Our Home: Outdoor Living

One of my favorite parts of our home is one I’ve too rarely used: there’s a small, private patio just off to the side of our bedroom that makes the whole room feel more open just by virtue of its being there. Still, it has always fallen short of its full potential.

When Arhaus reached out to see if I needed any help pulling an outdoor space together, I jumped at the opportunity to finally make this into a true retreat. They have a rich selection of unique, well-designed items—including some really beautiful outdoor furnishings—that I’d been admiring for a long time.

I’m so excited about how inviting the space has become. It finally feels like a true extension of our home.

(Shown: Dot Garden Stool (similar) / Manhattan Outdoor Lounge Chair / Manhattan Outdoor Side TableMarled Grey Knit Throw / Basket (similar)/ Flax Limosges Fringe Throw (similar), on bed)

I chose the teak armchair from their Manhattan line and the wood is so pretty. I couldn’t stop running my hand over it. I love the slatted design.

I was happy to learn that Arhaus has a long-standing commitment to never use wood from endangered rain forests, and an emphasis on sustainable design, because the teak is so beautiful and durable. Over time it will develop a natural-grey patina, which will be beautiful as well—though the oils in the wood help it to do well in the elements. For the time being, I think I’ll cover it during spring showers.

By the way, I love that potato vine that grows along the fence back there. We’ve nearly killed it a few times—by over-cutting or pulling it off to paint—and it always seems to come back stronger than ever. Plus, it makes flowers that seem to last well into fall! (Here’s an image from our first home tour.)

As for those bright-white cushions, I’ll confess it’s going to be hard the first time I have to watch the kids put dirty feet on them, but they’re covered with weather-resistant Sunbrella fabric that I know can be easily cleaned.

Of course, this space really does tend to be one of the more kid-free zones of our house—so it is particularly suited to a beautiful, comfortable armchair.

Sometimes, if I have a babysitter over while I work, I’ll move between the office and the bedroom by going outside—but now I think I’ll just stay in the bedroom.

(Shown: Dot Garden Stool (similar) / Manhattan Outdoor Lounge Chair / Manhattan Outdoor Side TableMarled Grey Knit Throw / Basket (similar))

I realize I won’t always get to live out this lemonade-sipping, book-in-hand romantic vision of my afternoons, but this has made it possible!

(And as you now know, I have a lot of reading to do.)

Now here’s the best news! [Update: This giveaway is closed.]

Arhaus is letting me give away a $500 gift card to one of you today! Just visit the Arhaus site, pick a favorite piece or two and leave a comment here by 11:59am PST Friday 5/18/18. (Please note: Arhaus employees and their family members are not eligible.)

Here are a few more of my favorite outdoor living picks from Arhaus.

1. Hamptons Outdoor Bar Cart / 2. Cotton Weave Ivory-Blue Throw / 3. Garden Stool in Antique White / 4. Outdoor Umbrella in Canvas Coal / 5. Marled Grey Knit Throw / 6. Dhurrie-Siya Link Indoor-Outdoor Pillow / 7. Arlo Outdoor Lounge Chair / 8. Root Outdoor Coffee Table

If you’re looking for more decorating inspiration, check out my Arhaus Pinterest board! Their team of product buyers travel to and work with skilled artisans all over the world, and there’s some really beautiful pieces.

Which items would you choose? 

P.S. Our home tour: Living RoomBedrooms, and Backyard.

This post is sponsored by Arhaus. Thank you for supporting Hither & Thither. 

 

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