Now that we're spending more time inside to comply with stay-at-home orders and even lockdowns in some areas, here are some ideas for you to improve your outdoor space so you can soak up a lil’ bit more sunshine or simply enjoy the nightlife just outside your front door.

A hammock or any swinging chair is a simple way to update your backyard. They take up less space, and there are plenty of designs and styles to choose from that will work in almost any setting. It's also a great choice if you want to achieve that beachy vibe using a decorative accessory. Whether you put it on your porch, terrace, or patio, a hammock’s easy swinging motion is calming and it can be a relaxing way to end your day.

One way to embrace outdoor living and make your space an extension of your living room is to invest in additional lighting. Luminous decorations, such as floor or table lamps and lanterns, will not only brighten up your backyard but will also add interest to it. Just make sure to choose lamps that are designed for the outdoors and are weatherproof. Another brilliant idea is hanging pretty string lights across an entire space or along a fence to give your yard a rustic vibe.

According to Zillow's 2019 Outdoor Living Trends, there's no need to rely on matching patio sets to upgrade your space. Instead, you can mix and match your seating options to achieve that curated, eclectic look that continues to gain popularity. Pull together benches, chairs, pint-sized stools, and ottoman for a unique look. You can even add floor pillows and poufs to create extra seating in your lounge area because, who doesn’t love that lovely Bohemian feel? 

You’ve got more choices than ever, and everything could potentially add some style to your patio. It’s also great if you love collecting individual pieces of furniture or if you just want a homey, vintage look. Just make sure to arrange the pieces and patterns in a way that they won’t look cluttered.

Adding textiles, such as rugs and fabrics, is an affordable update you can make to enhance texture and complement the color scheme of your outdoor space. You can also add new accent pillows, cozy floor cushions, and slipcovers to reinvigorate the area. When designing exposed spaces, remember to always check for inclement weather to make sure that any items that could get damaged make their way into storage. When possible, choose outdoor fabrics that can withstand the sun's rays and also dry quickly once weathered.

In creating your perfect outdoor oasis, it should not only be stylish, cozy, and comfortable, but also functional. It's where you would love to curl up at night with a good book and a glass of wine, or where your family will have dining al fresco on the summer days, so why not equip it with amenities that will encourage activity. In the Zillow research, fire features and outdoor kitchens are particularly popular options. 

Elevate your outdoor space by installing a fireplace or fire pits, depending on your space and budget. Aside from the unlimited s’mores, a fireplace will also make your patio usable even on colder months. An outdoor kitchen is also amazing for all the summer barbeques you want to have with your family.