Time To Get Outside! QUARANTINE RESET [how social distancing will inform your outdoor decor this sum

(Image: www.storimodern.com)

If you’re like me, you might be going a little stir crazy right about now. And the warmer weather is getting you really excited for the outdoor entertaining season! Yep - I’m right there with you. Of course, social distancing is going to be the interior design trend of the summer. So how can you make the most of your outdoor area - such as a patio, balcony, or backyard - while taking precautions for the health and safety of yourself, your family, and your guests?

Here are my top 4 design tips for outdoor areas and social distancing:

(Image: www.august-black.com)

1. Design for Intimate Gatherings With Small Groups.

If your outdoor area is a small space, such as a balcony, you should design for intimate gatherings, as opposed to large parties. That way, your decor makes each guest feel accommodated and leaves plenty of room for everyone to take proper safety precautions.

Decorating for small groups can be fun - especially if you are designing on a budget! You’ll save money by purchasing fewer chairs and surfaces, and leave yourself free to spend on more personal details, such as centerpieces, table settings, or plants.

(Image: www.august-black.com)

2. Create Separate Seating Areas.

For those who have a little bit more outdoor space to work with, my biggest design tip would be to create separate seating areas. This will naturally keep your family or your guests distanced from each other, without it feeling forced.

And, as a bonus, you will maximize the functionality of your outdoor space by creating separate zones. For example, a zone for relaxing, a zone for dining, and a zone for playing outside with the kids.

(Image: www.august-black.com)

3. Use Large Chairs, Such As Lounge Chairs.

This might sound silly, but the larger the chair you’re sitting in, the farther you are from the person sitting next to you. So, when you’re designing your outdoor area for the summer, I would recommend choosing sizable chairs, like lounge chairs or bucket seats.

Comfortable, trendy, and socially distant - let’s call that a win/win/win.

(Image: www.recognizealeader.com)

4. Find Natural Dividers For The Space, Like a Fire Pit.

Another way to keep people from gravitating too close together as you hang out outside is to introduce items into your design that act as natural dividers. Items that serve as barriers, such as fire pits, tall bar tables, or large potted plants will naturally do the social distancing for you!

(Image: www.storimodern.com)

5. Implement a Circular Seating Formation.

Conversational seating, or circular seating, is a great option for designing your outdoor area to comply with social distancing. Because everyone will be able to see and interact with each other in the center of the group, there is no need to keep people close.

Now get outside already! Contact August Black with any outdoor needs for this summer!