Creating a Romantic Outdoor Retreat

If the thought of a romantic weeknight retreat is your idea of the perfect way to spend lazy summer nights, then create a romantic outdoor retreat.  Not only will you get to enjoy the warm summer night air, but you will also be able to cuddle up with the one you love in a cozy, romantic spot.  Whether you have a huge backyard or a small apartment balcony, you can transform your space with the quick and easy tips below.

 

Furniture

The most important aspect of your romantic retreat is the main piece of furniture - the chaise lounge.  Forget two separate chairs and opt for a reclining double chaise lounge with a thick, comfortable cushion.  This will allow you to snuggle and talk in comfort as you sip glasses of wine and enjoy being together.  Other pieces of furniture that you might want to include are small side tables and a weather and bug-proof storage chest.  The side tables can be placed on either side of the lounge and the chest can be positioned at the end.  Store a light, summer weight blanket in the chest or some towels for the hot tub. 

 

Creating the Space

Once you have the main pieces of furniture picked out, it is time to design around them.  If possible, select a secluded corner or area of your backyard.  It may be along the house where you can hang outdoor wall decorations, or it may be in a tent gazebo in one nook of the yard.  Wherever you put your romantic retreat, try to allow for some privacy from nosy neighbors and passing vehicles.  A curtained and screened gazebo is perfect for creating a romantic spot if it is available.  On an apartment balcony, place the chaise as far away from the railing and common walls as possible.  Add some strategically placed hooks to the ceiling above and hang privacy curtains around your balcony.  Your once open space will quickly become a quiet, romantic getaway right outside your sliding glass doors.

 

Decorating the Space

When designing the decor of your romantic space, think romance and passion.  Deep reds for fabric covers or plump, purple cushions on the chaise lounge will portray a much more romantic feel than Hawaiian prints or bright fluorescents.  Scroll metal wall art is also a good choice for decorating any solid walls of the romantic nook.  Choose ones that have been fashioned into candle sconces, so that you can provide some romantic mood lighting.  Be creative when it comes to choosing accessories, but stick with a common color and theme for the space's decor.

 

After a long day at work, or a hectic weekend, there is nothing like unwinding with a loved one in a quiet, comfortable space.  Turn off the air conditioner, save electricity and take your conversation outdoors to a spot that is all your own.  You may find that the quiet summer nights lull you into relaxation as you rest, nestled in your loved one's arms.