of flow and warmth.

Paving stones can give your home a touch of rustic charm, and they come in a huge assortment of colors and styles.

Arrange the pavers however you like to give the space an additional touch of architectural appeal.

Bring Your Indoor Furnishings Outside

No, you don’t want to use your living room sofa as outdoor furniture. However, today’s outdoor furnishings have the same beauty as indoor versions while being made to easily withstand the elements.

Create an outdoor living room that includes durable furniture like sofas, chairs, tables, and loveseats.

This creates a conversation area where everyone will want to gather and chat.

An outdoor rug is another fabulous addition that gives the space an interior look. These rugs are available in any color scheme and pattern you can imagine, so get creative and place one under the outdoor furniture.

You can also create an outdoor kitchen where you can grill food and serve drinks without having to run back inside.

These spaces are perfect for people who love to cook and share meals on an outdoor table in the fresh air.

Install a built-in grill with countertops so you have a place to work and prep. Outdoor fridges are the ideal place to stash wine, beer, and other beverages so they stay cold until ready to serve.

With an outdoor kitchen, you’re creating a place that everyone will want to gather.

Combine that with comfortable furniture, and you’ve instantly created an indoor-outdoor space. You can see here for inspiration and ideas.

Melding the Inside with the Outdoors

Whether you install a large glass door or just add some outdoor furniture pieces, it’s easy to create a seamless transition between the two spaces.

Combine a covering with an outdoor kitchen and you’ll have an incredible indoor-outdoor living space that flows.

With a seamless transition between the inside and the great outdoors, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit our website to schedule a consultation or to see some ideas that will get you started on the space of your dreams.