A great patio or deck is the perfect spot for entertaining family and friends on those warm summer nights. Or just a place to relax during a lovely day with a coffee and a good book.
This is the perfect time to get your patio or deck ready for the upcoming season, says Heather Mallard, who along with siblings Scott Switzer and Karen Switzer operates Severn TimberMart, Home and Cottage Interiors, and Brechin TimberMart.
One of the first considerations is ensuring your furnishings are sized to your space.
“Having a well-planned outdoor living space means having the right sized furniture and barbecue,” says Heather. “You want your furnishings to be strong, durable and beautiful, but also to fit the space well.”
Home and Cottage Interiors by TimberMart has a range of options to fit almost any sized deck. However, Heather says before buying an item, it’s important to measure your space and decide where everything will fit.
For instance, a small 225-square-foot deck may look its best with just a table and umbrella, four chairs, and a barbecue. However, a 500-square-foot patio might also include an outdoor couch, a small fire table, and planters.
“Don’t go overboard and try to cram too much into a limited space,” says Heather. “It won’t be functional, and it definitely will not look right. There needs to be ample walking space, leg room and even standing areas to stretch your legs.”
Also take into consideration how many people will be using the space: you’ll need enough seating and table space to make it a comfortable gathering … especially during COVID times where social distancing may be required.
While she notes that a good staining or painting is often required to keep up a patio or deck, it’s also important to update your outdoor furniture and accessories every so often. Treating it like an extension of your home or cottage, rather than its own entity will provide inspiration.
“Match like colours and themes for a seamless flow,” says Heather. “If you have a contemporary vibe going throughout your home or cottage, keep it going on the exterior as well. After an interior renovation, think about what the exterior looks like as well. This will give both the interior and exterior the same feel.”
The team at Home and Cottage Interiors by Severn TimberMart can help you make the right decisions and provide everything you need to outfit your patio or deck in time for summer. After all, there is no time like the present to maximize the enjoyment of your outdoor living space.
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI | PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
