Tag Archives: outdoor furniture

Popular Patio Furniture Trends & Ideas for Kansas City

The warm weather seems to be hanging on in Kansas City and if you’re still thinking about your patio furniture, you will want to know what’s hot for next spring.

Gray is taking over

Neutral colors don’t always inspire enthusiasm, but this year’s furniture designs using gray are startlingly crisp. You can tone down those harsh blacks and still give your patio a clean look.

Love those curves
This year, patio furniture makers have loosened up their lines, and the results vary from sensual to elegant to pleasantly relaxed.

Surfaces
Patio tables and dining sets featuring concrete, mosaic and distressed surfaces are lending visual texture. You should also look at durable, low-maintenance resin wicker (both natural and glass-topped)

Mixed Media
The creative use of mixed media is a breakout trend that deserves attention. Table and chair combinations such as wrought iron and wicker, concrete and metal, or trios such as aluminum, wicker, and faux stone or aluminum, wicker, and faux wood bring sophistication to outdoor decorating.

Now that you have put together your outdoor décor, wouldn’t it look better on a custom deck from Outdoor Environment s. Call us at 913-897-2706 or visit www.outdoorenvironments.com.

Photo by osseous on Flickr.

 

Cleaning and Storing Teak Furniture

Of all the outdoor furniture materials out there, teak is one of the most popular. In fact, it’s used more often than any other wood for outdoor furniture. Teak will last a lifetime, but you’ve got to maintain it properly. But how? Here are a few tips to get your teak cleaned and stored for the end of the season.

  1. Clean – Scrub with warm water, a light detergent and a soft bristle brush.
  2. Sand – Using a medium grit sanding block, sand the teak to even out the top layer of wood. Make sure that the color is even throughout.
  3. Dry – Allow teak to completely dry for a few days.
  4. Oil – In a well-ventilated area and using rubber gloves, lightly brush teak oil all over furniture. About three or four layers should do. Keep applying oil until you achieve the darkness and color you are going for.
  5. Seal – Apply a few coats of polyurethane to seal the oil. Let it dry for a few days.
  6. Store – Cover furniture and place it in an unheated garage or shed for the winter.

 

 

 

 

 

Image and information from Apartment Therapy

Create Your Own Backyard Wicker World

Centuries ago, wicker was the primary material used to craft various items in ancient Egypt and China. But it wasn’t until the 1800s that woven-rattan became a mainstay in the United States. The Victorian motif that wicker often personifies has made it a stylish addition to both indoor and outdoor rooms.

Wicker is timeless and can be mixed with many different materials, finishes and colors. It’s also very durable although it does need to be sheltered from natural outdoor elements. These days, many furniture manufacturers are giving wicker a more diverse, modern twist which makes it even more appealing to the average consumer. It’s also a great furniture choice no matter what outdoor seating trends are hot right now.

If you need some wicker inspiration, take a look at these modern twists on an old time favorite!

Outdoor Environments wants to know: Do you own wicker furniture? Leave a comment below!

Images and information from Elle Decor

Understanding the 5 Pillars of Outdoor Design

There are many serious considerations to ponder when implementing a new outdoor design at home, particularly during the planning phase. To get a better idea about what outdoor living should be, we’ve summarized the Five Pillars of Outdoor Living Design, courtesy of Residential Design + Build.

Build for the ages

An authentic outdoor living space will never adhere to the cookie-cutter layout that many neighborhoods and subdivisions have succumbed to in recent years. The mass construction of these areas is often done with sub-par materials that will not stand the test of time. The worst part is when those materials look just as mediocre as they are. Are the materials durable and long-lasting? Will the project look as relevant in the future as it does today?

Invent within the rules

Look to other long-standing projects to see what kinds of elements and features were incorporated. You’ll find that a lot of the same rules and concepts apply to almost every outdoor living space you study. Is the space consistent and proportioned? Is it inviting? Can you see evidence of quality and attention to detail?

Respect, complement nature

Now commonly referred to as sustainable design, a good outdoor living space does little to disrupt its surrounding landscape. Making an outdoor design blend in the natural landscape can benefit a project both financially and visually. Is the design environmentally responsible? Do the man-made elements and colors blend well with the existing landscape?

Detail for authenticity

Authenticity and consistency are both key in creating an outdoor oasis that works. Using premium materials for some features and below-standard materials for others will show an overall less than perfect job. Has every detail of the project been maximized?

Incorporate convenience

Outdoor spaces must easily facilitate the lifestyle of those who will be in that space often. Subsequently, these areas must be built for future expansion. Such elements may include LED lighting, water features, wireless networking, sound systems and more. Does the project fit in with the consumer’s lifestyle? Does it allow for future development?

Get started with your outdoor oasis by calling Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today. We specialize in decks, patios, gazebos, pergolas, shade arbors, porches, fireplaces/fire pits and more!

Image from Elle Decor’s Look Book

Outdoor Furniture 101

Trendy outdoor furniture pieces are the key to bringing your deck or patio to life. No matter what your budget, style or preference, there’s an outdoor furniture option out there for you. Have you considered these types?

If you want traditional:

Wicker – There are typically two types of wicker outdoor furniture: regular and all-weather. Regular wicker can only be used in covered outdoor areas. All-weather wicker, on the other hand, will not get damaged when exposed to mild weather conditions.

If you want sophistication:

Wrought iron – Though it is very heavy and difficult to move around, wrought iron outdoor furniture is ideal for windy areas. Adding bright cushions is a necessity since the finish typically only comes in black, green or white.

If you like the natural look:

Wood – The best quality wood patio furniture is made from center-cut heartwood lumber with consistent wood grain. It should also have zinc-plated or stainless steel screws that can be tightened in case they ever loosen.

If you want convenience:

Resin – Just another name for plastic, resin outdoor furniture is cheap, durable, easy to maintain and move around. Resin furniture is very light weight, so it’s not recommended for windy climates. One other drawback is that all resin furniture virtually looks alike.

If you want durability:

Metal – One of the most popular materials for outdoor furniture, metal is extremely strong while achieving many different looks and styles.

Do you need help creating your outdoor living area? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today.

Information from BHG

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Want a Deck? Here’s A Few Thoughts to Ponder

If you have an eye on a new deck add-on for your home, now is the perfect time to start planning and brainstorming. Waiting too long can possibly delay your deck installation and before you know it, the cool fall weather will be here again. Don’t let time pass you by! Here are just a few general ideas to get you started with identifying your deck needs:

  • What will your deck be used for? The purpose of your deck, whether it be simple relaxation or lively entertainment, will weigh heavily on its placement and how it is designed.
  • Decide your style. There are many different ways to go here. You can choose to do something bold and unique, or design your deck much like an existing room inside your home.
  • Start thinking about deck features you might be interested in – furniture, tables, kitchen area, fire pit, etc.
  • What lies beneath? You may not be able to see wiring, drainage systems and gas lines, but they are there. So don’t be surprised if you deck can’t be placed in your desired location. Safety first!

Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 to get started with planning your deck in the Overland Park or Kansas City area.

Photo courtesy of Outdoor Environments’ Facebook Photo Gallery

5 Features Your Backyard Will Need This Spring

We know the weather outside is still frightful, but that’s no excuse for letting your home’s outdoor space go without a makeover for the New Year. There are plenty of ways to prepare your backyard for the warm weather that is only weeks away. So, what exactly do you need to get started? Here are a few product ideas that will turn your outdoor living space into a relaxing retreat.
BEFORE:
Single or multi-level decks added to the rear or side of your home can create an endless number of possibilities. Decks can be built using many types of wood, fiberglass, vinyl and even recycled materials like plastic.
A hearth is a heating option used for outdoor living spaces. Fireplaces (wood or gas) and firepits offer the warmth and coziness you need during the cold winter months, but they’re also perfect for cool nights during the spring, summer and fall.
Outdoor furniture is a must if you plan to truly enjoy your backyard area.  Create an lovely oasis with lounge chairs, tables, umbrellas, a hammock and other comfortable furnishings.
Gazebos, sun-screened rooms, and awnings all provide wonderful shaded shelter for any time of the year. Be shielded from the scorching summer sun or protected from cold wind and rain.
No outdoor living area is complete without some type of water feature. A swimming pool is the obvious choice here. But you can always take it a step further with a spa, hot tub, Jacuzzi or even a pond with a waterfall.
AFTER:
Are you ready to get your outdoor living area ready for spring 2011? Call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!

Shop now for your outdoors

You finally have the outdoor living area of your dreams now all you need to do is accessorize to add your own personal style to the space. We know that you probably aren’t enjoying the area as much as you’d like since the weather here in Kansas has turned colder, but that doesn’t mean that come spring you can have the perfect place to lounge outside. Now is a great time to buy outdoor furniture and accessories with all the holiday sales and discounts. We have pulled together a few of our favorite must have accessories for your outdoor environments.

If you haven’t already done so you’ll need to purchase your patio or deck furniture. We love the look of this room below from House Beautiful. This outdoor living room is like another extension of your home.

From House Beautiful

Add a pop of color to your outdoors with these below accessories. The pillow and rugs will surely bring some needed pizzazz to any neutral palette. And the candles and lanterns are also a must have for your outdoors.

via Shelterpop

We’d love to hear any deals you have seen on outdoor furniture.

4 Ways to Care for Your Outdoor Furniture

Extend the life of your outdoor furniture this season by properly caring for it. Below are 4 tips on how to care for your outdoor furniture.

  1. Properly clean your outdoor furniture several times each year. If you have wood outdoor furniture than you should buy specific cleaner so you don’t ruin the finish.
  2. Make sure you protect your outdoor furniture with waterproof covers during the winter months. The covers will not only protect your furniture from the elements, but will prevent sun damage.
  3. Re-stain, paint and seal your furniture when needed.
  4. Check all the hardware on the furniture to make sure there aren’t any loose bolts or missing pieces.

Like anything you own, the better care you take of an item, the longer it will last. We’d love to hear any tips you might have for caring for your outdoor furniture, please leave your comments below.

Outdoor Furniture 101

We were recently on House and Home and discovered some great tips on how to select the perfect outdoor furniture set for your backyard.  When choosing an outdoor furniture set you need to consider all the options and your climate.  Do you want something that is more durable than most?  Do you want to purchase furniture that is easy to care for?  Are you looking for something that if more cost effective?

Check out the article on House and Home and see for yourself which of the types of materials mentioned would work best for you!