Summer is officially here in Walnut Creek, CA, and it’s the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor spaces for family get-togethers and BBQs. As an East Bay interior designer, I’m excited to share some tips for designing a stylish and functional space that fits your lifestyle. Relax and enjoy these easy ideas for gardening, decorating, and cooking!
Furniture
Choose furniture that can withstand your local weather and humidity. In Walnut Creek, CA, where summers are dry and hot, natural teak furniture is a fantastic choice due to its durability and natural beauty. Aluminum furniture is also a stylish and long-lasting option, but remember to add cushions for extra comfort. Ensure there are ample walkways and enough room to push chairs out comfortably. Simple is always better!
Greenery
Use potted plants to add greenery and versatility to your backyard. Potted plants allow you to easily change up your space with different colored flowers or succulents. Succulents, in particular, are low-maintenance and add a modern, sculptural touch to your outdoor dining table. They thrive in pots where you can control their light and water requirements more easily.
Accessories
Throw pillows and outdoor rugs are quick and easy ways to bring your space together with fun pops of color. I highly recommend using Sunbrella fabric for outdoor cushions and pillows. While they require some care, their durability and vibrant colors make them worth it. My Sunbrella pillows, cushions, and umbrellas have lasted over five years!
Lighting
Set the mood with outdoor lighting. String lights across your pergola or trees to create a warm, inviting ambiance for evening relaxation. Solar-powered string lights are a great option since they don’t require electricity or cords. I purchased mine at Costco before my daughter’s graduation party over five years ago, and they’re still shining brightly!
Yoko’s Easy American Summer Entertaining BBQ Menu with a Japanese Twist
- Hamburger with panko and green onions on French buns, topped with fresh heirloom tomatoes, lettuce, and Gruyere cheese
- Grilled locally sourced corn in season
- Japanese-style potato salad
- Fresh dill pickles from Costco
- Cabbage and kale salad with Asian sesame dressing
- Cold watermelon in season
- American chocolate chip cookies (My Japanese contribution is their size is small and sugar is much less.)
I’m Yoko Oda, a San Francisco Bay Area-based interior designer with Yoko Oda Design LLC. I love incorporating outdoor elements into my designs and sharing design advice and inspiration on my website. Let’s make this summer unforgettable with a beautiful, functional indoor and outdoor space!
Ready to turn your design dreams into reality? Whether you’re dreaming of a kitchen remodel, a cozy living room makeover, or expert interior decorating services, I’m here to help. As an experienced East Bay full-service interior designer, I specialize in bringing visions to life. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards transforming your space!
For more information on interior design and remodeling services in Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Orinda, Danville, CA and beyond, reach out to me today!
*Featured images by Yoko Oda of Yoko Oda Interior Design
