In the year 2015, we will see a growing trend towards outdoor living – the distinction between outdoors and indoors slightly fading. Your backyard is likely to be filled with pieces similar to those you have indoors.

To create the illusion of a vacation in the backyard, consumers are getting creative. People now want to open doors and expand their living into the great outdoors. To integrate the two spaces, sections of wall leading to the patio are being knocked down to install large picture windows, glass walls or sliding doors. It is about blending different outdoor design disciplines and philosophies that influence you. The options in the designing and how to go about it, are quite many in number. All one needs to do is to apply it aesthetically.

Here are some ways to beautify your outdoor space and make it cozier so you will never want to leave home.

Sitting Area

The outdoor sitting area contains furniture that stands the test of time (wood, aluminum, wicker and wrought iron). Wicker furniture or adirondack chairs, outdoor fabrics which are soil and stain resistant, and outdoor waterproof rugs coming in geometric patterns, animal and floral prints, are among the common choices.

Limitation of space can be a hurdle for outdoor living since the covered space counts for the value of the property, making people leave less or no space outdoors, depending upon the size, of course. A living space on the rooftop is a way to create an alternate and have the space you want.

The Glorified Campfire

Extend the season of outdoor living with built-in fireplaces and fire pits. The sturdy stone walls of a built-in fire pit contain the flames and heat, giving the look of a glorified campfire. Fire rocks, cannon balls or wood is used to fire it up.

Outdoor Eating Station

Along with furniture, the kitchens and dining areas have also made their way outdoors. The outdoor kitchens now have built-in appliances, drawers and hidden storage.

The holiday season brings the grills out which is considered an important accessory for entertaining guests. Gas, charcoal, or electric? Portable or stationary? Rotisserie, infrared burners or a pizza stone? The outdoor chef is now surrounded by a number of choices.

Bathing Alfresco

If you have the will to push an outdoor project into reality, you can have the luxury to clear your eyes in that spectacular ambient lighting through a luxuriant shower or bathtub installed outdoors.

Water Features

A water feature is one of those nature inspired elements which add beauty and tranquility to your outdoor area. The options vary from simple to grand, whatever is suitable for the size or space you have. A limited space may boast a wall-mounted feature while fountains and pond features are best suited for larger outdoor areas.

Garden Lighting – Not an Afterthought

Let lanterns, lighting in trees illuminate the outdoor area.

Organic Shapes

As our modern homes are gravitating towards crisper and cleaner looks, we are adding accents of natural looking materials. We see gloopy looking forms so well blended they appear look to have just ‘happened’ or grown in the space, which is a step ahead of those rounded shapes. This trend has mostly been seen in ceramics, lighting, glassware and accessories.

Wood-Slat Storage Bench

Among those perfectly maintained shrubs, trees and perennials combined with well-crafted art should be a storage bench serving as functional outdoor seating while providing a place to stash all the gear, be it the pillows and cushions, the tools needed for the garden or pool supplies.