Recently, I received a call from a young lady named Rafie, who was seeking some design help with her veranda. She envisioned transforming her outdoor space into a tropical oasis that seamlessly extends her living area. Here's how we embarked on this exciting project to turn her cluttered patio into a serene and beautiful outdoor retreat.
First Impressions and Ideas
Upon arrival, I found Rafie's veranda being used as a storage space, which was in stark contrast to the rest of her beautifully decorated apartment. She expressed a desire for her patio to reflect the same worldly feel as her interior spaces. We agreed that the first step was to clear out the clutter and start with a clean slate.
Creating a Vision
We discussed several design ideas, focusing on bringing color, light, and a cohesive indoor-outdoor vibe to the space. Rafie was enthusiastic about incorporating some vibrant hues on the walls, adding lighting, and perhaps hanging some curtains to soften the space and add a touch of privacy.
We also explored the idea of keeping a piece of furniture she liked and making it a focal point on the far wall. Additionally, we decided to remove the existing louvers to bring more natural light and a sense of openness into the area. Rafie loved the idea of integrating nature into her space, making the veranda feel like a natural extension of her living room.'
The Transformation Begins
With the space cleared, we began painting the walls a neutral beige, which would serve as a perfect backdrop for colorful accents. We chose Sherwin-Williams' Emerald paint, which is notable for being the only zero VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) exterior paint on the market, ensuring a safe and odor-free environment.
To add warmth and texture without the cost of a new rug, we opted for a thick, durable burlap fabric from Fabric Planet, a local distributor. This choice not only saved money but also added a unique, earthy feel to the space.
Adding the Final Touches
Rafie and I worked together on a simple DIY project, hanging air plants in glass ornaments between the new curtains. This added a fresh, tropical touch to the space, enhancing the outdoor aesthetic. The use of mirrors was another strategic choice to open up the area and reflect the natural light, further connecting the indoor and outdoor spaces.
The Big Reveal
The transformation was stunning. The once cluttered and underutilized veranda became a beautiful, functional outdoor extension of Rafie's living room. The space now features a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and natural elements, perfectly reflecting Rafie's vision and style.
Rafie was thrilled with the final result, expressing her happiness with how the space had evolved from an eyesore to a welcoming oasis. Working with her and bringing her vision to life was a pleasure. This project is a great reminder that even small spaces like verandas can be transformed into valuable and enjoyable living areas with a little creativity and effort.
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