All Decked Out-Redesigning and Staging Outdoor Rooms

Home sellers tend to overlook the fact that their outdoor spaces can be prime real estate for showcasing.  It doesn't need to be difficult or expensive to enhance your "outdoor room", as the following example shows.

Whether you have a small balcony or patio, or a deck the size of a small airport landing strip, you can take advantage of the space you have and turn it into a private escape with an outdoor room makeover.

This is the first of a series of outdoor room redesigns and stagings meant to illustrate common situations and how they may be transformed.  It's a true redesign-the makeover was accomplished using only what existed in the home. Obviously, not every home will have the exact accessories needed, and as in this example, stand-ins were used to highlight what was needed to complete the look.

The medium sized deck with basic outdoor furniture was originally arranged with a large open space for gathering. Seating lined the railing, creating a void. The color of green unified the various pieces but also contributed to the somewhat rigid and ordinary feel. The grill, serving cart, table and chairs were crowded together in the far end of the deck in an attempt to make them more convenient and to create a dining area.  Instead, it made the deck seem smaller than it was. The space was certainly large enough but awkwardly arranged and felt uninviting.

After

To make the most of all of the available space, zones were created for grilling, dining, entertaining, serving and for conversation, with plenty of room for moving about. Spreading the furniture out in this way actually made the deck seem even larger because of the amount of room between each zone. 

The electric grill was relocated to provide a safe buffer zone between it and guests. The serving cart became accessible to both grilling and entertaining areas, ready to be rolled into the dining area when needed. A conversation grouping makes better use of the open space and beckons visitors.

Weather resistant accessories were selected from the home's furnishings to add color, comfort and interest. The green of the furnishings became the perfect neutral backdrop to the patterns and textures. The eclectic mix created a better transition between the feel of the house and the outdoor room.  For the reveal, the deck was dressed for an evening meal with drinks and appetizers while dinner was cooking on the grill.

The result is an extension of the house that is multi-purpose, functional, attractive and welcoming. This deck makeover took a little over an hour. What a difference it made even without the exact pillows and accessories.  When a deck or patio is staged or redesigned, people are more apt to walk out and lingered, discussing what a great space it is rather than just peering out of the door at it or taking a cursory look. 

This somewhat forgettable deck became memorable with just a little bit of redesign and staging. Make the most of your indoor and outdoor spaces when selling your home!