The Three Most Important Requirements for an Alfresco Area Home Decoration Home Improvement by Missy Elizabeth - February 19, 2016February 19, 2016 The Three Most Important Requirements for an Alfresco Area Whether you are designing a totally new alfresco area — or you are thinking of sprucing up an existing outdoor living area — you will certainly want to incorporate some of the must-have amenities that make for an inviting and comfortable open-air relaxation and entertaining environment. When planning your open-air living, think: footing, seating and fire and/or heating source. As such, the three most important requirements for any successful alfresco area are: Image – flickr.com The Foundation or Patio The foundation of any good alfresco area is, of course, just that: the foundation! You could allocate a part of the lawn for your outdoor living use, but why do that when firmer and more permanent footing is easily achieved by using concrete, wood — or, better yet — brick paving. A concrete patio does not have to be a plain square or rectangle. Concrete patios can be curved to follow the lines of lawns or the particular shape of a house. Concrete can also be imprinted with patterns, and colored and sealed to repel dirt and stains. If the concrete is left plain, weather-resistant rugs can be used underfoot to add color, texture and softness. Brick pavers can be laid according to myriad patterns and styles, and the color/s of the brick can be selected to complement the color of the house. In addition, the overall design can be as formal or informal as you like, and the theme can range from rustic, to traditional, to one that is highly sophisticated and polished. Image – flickr.com In the case of alfresco areas that are designed on decks, a wide selection of woods is readily available. Such woods can be stained in a variety of complementary colors and, as with plain concrete, waterproof rugs can also be used to brighten and soften the overall effect. Seating Comfortable seating is paramount to alfresco living. You can choose from a wide range of exterior seating options, but outdoor lounges are, by far, the most comfortable and versatile type of seating for alfresco areas. Outdoor lounge chairs are available in a variety of materials, styles and sizes. You can add plump cushions for a soft and inviting touch. Seating options range from single lounges to sofas, gliders, chaise lounge and modular units. You and your guests will repine in all-encompassing comfort and no one will want the party to end. Modern materials and fabrics mean you will never have to worry about the effects of the weather on your outdoor lounges. Woods, rattans and metals are specially treated or coated, and fabrics are sun-proof and water- and mold-resistant. Add some coordinating pillows and a colorful throw to up the comfort ante. Cooking/Heating Features Arguably, the heart of any alfresco living area is the outdoor kitchen, grill or fire pit. Outdoor kitchens are right on-trend, and are available as brick-built or as stand-alone stainless steel units that are fully waterproof. If you choose a specially built outdoor kitchen, you can select from many architectural styles, and heating and refrigerated features can be easily incorporated into the overall plan. If your preference runs toward a regular grill, you might like to consider having a fire pit to provide a heating source on cooler evenings or nights. It would serve as a focal point, and a source around which you could arrange your outdoor lounges. Image – flickr.com Some fire pits have grates to accommodate grilling, so your heating and cooking sources are combined in one unit. Imagine reaching out to toast your marshmallows as you enjoy the warm, rosy glow of the fire. To complete the look of your alfresco area, all that’s left for you to do is add the finishing touches to the design. You can set the mood and elevate your open-air living above the ordinary by adding some or all of the following: – Sun umbrella/parasol or gazebo – Containers of bright flowers or striking ornamental plants – Well placed lighting such as solar or fairy lights – A water feature such as a stand-alone fountain – One or more outdoor statuary – A serving cart – A drinks chiller or fridge – A music source Ultimately, an alfresco living area will open up the opportunity for you to reflect your personality and lifestyle in an outdoor environment. Once you select the three most important requirements, the rest will fall into place naturally. About The Author Elizabeth is an aspiring journalist and a loving wife. Her husbane blogs at http://stevieandthree.com/, and is busy looking after the kids while Liz gets to grow her career. I love chocolate, coffee and a good movie on a beanbag!