Its that time of the year again, where we end up spending just as much time outside as we do indoors. So why not make your outdoor space as comfy as possible. Rugs and fabrics have moved from beyond the four walls of our dens to the outdoor patios and decks we so enjoy during the warmer months.
Outdoor rugs have really taken the industry by storm in the past several years. At first, there were only a handful of choices when it came to color and texture. Now the choices are seemingly endless. Don't limit yourself to neutrals, take a chance with color and patterns. Your outdoor space can be an extension of the color scheme you have inside your home or it can be a place where you take a chance, go bold, and run with a wild array of colors. The latest and greatest outdoor carpets come in a variety of pre-cut sizes or they can be cut to fit a challenging space. The designs are limitless and it seems that anything goes when it comes to patterns and designs. There are traditional rugs that can go with any decor, indoor or out. Then there are outrageous patterns like chevron, stripes, circles and paisley's in every color you could dream up. Be creative and have fun with your choices.
Regardless of the style you choose, there are a few key points that you want to remember when purchasing a new outdoor rug. Be sure that the company you choose to purchase the rug from uses weather resistant fabrics and colors. The last thing you want is to spend money on a rug that doesn't make it past the first rainstorm. Many companies will use fabrics and dyes that are very resistant to fading from the intense sunshine during our warmest months. Another great feature of an outdoor rug is when they are mildew-resistant. Whenever you combine water and heat, mildew will follow. Many rugs also boast a simple method of cleaning such as just hosing them off with your garden hose. This is great for unexpected spills and dirt. I recommend getting a pad for under your carpet. This will help it to wear more evenly and feel much more cushioned against bare feet. Padding protects your rug and makes it feel great under foot. One common mistake that I see homeowners and clients make, is that they forget to cover the feet or legs of their outdoor furniture and the end-result is usually rust marks all over their brand new rugs. This is an easy mistake to make but its also a really easy and cheap fix. Buy a couple of packages of rubber or plastic covers from your local hardware or home store. They basically protect your floors, rugs and furniture from nasty rust stains and scratches.
After you have beautified your outdoor patio floor, look around your space to find other places where you can bring a pop of color. Outdoor fabrics have come a long way. They can be fade resistant, water resistant and even comfortable at the same time. Pillows are a great way to add color, texture and comfort to your outdoor furnituire. Another great option is to add a few fabric ottomans. Not only do they act as a great place to rest your feet in the warm sun but they become extra seating in a pinch and are great places to place a tray of appetizers or drinks. As long as the ottomans and pillows are covered in fabrics that are specifically meant to be used outdoors, your good to go. And a bonus, if you werent brave enough to choose a bold pattern or color for your outdoor rug, you can do it in accents with pillows and ottomans.
The best thing about the time we get to spend outdoors is enjoying our outdoor space and the company surrounding us. You can really take a chance outdoors where the vibrant colors of Mother Nature are all around you to give you inspiration. If you choose your textiles carefully, you can even use them indoors long after the summer months have faded. Enjoy!
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