What does the term bohemian mean to you? Your answer is perfect for you, and that’s the essence of what your outdoor living space could reflect.
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Activity Zones
One of the most rewarding changes you can make to your outdoor living space is to create activity zones. That way, people who are trying to read or relax won’t be in the thick of the action. Zones allow for separate activities but still provide a sense of togetherness.
A bohemian backyard isn’t formal. It doesn’t even have to look structured (although it can be well organized). As long as the spaces make sense for the activities, you can separate zones using seat walls, potted plants, or a series of interconnected small patios (rather than one large patio). These methods are relaxed yet offer a way to segregate activities, guide traffic flow, and create an interesting space you’ll truly enjoy using.
A Multi-Level Living Space
Whether your backyard is sloped and you use terraces to create multi-level outdoor living; or whether it’s a flat backyard with small elevation changes of just one or two steps - especially when each level is a different material - multi-level spaces are interesting and surprisingly practical.
It’s the perfect opportunity to give each space its own mix-and-match flair using a variety of materials and decorating styles - a classic bohemian approach. And, you’ll find it natural to define activity areas using this method!
Outdoor Cooking and Dining
Outdoor cooking and dining spaces are where everyone gathers. Once again, mixed materials and an easygoing style will deliver the bohemian style you want. Customize your outdoor kitchen and dining area with decorative lighting, a vine-covered pergola, and even colorful outdoor curtains that will add privacy and block the sun.
Concrete wall units are great materials to consider for the walls of your outdoor kitchen. You’ll find dozens of relaxed and rustic styles to match your patio pavers while still giving your kitchen its own unique flair. Consider countertop materials such as stained poured concrete rather than sleek granite. Not only can you achieve a completely unique look, but the imperfections in concrete add to the charm. Another great countertop material is copper, which, if left unsealed, will oxidize over time (especially outdoors), giving it a unique patina with gorgeous colors including red and green. Don’t worry about those kitchen spills - they add to the character! steel.
Shelter
A pergola is a wonderfully bohemian way to shelter your cooking, dining, and seating areas from the blazing hot sun. Personalize it with a fan to keep the space even cooler on the hottest days; and finish the look with gauzy outdoor curtains, flowering vines, and colorful cushions and outdoor rugs.
Underfoot
When choosing patio materials for a bohemian vibe, use rustic, textured materials that give you the sense of having been there forever. Painted/glazed tiles are beautiful ways to personalize your masonry, but should be reserved for vertical elements such as walls (they are generally not durable enough to withstand constant foot traffic and weather).
Decor
Add masonry planters filled with colorful annuals, or a series of edible gardens. Beautiful lanterns (either electric or candle-lit) provide after-dark ambience but they are designed to be beautiful to look at in daylight hours as well. A rustic water feature adds the sweet sound of moving water, and a collection of colorful ceramic pots will add interest. And, you can use found objects such as old tools or tractor seats to give your space a fun atmosphere.
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