Oh The Great Outdoors...

Happy Friday everyone!  I'm writing this post sitting by my window looking at the rain and wind whipping through my neighborhood and wishing for the summertime to be here!  Instead of going to happy hour tonight with friends inside by a fire (which is very cozy, don't get me wrong) I could be sitting outside in my backyard enjoying a bbq and sipping blood orange cocktails! Here are a few outdoor designs that have been calling my name as of late...

Simple and Casual with a Twist!

A great tip for choosing outdoor furniture is to pick pieces that evoke an interior feel. 

Understated with an earthy vibe... I love how they used a tree stump for an  end table!

Tailored furnishings allow the view to be the focal point.  Draperies outside also add another element and texture to an outdoor space... P.S. If I had this view to look at every day, I would be one happy woman!

Using potted plants as accessories adds a charming feel to the space! Look at how genius the potted plant "chandelier" is!!

All I have to say is... without vines, this backyard would be just OK.  If you don't have any vines on your house/fence plant them immediately! In 2 to 3 years, you will be glad you did!

Jungle Book meets Hollywood Glam.  I adore the pink upholstered lounging areas off of the pool! Beautifully Romantic and bohemian!

Have an old wood deck that needs refinishing? Before you re-stain the wood, try painting a pattern on it to create an interesting area rug as your new focal point!

I want to be on that inter tube right this very minute! 

Lush hedges and greenery really make this space inviting and beautiful! Notice again, the use of interior furnishings!  Oh... also,  the gravel makes for an almost European garden look!

I love the drapery and tassel detail... it really completes the look.  Don't you think?

The more pillows the better!

I would definitely have a dinner party in this backyard! I really like the use of potted plants and how they made their fence a focal point!

LOVE... I feel more relaxed just looking at this pic!

Now this is the way I would like to go camping!

Hopefully this got you dreaming of summertime!! Happy Weekend!