From barbecues and games of bocce to parties and candlelit dinners, an outdoor space can be a hub for entertaining.
"Try to create a living room for your outdoor space," said Kate Anthony, owner of Kate & Company Design Studio and Interior Design instructor at the Art Institute of California - San Diego, a campus of Argosy University.
Whether it's a small patio or sprawling backyard, design experts from the Art Institutes system of schools have tips for making the great outdoors a great place to eat and play.
• Focal points. Edward Varias, owner of E.V. Design and interior design instructor at the Art Institute of California - Hollywood, said a focal point brings everyone together, and can include furniture, a fountain or a fireplace. An outdoor rug can serve as a focal point and help define an area, and a fire pit makes a great place for guests to gather.
"Try to create a living room for your outdoor space," said Kate Anthony, owner of Kate & Company Design Studio and Interior Design instructor at the Art Institute of California - San Diego, a campus of Argosy University.
Whether it's a small patio or sprawling backyard, design experts from the Art Institutes system of schools have tips for making the great outdoors a great place to eat and play.
• Focal points. Edward Varias, owner of E.V. Design and interior design instructor at the Art Institute of California - Hollywood, said a focal point brings everyone together, and can include furniture, a fountain or a fireplace. An outdoor rug can serve as a focal point and help define an area, and a fire pit makes a great place for guests to gather.