Oh, Those Summer Nights! Enchanting Outdoor Living

Written by Julie Hying

As the flash of fireworks fades into the July night sky, there are countless ways to relax in outdoor spaces. Whether enjoying cocktails and conversation, a meal prepared on the grill or just the gentle night breezes as you recline in a swing, glider or patio seating, evening ambiance and relaxation are abundant in the summer months.

Outdoor seating is a primary priority. Design options are endless and range from simple to elaborate. Local businesses can help provide ideas, and countless online options help create the perfect pool, patio, deck or porch. Adirondack chairs, couches, swings, gliders, patio tables and seating all provide a gathering space to enjoy alone or with company. Weather resistant pillows also provide comfort and relaxation, as well as personality and a pop of color.

If your backyard or entertainment space is west facing, shade trees are ideal. But other interesting options create shade and a sleek look. Various materials can be used to add visual interest while shading an outdoor area. Large umbrellas and canopies are utilitarian as well as an amazing design element. Sail canopies are one of the newest design choices. In brilliant as well as subtle colors like cream, white or gray, these billowing rectangular and triangular shapes shade areas for us to enjoy and provide relief from the setting sun. Additionally, consider fans for function and enhancement of an outdoor space. Whether striving for the modern look of plane blades, low profile nickel fans, or the tropical feel of leaf or palm blades, these can all effectively circulate and cool the night air.

Lighting plays a key role in creating a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere. Begin with candlelight. Glass jars filled with fragrant candles flicker in the evening light, creating calm vibes. Deterring unwelcome mosquitoes is an added bonus to the glow that dances in the night. Ceiling and perimeter lighting creates yet another layer to the inviting look. Tiny twinkle lights subtly draw the eye, while Edison bulbs provide a canopy of soft light and an interesting, vintage appearance.

Fire pits also warm up an outdoor space. Embedded in tables of every size and shape, a bed of rocks in an array of hues comes to life with color and flame. These are not only aesthetically pleasing, but can easily be controlled to keep a low heat flame while providing an artistic element to an outdoor space.

Relaxing in the perfect outdoor space is only complete with a lovely glass of lemon water or tea, lemonade, or perhaps one of these simple signature cocktails.

TitoRita

1½ oz. Titos

½ oz. Cointreau

1½ oz. fresh lime juice

Juice of one clementine or cutie

1½ oz. simple syrup (or Fresca if you’d like to eliminate the sugar)

Stir and serve on the rocks

Woodford Spire

1½ oz. Woodford Reserve Bourbon

2 oz. lemonade

1 oz. cranberry juice

Serve on the rocks

Lalo Paloma

2 oz. Lalo Tequila

2 oz. sparkling water

2 oz. grapefruit juice

Pinch of salt

Garnish with lime wedge

Serve on the rocks