During COVID-19, we’re all tired of being indoors so this week we’re discussing how to create an outdoor flex space. This allows you to spend more time outdoors even if you can’t get away. Ideas and Themes for Outdoor Flex Rooms The City Backyard Living in the city may not provide as much green space as you want, but you can still create a lovely outdoor space. Think about your desired layout and divide the area into zones. Place your BBQ and dining table near the kitchen entrance so you can easily bring food in and out. Considering adding a bench or a swing by a shaded tree for a relaxing place to read. If there is space, add an outdoor sofa and chairs as a lounge area. The Screened-In Porch Transform a screened-in porch into an outdoor living room or sunroom. It’s the perfect room to combine the best of the indoors and outdoors. It’s the ideal spot for lounging so you can set a day bed in there, but also put rattan or wicker furniture that survives the outdoor elements better. Consider installing a retractable screen, which lets you enjoy closed screens and no bugs when you’re napping and a totally open screen when you want to extend it into your backyard. The Pool If you have a swimming pool, you can make it a more functional space by adding an outdoor dining area and chaise loungers around it.  Consider finding some functional storage as well. If your budget allows, you may want to build a pool house, where there are extra changing and bathrooms inside. Basic Tips for Creating Your Outdoor Space No matter how you design your outdoor flex space, here are some basic tips that will help you with your design:

• Use nature as your guide. Think about the best things about your backyard—the plants, the hammock, the location of the sun, and build a simple plan around that.
• Use Vertical Space. If you’re short on vertical space because you live in a condo, consider adding more vertical space, such as a lattice privacy wall. It adds privacy between your neighbors and makes it easy to add shelves to display your plants.
• Buy dual-purpose furniture. Select a buffet table that’s perfect for serving outdoor Sunday brunch but also doubles as a poolside bar.

This completes our series of adapting homes during COVID-19. If you have any questions, please contact Refresh Organizers & Designers at (510) 570-1292.