Creating an inviting alfresco space for entertaining is a fantastic way to extend your home’s living areas. An outdoor living room offers a perfect setting for social gatherings, providing a blend of comfort, style, and functionality.
Keep in mind that I don’t own a house, but a condo in Miami. That said, I created an alfresco space on my balcony to host dinners, zen out my meditation routine, and grow some tasty herbs. No matter your environment, find ways to enjoy the outdoors if you can.
Here’s how to design the perfect alfresco room for all your entertaining needs.
Choosing the Right Location
The first step is selecting the right location. Consider areas that offer natural shelter or can easily accommodate structures like pergolas or awnings.
This is particularly important if you live in a climate where the weather can change not only seasonally, but throughout the day. In more volatile weather locales, we highly suggest retractable awnings and weatherproof items.
Proximity to the kitchen is also beneficial for entertaining, making it easier to transport food and drinks. And, of course, it’s advisable to put the furniture including tables and chairs on a deck or solid ground. Avoid putting them on grass or gravel as they will undoubtedly move and get wet more easily with use.
Suggested Items and Brands
Coolaroo Aurora Pergola
Upscale your outdoor entertaining area while protecting friends and family from the intense sun. The Coolaroo Aurora Pergola is a great shade solution that transitions from day to evening and breathable fabric, allowing cool air to filter in.
YITAHOME Patio Retractable Awning
YITAHOME Patio Retractable Awning
YITAHOME is known for producing high-quality home improvement products, focusing on functionality and aesthetics. Their product line includes furniture, storage solutions, and outdoor living essentials, all designed to enhance home environments with innovative and reliable solutions.
Where to Purchase: Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon all offer a variety of pergolas and awnings, available in-store and online.
Comfortable Seating Arrangements
Comfortable seating is crucial as well. Consider a mix of sofas, chairs, and loungers to accommodate different types of gatherings. Weather-resistant materials such as wicker, teak, and metal are ideal for outdoor furniture. Adding cushions and throws can enhance comfort and style.
Suggested Items and Brands
Sofa Set: Christopher Knight Home Oana Outdoor Sofa Set.
Christopher Knight Home Oana Outdoor Sofa Set
Throws: Chanasya Faux Fur Throw Blanket.
Chanasya Faux Fur Throw Blanket
Where to Purchase: Wayfair, Amazon, and Target offer a wide range of stylish and durable seating options.
Creating a Cozy Ambiance
Lighting plays a significant role in creating a welcoming atmosphere for your outdoor living room. String lights, lanterns, and candles can add a warm glow, while solar-powered options are both eco-friendly and convenient. Consider installing a fire pit or outdoor fireplace for a focal point that adds both light and warmth.
Suggested Items and Brands
Lanterns: OxyLED Solar Lantern.
OxyLED Solar Lantern
String Lights: Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof LED Outdoor String Lights.
Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof LED Outdoor String Lights
Fire Pit: Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit.
Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit
Where to Purchase: These items can be found on Amazon, Walmart, and local garden centers.
Functional Elements:
Incorporating functional elements such as outdoor kitchens, bars, and dining areas can elevate your alfresco living room. A built-in grill or portable barbecue is essential for outdoor cooking, while a mini-fridge or cooler keeps beverages chilled. Adding a dining table and chairs creates a dedicated space for meals.
Suggested Items and Brands:
Grill: Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill.
Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill
Dining Set: PHI VILLA Patio Dining Set
Dining Set PHI VILLA Patio Dining Set
Mini-Fridge: NewAir 126 Can Beverage Fridge
NewAir 126 Can Beverage Fridge
Where to Purchase: These products are available at Home Depot, Best Buy, Overstock and Amazon.
Greenery and Decor:
Plants and decor items can bring life and personality to your outdoor living space. Potted plants, hanging baskets, and vertical gardens add greenery and can be arranged to suit your style. Decorative items such as outdoor rugs, cushions, and wall art can tie the look together.
Suggested Items and Brands:
Pots: Classic Home and Garden Honeysuckle Planter.
Classic Home and Garden Honeysuckle Resin Planters
Wall Art: Metal Wall Art from Plow & Hearth.
Metal Wall Art from Plow & Hearth
Rugs: Safavieh Courtyard Collection Outdoor Rug.
Safavieh Courtyard Collection Outdoor Rug
Where to Purchase: These items can be found at Lowe’s, Wayfair, Plow & Hearth and Amazon.
Weather-Proofing Your Space:
To ensure your outdoor living room remains functional year-round, consider weather-proofing elements. Awnings, pergolas, and retractable canopies provide shade and protection from rain. Outdoor heaters or fans can make the space comfortable in varying weather conditions.
Suggested Items and Brands:
Fan: Lasko Outdoor Tower Fan.
Lasko Outdoor Tower Fan
Heater: Amazon Basics Outdoor Patio Heater.
Amazon Basics Outdoor Patio Heater
Canopy: Alvantor Pop-Up Canopy Tent.
Alvantor Pop-Up Canopy Tent
Where to Purchase: Available at Amazon, Walmart, and Costco.
Entertainment Options:
To make your outdoor living room a true entertaining haven, incorporate various entertainment options. An outdoor TV or projector screen can be great for movie nights or watching sports. Wireless speakers and a robust Wi-Fi connection ensure music and connectivity are always available.
Suggested Items and Brands:
Projector: Anker Nebula Solar Portable Projector.
Anker Nebula Solar Portable Projector
TV: SunBriteTV Veranda Series Outdoor TV.
Sunbrite TV Veranda
Speakers: Bose SoundLink Revolve+.
Bose SoundLink Revolve+
Where to Purchase: Best Buy, Amazon, and Target offer a variety of outdoor entertainment products.
Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Outdoor Space:
Maintaining your outdoor living room is key to its longevity and usability. Regular cleaning, covering furniture when not in use, and storing cushions and decor during bad weather will keep everything in top condition. Choosing durable, weather-resistant materials from the start will reduce the need for frequent replacements.
Suggested Items and Brands:
Furniture Covers: Duck Covers Ultimate Patio Furniture Cover.
Duck Covers Ultimate Patio Furniture Cover
Cleaning Supplies: Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner.
Simple Green Outdoor Cleaner
Storage Boxes: Keter Westwood Outdoor Storage Box.
Keter Westwood Outdoor Storage Box
Where to Purchase: These products can be found at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon.
