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Amy Pottenger!
I know first hand what it’s like to be running a business while raising kids and cultivating a thriving marriage. It’s a lot.
It’s my mission to use my 15+ years of experience to create a lifeline for entrepreneurial mamas, helping them realize the homes of their dreams.
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Outdoor Living space as a Family Connection Zone
With summer around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about how using your outdoor space can bring your family together! Outdoor spaces provide a great place where everyone can detox from screens for a bit and actually connect with each other. Indoor-outdoor rooms, or outdoor living spaces can also give your home the feel of a resort without ever booking a trip. Are you craving an easy way to relax during the weekend or end of the day that you don’t actually have to travel to? Why not create that zen space in your own backyard (literally). I’m sharing today some ways to incorporate your outdoor spaces into your overall living plan!
When we were at home all the time in 2020, our screened in porch was such a refuge for me and for my family. It was the spot where the kids gravitated toward to do homework for a change of scenery, it’s where my husband and I would relax at the end of the workday, and it’s often where friends would hang out when they came over to visit. The things that made the space the most inviting were adding an outdoor-proof sectional sofa and chairs so we had room for everyone, and we made it modular so we could adapt to whatever activity was happening in the space. On hot days the ceiling fan cooled us off and we loved the fun addition of the white string lights to provide a soft glow.
If you don’t have a three season or screened in porch, consider adding an outdoor living room! All you need is to pick a spot in your back yard or use a porch space, and add some comfy seating and a couple tables.
Outdoor kitchens or grill spaces are another area you might consider adding to your backyard plan. These are great for entertaining and providing a way to get out of a hot kitchen when cooking in the summertime.
Image by Ashley Avila Photography
Another easy addition to your backyard is a hammock- we have a couple and all members of the family (dogs included!) have enjoyed it as a spot to recharge.
Many of my clients have fire pit spaces in their home’s exterior design. This is a great at-home getaway spot to recreate those fun campfire moments, make smores, or just to relax and look at the stars.
There is so much potential using the outdoor areas you already have, or incorporating this into your new build home! How do you use your outdoor spaces?