August’s Modern Brit palette plays host to traditional, British style with a twist. Deep, anchoring earth tones blend with muted, mid-tone neutrals to bring a fun and fresh feel to classic elegance. Our Color of the Month, Smoky Azurite, lifts this collection of subtle but stunning tones to an elevated version of an age-old aesthetic. Why I love it: Welcoming. Relaxed. Fresh.

Smokey Azurite Adds Kitchen Comfort

Craft an inviting atmosphere of laid-back sophistication in the heart of the home with a buttoned-up blue that knows how to unwind. Smoky Azurite’s captivating shade stands out against Black Fox’s rich, grounded hue to make a refined statement. Arrowroote provides the perfect neutral backdrop, creating a bright, clean canvas for the bolder shades to shine.

Get the look: Walnut Tones, Antique Brass Finishes, Earth Tones

Poised Elegance

Brimming with thoughtful details, this look seamlessly blends easy comfort with a sophisticated flair to create a cozy countryside atmosphere. A backdrop of Smoky Azurite’s relaxed vibrance infuses the room with freshness, lending a subtle contemporary vibe to the otherwise quiet and simple space. Adding rich contrast and a rustic note, dark brown wood tones make a beautiful pairing with the natural shades of this palette.

Get the look: Framed Artwork, Patterned Rugs, Ceramics

Smokey Azurite Welcomes You with Cordial Greetings

The humble hues of the Modern Brit palette instantly impart the warm and familiar charm of home to any space. Smoky Azurite’s welcoming shade casts its soft, soothing energy even in a supporting role, as Earthy Ochre balances the carefree, airiness of the space with its down to earth, rooted hue. A collection of shades as uncomplicated and approachable as these brings timeless, comfortable style easily within reach.

Get the look: Natural Wood Tones, Stone Flooring, Mixed Textures

The Modern Brit Palette

Do You Like the Relaxed Freshness of Smokey Azurite?

I can help you explore how to bring the comfortably refined tone of Smokey Azurite into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this welcoming hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Modern Brit palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your ideas take you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this relaxed, cozy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Create Your Perfect Outdoor Space

No matter the size of your outdoor space, you can turn it into an inviting area that you’ll enjoy year-round. You’ll find that it doesn’t take much to declutter your patio and maximize your outdoor space.

Pick a Theme

Your outdoor space should be a reflection of your taste. Picking a theme helps streamline your design options. Whether you're inspired by a Japanese garden with bamboo fences and evergreens or a cottage garden with wildflowers and cobblestone fire pits, it's all about making your outdoor space feel like a personal escape. Even a tiny balcony can embrace these themes by adjusting the greenery and furniture to fit the scale.

Divide Your Outdoor Space into Sections

Think of your outdoor space as multiple sections rather than a single unit. Dividing the area into sections makes it more functional. Carving out separate seating and dining areas can enhance usability. Benches are versatile for seating, accent tables, or even ottomans and are great for displaying planters and candles.

Incorporate Greenery into Your Outdoor Space

Using weather-friendly materials, fabrics, and furnishings designed to last is important, but a touch of greenery can instantly transform your outdoor space—no matter its size. Banana leaf trees and orchids can add a touch of nature, and high-design planters are a creative way to showcase your style.

Invite More Colors with Accessories

You can introduce color through accessories, even if you don’t have many walls for colorful elements. Patterned throw pillows that match your indoor color scheme can make your outdoor areas appear larger and more cohesive. Adding a water feature like a koi pond or waterfall can create a serene atmosphere with calming sounds.

Use the Seasons as Inspiration

Add pops of color in outdoor chairs, floral arrangements, and decor. For spring, bright colors inspired by nature can add interest to both small and spacious outdoor spaces.

Connect Your Outdoors with Your Indoors

Let your outdoor space be an extension of your indoor space. Pulling colors and textures from your interior into your outdoor furnishings and keeping the view between spaces open helps make both areas feel larger. This connection is especially beneficial for smaller spaces, keeping indoor conveniences close at hand while bringing natural light and views of nature indoors.

Take the Same Care with Your Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting is just as crucial as indoor lighting if you want to enjoy your outdoor space after the sun goes down. Aim for a cozy, warm glow with pretty pendants, hanging lanterns, or string globe lights. Additionally, consider laying your outdoor flooring in an interesting pattern, whether it’s cement tile, concrete paver, or decking.

Plan the Outdoors as You Would the Indoors

Plan your outdoor space with the same care as your indoor space. Consider how you want to use the space, the size of the area, and the style you want to achieve. Draw a scaled plan and divide it into practical areas. For small patios or balconies, use plants and furniture to create separate areas for relaxing, dining, or cooking. For larger yards, create different zones for activities like relaxing, playing, or entertaining.

Activate Unused Spaces in Your Outdoor Area

Unused side yards, patios, or backyards can be transformed into functional outdoor spaces with a little creativity. Turn neglected or catchall spaces into useful outdoor living areas.

Remove All Clutter

Start by removing unnecessary items from your outdoor space to create the largest possible area. For example, if you have a large shed used for storage, consider removing it to open up the space for more functional uses.

Consider Your Interior Views

Design your outdoor spaces to support their use while also enhancing your interior views. Staggered plants in various textures can add visual interest and privacy while creating a calming view from indoors. Seasonal plantings and pollinator-friendly plants can offer dynamic, ever-changing views ideal for bird watching from inside.

Incorporate Different Seating Areas in Your Outdoor Space

Always include some variation of a seating area in your outdoor space. Even a small bistro table with two chairs can provide a comfortable outdoor space for entertaining or relaxing. Incorporating lighting and greenery, such as low-maintenance succulents, can further enhance the ambiance.

Add a Rug Area to Your Outdoor Space

Adding a rug can help define and cozy up your outdoor areas. It distinguishes different zones and provides a soft surface underfoot, contributing to the cozy atmosphere you expect inside the home.

Decorate the Walls

Just as you hang wall art indoors, you can decorate the walls of your outdoor space. A fresh coat of paint or stain on a fence and modern wall hangings can add dimension and interest to your patio.

Bring Different Elements Together in Your Outdoor Space

Take advantage of various elements to add interest to your outdoor space. A fire pit, for example, is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Outdoor fountains come in a wide range of sizes and can enhance any outdoor setting, regardless of its size.

By incorporating these tips, you can make the most of your outdoor space, no matter its size. Ready to transform your outdoor area? Let’s get started!

Ready to Enhance Your Outdoor Spaces?

If your outdoor areas could use a makeover – or if you want to create a backyard oasis from scratch, please let me know and I can consult with you on how to create the outdoor space perfect for your vision and needs. The ideas shown here are a good start, but still just the beginning. Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com You can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Create Joyful Spaces with the Dopamine Decorating Style

Move over, Barbiecore: Dopamine decorating is the latest colorful, playful antidote to boring interiors. This trend is all about brilliantly bold colors and patterns, eclectic prints, inviting textures, and a nostalgia-infused vibe that can't be missed. Named after the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine decor is like bringing back the carefree joy of childhood into your home.

What is Dopamine Decor?

Dopamine decor is inspired by the concept of dopamine dressing in fashion, where the focus is on wearing clothes that make you feel good. Similarly, dopamine decor aims to create spaces that evoke happiness and warmth. This style encourages going all out with vibrant colors and playful designs while ensuring everything ties together aesthetically.

Personalized Happiness in Your Home

Dopamine decor is deeply personal and individualistic. Each home can reflect the homeowner’s personality through thoughtful choices in color, texture, and composition. Whether it’s a bespoke piece as your living room focal point or handmade decorations for a cozy nook, the key is to make the space uniquely yours.

Pair Vintage with Bold Patterns

One effective approach to dopamine decor is pairing vintage pieces with bold patterns and bright colors. Think oranges, pinks, yellows, lime greens, and cobalt blues to brighten the space and keep the joyful vibes alive. In the living room, pops of color in furniture like console tables or end tables, and bright upholstery or quirky cushions, can add contrast to a neutral sofa. Pastel walls can balance the look while colorful elements on your coffee table or media console can enhance the vibrancy.

Colorful Fixtures and Accessories

Don’t overlook fixtures and accessories as opportunities to add color. In bedrooms or studies, bold geometric designs, floral prints, and abstract patterns can create a sense of movement and whimsy through wallpapers, floor cushions, rugs, and throw pillows. In the kitchen, vintage appliance collections and colorful backsplashes can add cheerful touches.

Eco-Friendly Decorating

Consider the environmental impact of your decor choices. Revitalize old pieces by purchasing vintage, recycled, or upcycled designs. This not only reduces your carbon footprint but also adds a personal touch with items that carry historical or emotional significance.

Starting with a Joyful Color Scheme

Begin your dopamine decor journey with a color scheme that sparks joy. Consistency is key—use diverse shades of the same hue or stick to a couple of harmonious color schemes. Bright colors on smaller walls and well-considered lighting can create a harmonious ambiance that enhances the overall feel-good vibe of your home.

Fill Your Space with Priceless Memories

A fundamental element of dopamine decor is making room for familiar faces—in frames, that is. Instead of impersonal art, opt for framed snapshots of friends and family. These personal touches can instantly fill your space with priceless memories and joy.

By incorporating these principles, your home can become a sanctuary of happiness, reflecting your unique style and personality. Ready to bring some dopamine into your decor? Let’s get started!

Has this feel-good happy mix of colors, patterns, nostalgia and style inspired you? If you’d like me to help you figure out how to incorporate some of this dopamine decor styling into your home or business, let me know. It takes a good eye to pull things together so they're not cluttered or overwhelming, and I'm here to help!

You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some exciting living room decor ideas together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Capture the pure joy of carefree summer days as a child with June’s Summer Camp palette. A bright, effervescent collection where color comes to play, these fun-loving hues spark nostalgic wonder and inspire a unique and playful style. With a shade as cheery as Honeydew holding it all together, it’s easy to embrace the creative possibilities. Why I love it: Joyful. Cheery. Soft.

Honeydew is a Fun and Fresh Color

Soft yet energizing, Honeydew’s citrus hue easily fills any space with a fresh and frothy feel. With Fresh Zest as an accent color, you get the perfect combination for infusing a burst of vibrant liveliness without the boldness of more saturated shades. Bring them into a room with lots of natural light to meet the zestier, more expressive side of these hues.

Get the look: Graphic Rug, Eclectic Lighting, Light Wood Tones, Colorful Accents

Perfectly Eclectic

Summer Camp’s lighthearted optimism makes it easy to stray from the familiar in favor of something more fun. From mid-century modern to free-spirited, maximalist-inspired looks, these hues infuse a buoyant energy that can carry any design. The soft denim blue of an Aleutian backdrop keeps it light while bolder punches of saturated color excite the eye. Honeydew’s sweet, happy vibe permeates the room and balances everything out from above.

Get the look: Retro Furniture, Gallery Prints, Brass Fixtures, Large Floor Plants

Room to Be Unique

Whimsical color shines brightest in a unique design style that feels like an endless summer. A room saturated with Honeydew’s citrus hue becomes a blank canvas for personal style to come to life. Infuse a dose of Breathtaking’s breezy, calming influence while Jovial’s happy coral shade, hinted at only through accents, lifts the mood in a perpetual upward motion.

Get the look: Gallery Prints, Graphic Rug, Pastel Palette, Layered Elements

THE SUMMER CAMP PALETTE

Do You Like the Zesty Optimism of Honeydew?

I can help you explore how to bring the fresh, vibrant citrus pastel of Honeydew into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this lovely retro hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Summer Camp palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your ideas take you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this friendly, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Is it true? Could granite’s 30-year reign as the preferred countertop be coming to an end? 

I can’t say for sure. In fact, I think granite remains a solid choice. After all, it’s both durable and attractive — and it’s become increasingly affordable too. 

But there’s just no denying granite’s seeming decline. As homeowners opt for more modern kitchen designs, they’re also opting for more understated countertop alternatives.

Here’s a quick look at some of the countertop’s hottest contenders:

Engineered Quartz:

Perhaps granite’s top competitor, engineered quartz offers the beauty of stone without the maintenance. It’s tougher than granite, and it’s highly resistant to scratching, cracking, staining, and heat.

Unlike granite, which offers the unique qualities of natural stone, engineered quartz is largely uniform; because it’s engineered, there’s no choice of a one-of-a-kind slab.

There are, however, a number of colors and designs available — from stark modern whites to options closely resembling marble.

And, because engineered quartz is non-porous, it never has to be sealed like natural stone.

Wood:

Increasingly, homeowners seek and appreciate natural wood countertops — particularly easy butcher blocks and those custom-created by quality craftsmen.

While wood countertops can add warmth, balance, and beauty to any modern home, they also require a fair amount of maintenance. Because wood is susceptible to damage from heat and moisture, it must be sealed about once a month.

The best part about wood, though, is that it can be refinished in the event that damage does occur.

Soapstone:

Soapstone is an attractive, natural quarried stone that ranges from light gray to green-black in color. While the material is soft and pliable, it’s also nonporous (i.e., it doesn’t require regular sealing like granite). Soapstone is also resistant to stains and acidic materials.

The downside to soapstone is that it is susceptible to scratches and deep indentations. Light gray soapstone will also weather and darken over time, occasionally developing a patina finish.

The material comes in smaller slabs, so seams will be visible in soapstone countertops longer than seven feet.

Concrete:

Concrete countertops came onto the scene in the 1980s — and they’ve evolved a lot since. These days, precast concrete countertops are available in a number of different colors.

Generally, they’re flat and smooth, and they can run from 1.5 inches to 10 feet long.

While concrete countertops have historically cracked and chipped easily, recent innovations have made them less prone to damage.

Concrete is naturally strong and heat-resistant, and slabs can be sealed to prevent staining.

Stainless Steel:

There’s a reason restaurants use stainless steel countertops in their kitchens. It’s heat-, rust- and stain-resistant; it’s easy to clean; and it won’t absorb or harbor even the toughest bacteria.

The downside to stainless steel countertops is that they scratch easily — and they show it too. For this reason, it’s best to use a cutting board any time you’re prepping food on a stainless steel countertop.

Also, it’s a good idea to choose a brushed stainless finish that will help conceal any marks. At first blush, you may think that stainless feels ultramodern or cold, but a balance of stainless steel and wood can create a warm, timeless, and uber-functional kitchen.

Not Sure Which Countertop to Choose?

When you’re remodeling your kitchen, the most important question to ask yourself is this: Are you remodeling for yourself or a potential buyer?

If you’re remodeling for yourself, go with what you like best. (And if you love granite, by all means, go with granite!)

But if you’re remodeling with an eye toward selling, I advise going with a more neutral option. You’ll get the upscale look you’re going for without alienating granite-tired buyers.

If any of these kitchen countertop styles and materials have you looking around at your own kitchen, and you feel that an update might be due, let's talk! I can come by and review your kitchen design and discuss possibilities. Kitchen upgrades always make my clients happy, and countertop upgrades can change the entire feel and look of a kitchen space, so let's talk about it.

Choose a contact method below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com

And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

For quite a while, open-plan concepts have been all the rage, but a certain little feature called "privacy" is making a comeback.

I'm going to share with you why closed-concept layouts are gaining popularity in interior design. There are pros and cons between open- and closed-concept layouts, but the current trend does seem to be moving in favor of spaces with more walls, more privacy.

All interior design trends swing on a pendulum. For a long time, open-concept layouts have been viewed as the most desirable and practical for how we've been defining "modern-day living".

In these spaces, the kitchen, dining room, and living room blend seamlessly into one, creating a sociable, light-filled area. More recently, however, I’ve noticed a gradual shift away from open-plan, with an increasing number of homeowners adding in walls rather than knocking them down, converting open-plan to closed-concept layouts.

Why Are Closed-Concept Layouts Gaining Popularity?

Open-plan living rooms, kitchens, and dining areas remain popular, particularly among parents of young children and those who love to host. There is still a love of kitchens and dining areas that are open and connected, particularly for families who want to engage with their children while preparing meals.

However, the current trend for closed-concept layouts is a legacy of the pandemic, which sparked a newfound appreciation for closed-off spaces for working, studying, or simply enjoying a moment of peace and quiet. While we are no longer spending quite so much time at home, we still value a layout that offers privacy and seclusion.

The Return of the 'Classic Six'

During the pandemic, the practicality and privacy offered by separate spaces became undeniable. The resurgence of the classic "New York Six" layout is a testament to this shift. This layout, also known as the "Classic Six," refers to the apartment floor plans with six rooms – a formal dining room, living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, and a bathroom. These were common before the 1940s. This trend marks a significant shift from the open floor plans that dominated the previous decade, underscoring a renewed appreciation for distinct, separate spaces.

Maximalist, Playful Trends

The trend for closed-concept layouts isn't solely down to the pandemic. It's also influenced by other interior design trends dominating right now. Instead of closed or open concept, we’re seeing fewer one-size-fits-all homes, and more families are choosing the style that specifically caters to what they need.

Maximalism and dopamine design are really trendy right now. Those styles lend themselves best to separated spaces due to the abundance of color, texture, and personality involved. When you indulge in this design style, you’re likely curating smaller, divided spaces so as to not overwhelm one open space with tons of visual stimuli.

As an aside, dopamine design features brilliantly bold colors and patterns, eclectic prints, inviting textures, and a nostalgia-infused, unmissable vibe. Named for the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine decorating—an offshoot of “dopamine dressing” in the fashion world—brings back memories of a carefree childhood when the bedroom walls had your favorite celebrity posters, playful signs, eccentric lights, and objects that elicited a deep sense of joy.

FAQs

How Do I Choose Between an Open and Closed-Concept Layout?

It comes down to what you prefer, but the size of your property is also a key consideration. City apartments often need an open kitchen because, otherwise, they would likely lose any daylight in the kitchen and dramatically reduce the perception of the size of the living area. It also depends on how much storage space you need and your tolerance for mess. Incorporating a kitchen into a communal living area brings its mix of benefits and drawbacks, including the necessity for a perpetually pristine kitchen and the potential sacrifice of valuable wall space that could serve for storage or house a dining area.

What Are the Benefits of Closed-Concept Layouts?

In a closed-concept layout, the kitchen is distinct from other living areas, effectively isolating cooking odors, sound, and visual clutter. This separation keeps the culinary chaos concealed, allowing the rest of the home to retain its aesthetic appeal and functionality without the constant need for cleanliness. The compartmentalization inherent in closed-concept layouts permits more precise control over heating, cooling, and lighting on a per-room basis, avoiding the energy waste associated with conditioning unoccupied areas.

Will Open-Concept Go Out of Style?

I don't think so. The open concept is great for people who like to entertain and for families with small kids. This layout promotes interaction and brings everyone together by allowing everyone to be in the same room.

The Bottom Line is: What's Your Preference?

If you're suddenly looking at your spaces and thinking, 'hmm... I wonder...', I can always come visit and evaluate your current situation and advise you on how to achieve the approach you're envisioning. Just contact me and let me know – I'm here to help. You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some wonderful decor and design approaches together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Wade into an elegance that ebbs and flows between the laid-back atmosphere of a coastal look and a more elevated yet approachable modern style. With Silver Strand anchoring the collection, May’s Seaside Tranquility palette weaves a harmonious backdrop of refreshing and relaxed comfort that ties it all together.Why I love it: Relaxing. Airy. Calming

Radiant Receptions

Greet guests with a stunning shade of warm white that bathes spaces with a welcoming feel. As backdrop, Egret White’s bright shade breathes an airy expansiveness into the sun-drenched foyer and sets a tone of serene sophistication. Subtle pops of Silver Strand’s soft, breezy shade evoke the soothing qualities of lounging by the seaside. Warm wood tones coupled with the texture of accents like a jute rug and wicker baskets underscore the rustic charm. The overall uncomplicated, minimalist approach leaves the space with a clean, fresh feel that’s timeless.

Get the look: Wicker, Weathered Wood, Rustic Wooden Flooring, Lush Greenery

Silver Strand Creates a Mood of Serene Haven

Silver Strand’s calming, green-gray hue looks perfect anywhere, instantly evoking a relaxed effortlessness. It’s perfect as a backdrop in a sunlit sitting room meant for unwinding and connecting. Tricorn Black’s striking hue on the doors offers a touch of modern elegance, elevating the casual ambiance while adding rich contrast and depth.

Get the look: Striped Patterns, Artisanal Items, Soft Palette, Black Framed Window

THE SEASIDE TRANQUILITY PALETTE

Do You Like the Calm, Relaxing Vibe of Silver Strand?

If you'd like me to help you explore how to bring the calm, coastal color of Silver Strand into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this airy hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Seaside Tranquility palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your vision takes you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calming, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Let me share how I transformed some key spaces inside this Lake Mary home, updating for style and functionality.

When it comes to rejuvenating a space, every detail counts, especially in a home renovation in Lake Mary.

This principle guided my recent transformation of a home on Glen Cannon Court, where I gave a series of spaces much-needed updates to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Let’s delve into the specifics of my renovations in the kitchen, guest bathroom, and living room.

Culinary Excellence in the Kitchen Renovation

The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of the home, received a complete overhaul. Previously, it was functional yet dated, lacking the modern touches that streamline cooking and entertaining.

The renovation introduced sleek, new cabinetry that not only provides ample storage but also elevates the room's style. The countertops were replaced with high-quality materials that are both durable and visually appealing, complementing the state-of-the-art appliances that promise efficiency and culinary excellence.

Guest Bathroom: Elegance in Details

The guest bathroom transformation focuses on creating a welcoming and luxurious space for visitors.

I introduced elegant wallpaper to add a layer of sophistication and texture to the room. The new countertop and faucet reflect contemporary trends in design, marrying functionality with chic aesthetics.

A stylish new mirror enhances the sense of space and reflects light beautifully, making the bathroom appear larger and more inviting.

Creating Comfort for the Living Room Renovation

The living room’s makeover was aimed at enhancing comfort while injecting a dose of contemporary charm.

The cabinets were painted in Sherwin Williams Iron Ore, a rich, deep color that adds a dramatic yet refined touch to the room. This choice beautifully complements the resurfaced fireplace, now featuring brushed limestone tile that exudes warmth and elegance.

The home renovation in Lake Mary at Glen Cannon Court is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship.

Each updated room reflects a commitment to creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional, designed to suit the needs of modern living for my clients.

Could You Use a Home Renovation?

If this article has you looking around at various rooms in your home, and feel like it might be time for an update, let me know, and I'll come by and review it with you and we can discuss possibilities. Do let me know if you're interested, whether it's one room or the whole house. No project is too small or too big, for that matter.

Choose a contact method below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com

And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

My Guide to a Perfect Summer Gathering in Your Garden

As an interior designer, I adore the challenge of transforming spaces, not just indoors but outdoors as well. Spring and summer beckon us outdoors, and there's no better way to enjoy it than hosting a backyard BBQ party. In this guide, I’ll share some tips and ideas on how to set up your backyard with both rustic and elegant touches for the perfect BBQ party.

Ensuring Comfortable Seating for Your Backyard BBQ Party

When I design a space for a backyard BBQ, I focus on cozy seating. I love creating smaller, intimate seating areas where guests can relax with a cold drink, away from the grill’s heat and smoke. Adding soft furnishings like cushions and lightweight throws can transform these spots into comfortable retreats.

Crafting a Charming Tablescape

Even casual events like a backyard BBQ party benefit from beautifully decorated tablescapes. I like to draw guests to the table with greenery runners and rustic elements. Seasonal blooms arranged in clear jars or straw baskets make for delightful, eye-catching centerpieces.

Dazzling with a Drinks and Dessert Station

At any backyard BBQ party I host, I ensure the food and beverages are not just tasty but also beautifully presented. For instance, setting up fruit-infused waters or colorful summertime teas in mason jars not only quenches thirst but also enhances the decor. I often use a rustic metal bucket as a beverage cooler to amplify the summery vibe.

Enhancing the Ambience with Lighting

As the evening sets in during a backyard BBQ party, the right lighting is crucial. I incorporate fire pits for a warm glow and string lights on trees for a magical feel. Large lanterns filled with string lights or flameless candles also help illuminate the gathering beautifully.

Elevating the Atmosphere with Greenery

Utilizing nature as decoration is my favorite tip for summer. I accentuate existing natural foliage with lifelike greenery and vibrant artificial flowers. Adding hanging baskets or potted arrangements introduces cheerful colors, while topiaries along pathways give a well-manicured look.

Backyard BBQ Party FAQs: Ensuring Your Gathering Is a Hit

Whenever I plan a backyard BBQ party, I aim for a seamless and enjoyable experience. Below are some practical tips to ensure your barbecue is perfectly prepared and stress-free.

Preparing Your Space for a Backyard BBQ Party

Start by evaluating the space designated for the event. Ensure there's enough room for the grill, dining areas, and guest mingling. Clean all patio furniture, accessories, and décor, especially if they've been stored away. Adding fresh greenery and sprucing up the garden can significantly enhance the festive vibe.

Organizing Your BBQ Party

For a successful backyard BBQ party, send out invitations about 4-6 weeks in advance. Once your guest list is set, calculate the amount of food, sides, and drinks you'll need. It's crucial to prepare your backyard in advance to comfortably accommodate everyone.

Making Your BBQ Party Fun

To keep the entertainment lively, I recommend incorporating games that cater to all ages. Giant Jenga, lawn games, or even a small inflatable pool for the little ones can add a fun element. For adults, setting up an informal poker table or leaving out board games can engage them throughout the event. If you want something unique, projecting a movie outdoors as the evening winds down is always a hit.

Now it's Time to Create a Memorable Backyard BBQ Party

By following these tips, you can host a backyard BBQ party that’s both fun and fuss-free. Remember, the key to a great gathering is not just the good food and decor, but also creating a warm, inviting space where everyone feels comfortable and entertained. I hope these ideas inspire you to throw a BBQ party that your guests will rave about long after BBQ season fades.

Is Your Backyard BBQ-Ready?

If your backyard could use a makeover – especially for throwing outdoor parties like a good BBQ, please let me know and I can consult with you on how to make it into an outdoor space perfect for your needs. Message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Nostalgia meets modern in Sashay Sand’s blushing beige-pink hue. This playful shade brings a lighthearted whimsy to April’s candy-coated color palette that’s made to charm. Why I love it: Sashay Sand is graceful, delicate, and warm.

Dial Up the Sweet Life with Sherwin-Williams' Sashay Sand

April’s Candy Filter palette adds a sweet sophistication to a design style that blends the best of past and present. Sashay Sand’s mood-boosting nature infuses spaces with a calming atmosphere of dreamy nostalgia.

As a backdrop, this subtle shade creates the perfect canvas for blending the simple minimalism of Scandinavian style with mid-century, vintage vibes. Decorative accents and furniture that evoke a bygone era but also feel at home in a modern design pull these looks together.

Get the look: Vintage Items, Mid-century Furniture, Light Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Pastel Heaven

A bright, pastel palette of pinks, greens, and beiges is welcome anywhere, but it makes a standout statement in the kitchen.

Coupled with abundant natural light, White Snow walls and a Pearl Gray backsplash maintain an open, airy feel in the space that enhances the other shades.

Cascade Green’s dusty mint hue adds a surprise of charismatic color and balances the overall delicate lightness.

Get the look: Vintage Items, Mid-century Furniture, Light Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Sashay Sand is Subdued and Simple

A subdued and simple approach sometimes works best for a kid's bedroom. Porcelain’s warm undertones hug the space with a comforting sense of security and coziness.

Aside from its timeless appeal that won’t go out of style, this neutral shade’s versatility allows subtle pops of Sashay Sand and supporting colors from the palette to add character and interest.

Get the look: Simplified Palette, Layered Fabrics, Natural Wood, Mixed Textures

Talk to me if you'd like me to show you how to bring these shades to life in your home.

THE CANDY FILTER PALETTE

Do You Like the Nostalgic Playfulness of Sashay Sand?

Ready to see if this delicate, warm blush neutral works in your space? If you think the Candy Filter palette speaks to you and would like some help figuring out how to best use some of these fun neutrals in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calming, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.