2007 Design Forecast: Imagination Wins!

Part V
by Pam Milam

The distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces continues to blur as we spend more time outdoors whether entertaining, playing or just enjoying a quiet, peaceful respite from the busy workday world. The desire to entertain year round has created a design movement to develop outdoor “rooms” that provide comfort and style across the seasons. The simple “barbeque grill in the corner of the patio” of years past has now developed into a complete outdoor kitchen, providing all the amenities of a full service cooking center. This year, “barbeque islands”, which can be custom built or purchased ready made, can include not only the aforementioned grill, which has morphed into a stainless steel state-of-the-art gas grill, but also storage space, warming drawers, a small refrigerator and plenty of bartop area for the crowd to gather around as the steaks are grilling.

Whether you want to settle in solo with a good book or enjoy a lively conversation with friends, comfortable outdoor seating is essential. Outdoor furniture has now become almost indistinguishable from its indoor cousins, with sofas, chaises, club chairs and ottomans upholstered with plush cushions in vibrant fabrics. Add a small table to accommodate a tall iced tea, an area rug especially designed for outdoor use, accessorize with candles and pillows, and your outdoor living room will rival the refinement, comfort and style of your family room indoors. Of course, a sparkling pool, spa or hot tub, firepit or outdoor fireplace, trickling water feature or sport/play area will only add to the enjoyment of your backyard sanctuary!

Now is the time to take advantage of 2007’s eclectic style trends and create a unique atmosphere in your home that friends and family will never want to leave. Never before has there been a better time to cultivate your style, your imagination and your dream home. Get started... it’s only a fantasy away!

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Pam Milam is the Owner of Reinvented Rooms, an interior design firm located in Fresno, CA. Reinvented Rooms is California’s only nationally certified interior arrangement and design firm. She can be reached by telephone at 559.435.0850 or by email at pam@reinventedrooms.com. Be sure to sign up to receive her FREE design newsletter, "Rethink.Renew.Reinvent!", filled with decorating tips and expert “tricks of the trade”. You can subscribe via email at pam@reinventedrooms.com or by visiting her firm’s website at http://www.reinventedrooms.com.