Summer. What a wonderful season filled with cool breezes, warm sunshine and glistening water. So why stay inside?  

The line between indoors and outdoors continues to blur as many of us want to take outdoors the comforts and solitude of indoors.  This concept is becoming more realistic as many manufacturers of home products develop more and more appliances, furniture, lighting and accessories that can be used indoors or out.

People are driven to find peaceful sanctuaries as a prescription for their stressful lives. Outdoor patios and porches are becoming more sophisticated and refined, living extensions of indoor spaces.

Outdoor furniture has greatly evolved from the folding, vinyl strap versions of the past to beautiful pieces made of teak, steel, rattan and wicker. Many pieces look just like indoor furniture but are constructed and designed to take the outdoor elements. Fabrics such as Sunbrella are making a name for themselves in the outdoor furniture industry.

Lighting is also a very important aspect to creating an inviting outdoor space. Be sure you incorporate various types of lighting in your outdoor space just as you would your indoor spaces. Landscape lighting, overhead lighting, ceiling fans or decorative side lighting are good ideas.  Developing a creative lighting plan can help you create a space with increased ambiance and functionality.

Remember to create a space that is perfect for you and your needs, and then sit back and enjoy it!