In the warm months, your outdoor space is an extension of your indoor living space. And, as any Canadian knows, you have to make the most of the time you can spend outdoors while it’s nice enough to do so!

“These days, the backyard is one of the most important spaces available. You’ve got to make it functional and multi-purpose for whatever your needs may be.”

– Chris, Office Manager

If you’re with us on turning your backyard our outdoor space into your own personal oasis, then look no further! Here are a few suggestions to create a place you’ll look forward to escaping to – whether it’s after a busy workday or post-errands, or to help start your day off on the right foot.

Au Naturel (materials, that is)

Metal is out and plastic is boring. Go for cottons, linens, wood, and wicker. Natural materials create cohesion within an outdoor space – everything looks and feels like it was pulled straight from the earth. Check out Plow & Hearth’s gorgeous wicker furniture sets and Simons’ bamboo serving and tableware in fun patterns and colours. Perfect for any decor style.

Bright and Warm Colours

Don’t be afraid of a little colour (or, a lot!). The right colours can help ground you after a stressful day, brighten your mood, or even make guests feel at home. Bright and warm colours are perfect for an outdoor space perfectly complimenting natural elements, like grass, wood, and stone. We’re excited about colours like hot pink, dusty taupe, olive green, marigold, and burnished brown for décor elements, as well as textiles, like pillows and rugs. Bouclair and Hudson’s Bay always have a great selection to suit any style, any space.

Bohemian Escape

Think eclectic but artsy and intentional! Textures and textiles, plants and flowers, statues, and sculptures. Layers of ornately patterned fabrics with worn wood accents. Décor accents with far east details add hints, and there’s no need for matchy-matchy – juxtaposition adds to the look! For a free-spirited hideaway, look no further than Home Depot’s very own “bohemian escape” dedicated section on their site. Of course, the whole point of the bohemian theme is that you can mix-and-match any styles you like to make it truly unique and your very own.

Punchy Prints

From tableware to textiles, adding some punch to your décor will really set the tone and mood for your oasis. You can get creative with your furniture (if you have space), like an outdoor sofa or chairs. If you enjoy eating al fresco, then consider updating your tableware with some trendy printed dinner plates, glasses, or serving trays. We’re particularly inspired by Anthropologie’s outdoor section and Jysk’s selection of punchy pillows and outdoor rugs.

For more bits and pieces to complete your outdoor oasis, you can visit Rakuten’s Gift Card Shop. Score gift cards to your favourite décor stores and do a little online shopping while the weather is warming up. Plus, no outdoor oasis would be complete without a drink and/or something to nibble on. Get your grocery gift cards with Cash Back and get ready to have a great summer!