Al Fresco: Outdoor Living Setups

Warm summer nights are upon us. Patio doors are begging to be opened and furniture is ready to be dusted of cobwebs. It’s time to get back to utilizing our outdoor spaces. Having been a number of months since weather permitted outdoor porch enjoyment, it’s likely your space needs some TLC. Even if that just means rearranging furniture, we’re here with some inspiration from our favorite outdoor living setups. 

Photo by Gibeon Photography

For this pavilion, created with indoor and outdoor activities in mind, designer Heidi Tate selected an RH sectional, Rene Cezares bench and a quartet of Four Hands black leather chairs to fill the interior sitting area. Outside, the sofa and chairs that surround the custom fire pit are David Sutherland for RH. See more at A Lakeside Pavilion Perfect for a Party.

Photo by Joel Riner Photography

Homeowners used to want a simple deck or patio. “Now they want outdoor rooms, says architect John Galambos, based in Aspen, Colorado. He created multiple such spots at a residence for one family, including areas to sit by the fire, dine, swim and lounge, all connected by walkways and plant-laden paths. See more at Where The Livin’ is Easy.

Photo courtesy of Pearson Design Group

A rustic look is maintained while making a patio both an indoor and outdoor space. Windows manually raise around the bar to open up the area in the warm summer months. See more at Summertime at the Lake.

Photo courtesy of Stillwater Architecture

The living room’s pocket doors open to provide a seamless indoor-outdoor connection and uninterrupted views of the site. See more at A Jetsetters Lakefront Montana Getaway.

Photo by Gibeon Photography

A hot tub is located within the infinity-edge pool, which extends the line of sight into the expansive mountain views beyond enhancing the experience with the sounds of flowing water. The pool is heated, as are snowmelt pathways, allowing for this outdoor Aspen oasis to be enjoyed year-round. See more at 5 Aspen Homes with the Ultimate Luxury.

Photo by Whitney Kamman

The architecture, porch swing and macrame owl are definite attention-getters. “People stop by all the time to say, ‘This is the most beautiful house,’” says the homeowner. When creating an outdoor space to enjoy, sometimes less is more. See more at An Empty Nester’s Bozeman Abode.

Photo by James Ray Spahn

Bring the dinner party outdoors for an alfresco evening. In Crested Butte, the homeowners wanted to achieve a cozy feel that beckons you in. With soft pillows and cushions, dinner guests can comfortably enjoy their evening outdoors. See more at A Light-Filled Retreat in Crested Butte.

Photo by Kimberly Gavin

Architect Jeff Manley designed the outdoor living spaces to step down to the lake. Come sundown, the fire pit is a kid magnet and optimal place for roasting marshmallows. Outdoor dining occurs around the aluminum table by Front Gate. See more at A Colorado Mountain Home with Farmhouse Flavor.

Photo by Gibeon Photography

Built on an angle from the house, the covered porch features a black metal-clad fireplace with a reclaimed wood mantel. See more at Small Town Charm and Mountain Views.

Photo by Tuck Fauntleroy

By weaving different textures into this cozy porch nook, the space immediately becomes elevated. See more at A Teton Home with Heritage.

Photo by Gibeon Photography

Outfitted with sleek glass railings that ensure unobstructed treetop views, built-in ceiling heaters and a rustic stone fireplace perfect for crackling blazes, the covered back porch can be comfortably used and enjoyed for the better part of the year. See more at A Modern Mountain Masterpiece in Whitefish.