It is the accessories and accents that can make the space exclusively yours. Some of the things to consider are: potted plants, landscape lights, decorative lighting, candles, patio heaters, outdoor speakers, and pillows.
Some of the higher end accessories being used in outdoor living areas include high-tech stereo systems with a built-in sound system. Outdoor stoves, refrigerators, outdoor warming drawers, wine chillers, and a gas-powered wok are among the appliances showing up in the backyard.
Fireplaces are taking on new characteristics, too. Place a two-sided, see through fireplace in the wall between the indoor and the outdoor family room or between the outdoor family room and the cabana. Enjoy a fireplace that doubles as a mirror when not in use. There are fireplaces now that were designed specifically for outdoor use. Heat-N-Glo is making an outdoor gas fireplace made of stainless steel. It uses fake concrete logs so there will be no messy ashes to take care of. These smoke free fireplaces can be used in screened-in porches, gazebos and lanais. Consider a freestanding stove with an aromatherapy feature, a low-emission wood burning fireplace with automatic features, or a gas fireplace with 30-inch-high flames.
Water and rock are always popular, whether it is in the form of spas, pools, rock gardens, waterfalls, creeks, or ponds. Add a shelter: a gazebo, awning, umbrellas, a cabana, or pool house. Other amenities may include a cocktail bar, brick pizza ovens, or storage supply for wood. For the very sophisticated tastes there are antiques and art pieces, even chandeliers, being used in the garden.
For those of us who would like to have our backyards be comfortable friendly places, but don't have any intention of spending $25,000 furnishing the outdoors, there are other options.
You can achieve many of the things you want in your outdoor room. The key elements to an "official" outdoor room are fire, food and water. Set a realistic budget and plan to do some of the work yourself. The flexibility of these rooms allows you to have flexibility in the amount you spend to achieve your goal. Don't get pushed into making changes just for the sake of change. If your patio furniture is still in good condition, keep it awhile longer. Trends and styles change every year. Only the extremely rich can keep up with all the changes, the rest of us try to buy good quality and make it last.
