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Thursday, July 25, 2013

Top 10 Summer Patios

Summer in Milan is killing a gal. As in your girl is melting – into a puddle of good intentions on her living room floor. It is not a pretty sight. This sad state of affairs is largely due to the fact that my summer apartment does not possess a patio – let alone a minuscule balcony. Today, as I counted my misfortunes, I sent my fantasies to the virtual pages of Houzz and co. where the patioed elite brandish their decks, hammocks and umbrella-covered recliners. Sad life I lead. But let’s move on and let me share my finds.

To say that I struggled to limit my list to just 10 is an understatement. As I move on from my envy I must admit that there are so many gorgeous spaces littered all over the internet. Decks, patios, verandas galore.

I truncated this list to focus on spaces with lounging allure – that is, how much do these spaces make me want to drape myself in reckless abandon and surrender to a permanent life of leisure? Some ladies lunch (though I do that too), I lounge. Preferably with a drink of something cold, bubbly and alcoholic (I am not talking about beer).

So come, let’s have a look…

10: This decor is very refined and sedate. I love the soft canopy over the couch and the muted colours. It's classy and understated. The leather-studded poufs add that "something different" factor.

9: I love this for its Moroccan/Mediterranean feel. The wire-frame armchair keeps things from getting too chunky and the contrasting patterns in the cushion and table cloth provide interest. Navy blue, burgundy and terracotta work well to suggest the sea and the earth; the space is set up well for summer entertaining.
HOUZZ
8: I found the nested bed/alcove charming and unexpected - it reminds me of the places I used to love to hide in when I was small - can absolutely imagine curling up there with a good book. I like the muted colour tones and the contrast of rustic surroundings with soft pillows (I would add a neutral throw for warmth).
PAOLA LENTI
7: This covered patio makes an excellent use of space - a spattering of mix-match cushions, exposed ceiling beams, lots of carved wood and brass artifacts... The archways open in out to the gorgeous lake and forest view and unexpected herringbone tiling adds that something special. A perfectly positioned fireplace seals the deal on this Moroccan-inspired space.
HOUZZ
6: Can we say "WOW" for this resort? Set on the water, the thatched roof and paneled walls warm me up inside. There is space for sunbathing, dining, lounging, napping and, of course, dipping in the pool. It is perfectly multi-functional and the set-up does all the work for our holidaying eye (notice the simple furniture and basic colour scheme).
5: My my my. The creativity of this pit-like garden space is so large. I love how it sinks into the ground but stands out because of the vibrantly coloured cushions. There's a great respect for nature in the choice of materials here - woods, gravel, stone and concrete. Very eco-friendly and super low-maintenance. I can imagine hanging out here with my family on cool summer nights. 
HOUZZ
4: Super charming, this space is - from the hurricane lanterns to the woven reed chairs. It's so unfussy and chilled. I'm enjoying the earthy colour scheme (rustic reds and browns with warm blues). It's great for entertaining -  with the small dining table and well placed side tables. Hanging light linen curtains is clever to keep out chilly winds or hot sunlight. Well done.
3: I just love the impromptu nature of this grassland hangout spot. It's not really a patio so forgive a gal for sneaking it into here but I just couldn't resist. I love how hidden and special it feels. The decor is simple - the stunning surrounds do all the work. It's incredibly unfussy but decidedly well executed. The fireplace makes me think of autumn sundowners with friends or a post-dinner night cap. Very unusual and completely jealousy inducing.

2: My goodness me; do I love this?! Well done to this patio for so many reasons - character and flair (colours and wrought iron table), knack for the unexpected (cushioned hammock) and excellent use of space. It is cosy and welcoming and filled with colour and light. I could hang out here for hours (and when I was tired of hanging I would just fall asleep on the hammock!).

1: The winner! This deck fills me with joy. The rays of sun bouncing off a yellow stole with matching pillows... Geometric patters just make things so interesting and elevate the whole situation to a classy level. I like the eclectic mix of accessories in the stool and lantern. The wicker recliner is so inviting and I can just imagine it being positioned poolside or beachside - ready for a dip in cool waters. It could just be the gorgeous sunset background that is driving my winning score (disclaimer) but I don't care - it's lovely.



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I do not claim the rights to any images on this blog, unless stated otherwise. If you have any concerns regarding the content of ZUVALifeCulture, please send an email to tenjiwe@zuvainteriors.com.

6 comments:

  1. I would absolutely love to get a patio that looks like this. I think that a patio can really make your whole yard look good. Plus, it can be a great place to kick back and relax! http://lifestylepatios.com

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  2. It's just wonderful,.i really like your pictures ,..It looks very attractive,
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