Summer Oasis: My Summer Palette Inspiration

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We just wrapped up the interior photoshoot of our home, which we've named #cottagedownthehill. Now, we're shifting our focus to the exterior of our home and enjoying the summer with our new neighbors and friends.

A well-designed outdoor space is the key to making the most of every gathering in any season, so we are really thinking about how to enhance our backyard and exterior spaces to host gatherings year round. Inspired by the timeless charm of Cape Cod and the romantic elegance of English gardens, here is the mood board that is driving the design of our backyard. Capture a similar aesthetic by incorporating these five essential elements:

Image 1: Mcgee & Co

Image 2: Anthropologie

Image 3: Chique Home Living

Image 4: Pottery Barn

Image 5: Mcgee & Co

Image 6:

FIVE ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS

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• NO 1: Create the canvas

  Enhance your outdoor space by starting with a foundation of neutral, earthy tones, and textures, making it versatile for any gathering or season. Incorporate natural materials like wood, linen, rattan, and stone in your furniture, cushions, and accessories to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. These elements blend seamlessly with the environment, offering a timeless and elegant look that remains adaptable to different themes and occasions.

• NO 2: Bloom Outside

  Incorporating lush greenery, a vertical herb garden, and a variety of perennials in a curated collection of planters contributes to a layered look in your backyard. The native flowers and shrubs add vibrant colors and textures, creating a dynamic and visually appealing garden. A trellis supporting climbing plants adds height and dimension, while also providing privacy where needed. Together, these elements create a rich, textured landscape that feels both lush and thoughtfully designed.

• NO 3: Mix in Ambience

  Utilize different types of lighting to enhance your outdoor gatherings. The soft glow of string lights draped across trees or along fences creates a magical atmosphere, while the warm flicker of a fire pit invites guests to gather, relax, and enjoy the evening. These elements not only provide functional lighting and warmth but also transform your backyard into a cozy, inviting retreat perfect for entertaining.

• NO 4: Set the Table

  Elevate any gathering with thoughtful details like melamine plates that offer durability and style, complemented by a tablecloth that sets a welcoming tone. A breadboard adds rustic charm while serving practicality for sharing appetizers or snacks. Candles provide soft, ambient lighting that enhances the atmosphere, creating a cozy and inviting space perfect for enjoying memorable moments with friends and family.

• NO 5: STAY and Play

  Keep everyone entertained and comfortable with a variety of elements designed for fun and relaxation. Outdoor games and pool floats ensure there's always something to do, encouraging guests to stay active and engaged. A movie projector offers the perfect evening entertainment, while towels and shade provide essential comfort and protection from the sun. Together, these elements create an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to linger, play, and enjoy every moment outdoors.

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All these elements will create a canvas that transitions easily with the seasons and ensures your backyard remains an inviting haven all year round, perfect for relaxation, beauty, and making endless seasonal memories.