“Bringing the outside in” is a common refrain when finding decorating inspiration for your home, but what do you do when you want to decorate an outdoor living space? You “bring the indoors out!”

The backyard has become more than just the place where the kids play. These days it has evolved into an extension of your home’s living space where you can entertain, dine out, or just relax so it makes sense to give it the same thoughtful design planning you spent in your home. Here are some ways you can transform your backyard into a dreamy outdoor retreat:

Bring the Indoors Out

Your backyard isn’t its own entity; it’s an extension of your home so it only serves to let your personal style extend to your outdoor space. Doing so will create a seamless connection between both sections of the house.

Create Zones

If your outdoor space allows, create functional zones: eating, entertaining, relaxing, etc. and furnish each area appropriately. Be sure to allow for a natural traffic flow throughout the space.

Invest in Durable Furniture

How ever you choose to decorate your outdoor space, make sure you choose durable, weather-resistant furniture and fabrics that can withstand being outside in all kinds of weather. Make sure to bring in anything (like pillows or throw blankets) inside during inclement weather.

Light it Up

Lighting can make or break a room, even outside. If you want to be able to enjoy your outdoor space once the sun sets, consider hanging solar-powered lights or indoor-outdoor lamps around your space so you can continue the spending time outside well into the evening.