Interior architect Birgit Jaanus has extensive experience in creating inspiring indoor and outdoor spaces that bring joy to people. We asked her to share with our followers the most important aspects to consider when furnishing an outdoor area. Whether it’s a balcony or a spacious garden, these three simple questions are worth thinking about for anyone with an outdoor space to enjoy.
Fresh air and a connection to nature are just as influential. Even from an apartment window, you can observe budding trees or birds bustling about. The more time we spend outdoors in natural light, the better. In our daily routines, we often forget how much of a difference even five minutes of morning coffee on the terrace can make to our well-being.
So, how can we make our outdoor spaces so inviting that they become an everyday part of our lives? I believe that design can shape our habits, and I’m happy to share a few ideas on how to make your outdoor space a place that always calls you outside.
1. Think About What You Actually Want to Do Outdoors
We are all different, and our motivation comes from various sources.
- Some value quiet mornings with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Others love hosting guests and preparing elaborate meals outdoors.
- Some prioritize afternoons with children and pets or tending to their garden.
When designing your outdoor space, it’s crucial to create an environment suited to your favorite activities—this increases the likelihood of actually using the space as intended.
2. Get to Know Your Space
Indoor design often takes priority, and outdoor areas tend to be furnished much later. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing—if your outdoor space remains empty for a while, use this time wisely.
For instance, observe the sun and wind throughout different seasons. This helps determine:
- Where to place a windscreen or sunshade
- The best seating areas for morning and evening sun
- How to enhance views or bring in greenery if none is naturally visible
By understanding your space, you can create a terrace or balcony that adapts to your lifestyle and the elements.
3. Create the Right Conditions for Your Favorite Activities
Once you know what you want to do outdoors and where things should go, you can finalize your space with the right furniture, lighting, and details.
- A cozy morning coffee nook with a comfortable chair, a throw blanket, or even a heat lamp
- A dining area for evening meals, featuring a fire pit and ambient lighting
- A mud kitchen for children placed in a wind-protected corner that isn’t directly under the scorching midday sun
- Sheltered areas and wind barriers for comfort in all weather
I firmly believe there’s no such thing as bad weather—just bad planning. With the right design choices, you can enjoy your outdoor space year-round. The more we step outside, the healthier and happier we become.
Interior architect Birgit Jaanus graduated from the Estonian Academy of Arts, specializing in interior architecture and furniture design. Her experience in various architecture firms has shaped her into the designer she is today. She values the insights gained from Tiiu Truus, the expertise in blending indoor and outdoor spaces acquired at HGA, and the opportunity to lead a department at Architect 11. Additionally, Birgit has entrepreneurial experience in product design and plant-based interiors under the name Arkiplant. For the past four years, she has worked as a freelance interior architect.
If you need help designing the perfect outdoor space, check out the terrace design packages we have created in collaboration with Birgit.
📩 Get in touch:
✉️ info@livoutdoor.eu | 📞 6 888 617
💌 Contact Birgit directly: birgitjaanus@gmail.com
📷 Instagram: @kohal_studio
Photo Credit: Markus Spiske (Unsplash)
