Inspiration For Designing The Perfect Outdoor Space
Outdoor living spaces are more popular than ever — and for good reason. Today’s homeowners want private, comfortable, and beautifully designed outdoor areas that feel like an extension of their interior living space. At Ernest Homes, we build homes with thoughtful indoor–outdoor flow so you can enjoy the sunshine, entertain guests, or simply unwind in your own personal retreat.
Whether you dream of cozy candlelit dinners, weekend brunches on the patio, or kid-friendly cookouts, the right outdoor design can transform everyday living. Below are fresh ideas to help you create the perfect outdoor space at your new Ernest home.
Blending the Indoors and Outdoors
The best outdoor areas offer a seamless transition between your home’s interior and exterior. Ernest homes feature expansive windows and large French or sliding glass doors that connect your living room, kitchen, or dining area directly to your porch or patio.
Create a Cohesive Look
As you design your outdoor space, consider how it visually connects to the room inside. A cohesive look can be achieved through complementary colors, coordinated textiles, and similar materials. Outdoor-friendly fabrics now come in stunning patterns and textures, making it easy to match the interior style of your home.
Think about the atmosphere you want to create. For a relaxed, natural look, incorporate elements like:
- Terracotta planters
- Kilim or earth-toned pillows
- Raffia or weather-resistant wicker furniture
- Warm wood accents and outdoor rugs
Protection from the Elements
A well-designed outdoor space should be comfortable year-round. Covered porches and patios extend your usable living space and offer essential protection from rain, sun, and wind. Consider adding:
- Ceiling fans for airflow
- Retractable screens
- Sun shades or curtains
- All-weather lighting
With the right features, you won’t have to choose between enjoying the outdoors and staying comfortable.
Provide Ample Seating
Your outdoor area should accommodate both relaxation and conversation. Depending on the size of your patio or porch, incorporate seating arrangements such as:
- A large dining table with chairs or benches
- A cushioned outdoor sofa or sectional
- A porch swing or glider
- Accent chairs arranged around a coffee table or firepit
Comfort is key — choose weather-resistant cushions and durable frames so your space stays inviting through every season.
Try Porch Gardening
Bring life and color to your outdoor space with container gardens, vertical planters, or a small herb garden. Porch gardening works beautifully even in compact spaces and allows you to enjoy seasonal blooms, fragrant herbs, or decorative shrubs without the need for a full garden bed.
Great porch-friendly options include:
- Mint, basil, rosemary, and thyme
- Colorful annuals and perennials
- Potted citrus or fig trees
- Trailing vines and ferns
Add an Outdoor Kitchen
If you love entertaining, an outdoor kitchen can make gatherings effortless. Depending on your space and budget, consider adding features such as:
- A built-in or freestanding grill
- Countertops for food prep
- Durable storage cabinetry
- A mini fridge or beverage cooler
- Outdoor-rated lighting and electrical outlets
Choose materials like stone, stainless steel, teak, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to ensure longevity against the elements.
Go Bold with Lighting
Lighting transforms your outdoor environment — especially after sunset. Use a combination of functional and decorative lighting, such as:
- Outdoor chandeliers or pendants
- String lights or café lights
- Lanterns and sconces
- Pathway or step lighting for safety
If your porch requires a ceiling fan, consider adding ambient lighting along railings, posts, or planters to maintain a warm, inviting glow.
Incorporate Built-In Entertainment
Whether it’s game day or a movie night under the stars, built-in outdoor entertainment can elevate your patio. Weather-protected TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and discreet wiring solutions allow you to enjoy your favorite shows, music, and sporting events without sacrificing style.
Create Your Outdoor Retreat with Ernest Homes
When you choose a new Ernest home in Savannah, you have the freedom to design indoor and outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle. From charming porches to spacious patios, our floor plans offer flexibility to create the perfect environment for relaxation, entertainment, and time with family.
Explore our home plans and contact our team when you're ready to begin designing the outdoor space of your dreams.
