Backyard Oasis: Designing An Outdoor Oasis for Entertaining
Photo by Cynthia Ferguson Designs
I can feel it! Summer is here! With the first day of June upon us, the “official” green light to kick-off outdoor entertaining season in Toronto has arrived and I could not be more thrilled! I have been patiently waiting for what feels like forever to break out the linens, tea lights, and gas-lit lanterns to throw a garden party bonanza en plein air.
So without further ado, let’s dive in! Headfirst or feet first, it doesn’t matter because these backyard oases are swimming with brilliant ideas for your summertime goals!
Cool by the Pool
Photo by Kim Jeffrey
Nothing says “SUMMAH” more than a cool pool moment. I love making a splash when it comes to backyard design. I always opt for clean edges, but I can never resist a Maximalist moment with levels and layers. Consider your pool “sea level” and create elevation changes with raised beds, waterfalls, and concrete surrounds. They make the perfect platforms to cannonball into summer! No bellyflops here.
Throw Shade
Photo by Kim Jeffrey
I’m all about the SPF, but sometimes a reprieve from the sun is a welcome change of pace. Planting trees that surround your oasis is my go-to way of adding the perfect amount of shade and light. But if you have the space, I love how pergolas, gazebos, and arbours cast a perfect shadow for a shady cocktail and mocktail tipple with friends!
Urban Oasis
Photo by Donna Griffith
Being in the city doesn’t mean you need a ton of real estate to go big with your backyard design! Staying close to home can be the ultimate escape when you have a spot to lounge, relax, and unwind. My tip for yards, patios, decks, and even condo balconies? Create a lounging area with texture, colour, pattern, and greenery with wild abandon. It doesn’t take much to create an urban escape…even if it’s the size of a postage stamp!
Dining Al Fresco
Photo by Donna Griffith
Is there anything better than dining under the stars? I long for romantic summer suppers out on the patio stones. Bringing it all together is as easy as setting up a simple folding table, grabbing a couple of dining chairs from inside, and draping things with a tablecloth. To add a bit of fun, I edged this Lee Jofa fabric tablecloth with black grosgrain ribbon and set it with flowers picked right from my garden!
Bring the Outside In
Photo by Donna Griffith
If the outdoors aren’t your speed, create a summer room! We had the pleasure of designing this indoor-outdoor living room for dear friends out in Haliburton. It’s the absolute winner for extending the “outdoor living” lifestyle well beyond the summer months. Layered in fabulous seating opinions and accesses, it’s the best “seat in the house” come cocktail time and the best defence system come allergy season!
So what are you waiting for!? Ready for your own slice of heaven? We love collaborating on outdoor spaces. Reach out if we can help you plan your outdoor oasis. Summer is waiting!
XO,