Especially obvious on gorgeous summer days, the desire to have well connected indoor and outdoor spaces is strong. With our weather, we’ve learned to get out when you can, however, with the right design plan, you can extend the enjoyment of your home without regard to the five day forecast.

Uniform Flooring
Select a similar or complimentary flooring for indoor and outdoor that eases the transition between the two spaces. We recommend both to be textured or anti-slip. If your space allows, we suggest keeping the level inside and outside your threshold the same height. This can reduce tripping and falling hazards both for you and guests.

Curate Your View
Whether your home overlooks a beautiful garden, lake, or forest, make the most of that view by highlighting its best features. Sliding glass or bi-fold doors blur the lines between both spaces and can help frame the scenery, improve airflow, and strengthen the indoor-outdoor connection. If you’re lucky enough to overlook Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish, or a smaller body of water, we recommend staying with white walls so that the eye isn’t distracted. Naturally, white walls will help you keep your focus on the beauty outside, where it should be.

Build in Relaxation
We love it when clients want a small deck or patio outside their primary suite. Not only is it often good for resale, don’t underestimate the enjoyment factor. A quiet cup of coffee to start your day or relaxing beverage at the end, both in the privacy of your personal space are a great way to maximize pleasure from your home.

Functional Layout with a Nod to Entertainment
Design elements like a serving window with outdoor counter is a great option if you don’t anticipate using a full bi-fold door. This will allow you to easily move food between your indoor and outdoor eating spaces without a completely open wall. Similarly, an outdoor covered patio will offer an extension of your living room without the limitations of being open to the elements. Add comfortable furniture, a TV, heaters, sound system, built-in kitchen, and you’ve added a year-round entertainment space outside your traditional footprint. Magic!

Bottom line, we think you’ll find a blend of your indoor and outdoor living spaces will only add to the enjoyment of your home, and likely, its resale value. With the right materials, colors, and design features, what is a good home today can be a great home after a custom home remodel.