When designing an outdoor living space for a St. Croix home, what should I consider?

Question: “What are some tips for designing an outdoor space in a home on St. Croix?”

Our Answer:

When planning a comfortable and useful outdoor living space, here are some considerations:

Comfortable seating – One of the first things you should invest in is comfortable seating. This may mean some combination of tables, chairs, couches, lounge chairs, benches or hammocks, depending on the space and your preferences.
Lighting – An attractive set of solar garden lights along your walkways will illuminate the paths between your plants. This is as much to create a mood as for safety. You might also want to think about hanging some string lights, perhaps with a fanciful and distinct design. This offers soft lighting for evening entertaining.
Outdoor storage – You will have outdoor supplies which you will want to keep conveniently available. Cabinets and storage benches will keep things tidy and uncluttered.
Awnings or umbrellas – Yes, the sun is great, but shade is also very important! If you don’t have a covered space, you will need some shade. This can be from large trees, umbrellas, or a retractable patio awning.
Outdoor cooking – One of the most popular items people purchase is a portable lightweight stove or grill. Some people who enjoy cooking outdoors create an outdoor kitchen with a sink, prepping counter and a small refrigerator.
Cushions and pillows – One way to make your patio look and feel cozy and inviting is with cushions and pillows. These should be comfortable and attractive. Some people choose colors similar to the indoor colors to give a smooth transition to their outdoor space.
Decor – There is an endless selection of decorative items you can find. There are lights, sculptures, fountains, birdbaths and beautiful pots for your plants. Some friends of ours sunk a bathtub into their garden to create a small pond. They also found the inside of a baby grand piano and hung it on the fence. Outdoor decor can beautify your space and express your personality!