How to Create Relaxing Summer Outdoor Spaces

Summer is here! We have a short window of warm weather and sun here in the PNW. So it’s important to take full advantage of this time, by creating relaxing summer outdoor spaces. I’ll show you how I made a place to escape, unwind and enjoy all that summer has to offer.

greenhouse and birdhouse overlooking the Puget Sound

If this is your first time here, welcome! I am so happy to have you here. I share my PNW beach cottage and garden on my blog, where we live on the Puget Sound. We’ve spent the last 8 years renovating, improving, and adding character and charm to our 100-year-old cottage.

2 Adirondack chairs overlooking the garden and the Puget Sound

I have a passion for home decor and creating warm and cozy spaces. I also have a true love for gardening and stepped up my game when we built a greenhouse 3 years ago. There’s nothing that makes me happier than growing flowers and veggies from seed. You can read more about me and my blog here.

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2 asirondeck chairs on a stone patio in a cottage garden

Seating Areas Throughout the Garden

My favorite thing in the garden, besides the flowers, is finding the perfect seating area, which is an ideal place to relax and take in the view.

Green vintage chair surrounded by snapdragons

I love having the opportunity to just take a seat and watch the butterflies and birds, and to smell the beautiful fresh flowers in the summertime.

greenhouse with vintage chair and flower containers next to it.

Seating areas tucked here and there throughout the gardens make for a romantic and peaceful sanctuary.

Here’s a perfect retreat to escape and have my morning coffee.

Decorate with Lighting

For instant ambiance and a whimsical feel, light up your gardens any time of the year with a string or more of lights. This is the perfect way to create a relaxing outdoor summer space.

Twinkle lights, lanterns, candles, and solar lighting are just a few options for lighting up the garden in the summer evening.

A Bird Sanctuary

I get so much enjoyment from anything associated with birds. Whether it’s a birdhouse, bird feeder, or birdbath, they are such a relaxing addition to my gardens. This birdhouse is from Good Directions.

Garden Spaces

Have you heard of garden therapy? It’s real my friends. And I can’t think of a better way to relax and enjoy the outdoors than hang out in these garden spaces.

Take a stroll through the garden by following the curved pathways.

And if you’re like Jax, the greenhouse is another place to rest and enjoy the view. That is, as long as the doors and windows are open!

Here’s a view of my first cosmos bloom. Just wait until mid-July, when the garden will be exploding!

I don’t know about you, but this potting bench is my happy place. Planting flowers is a great way to relax and get your hands dirty!

Add a Fire Pit

Fire pits are great for outdoor fun! Make sure you keep s’more makings on hand at all times. You never know when the urge will hit!

When it is too dry to light a fire during a summer burn ban, drape a battery-powered strand of small string lights over a pile of wooden logs.

A Hammock is Perfect for Relaxation

Hanging a hammock will give you the ideal place to relax and lounge around during the warm summer days. This is a perfect spot for reading a book, taking an afternoon nap, or enjoying a cocktail.

Turn Your Deck Or Patio Into an Outdoor Living Space

Your outdoor living space should feel like an extension of the indoors. It’s the perfect summer getaway.

We chose furniture that would not only be comfortable, but durable as well. Living in the Pacific Northwest, we had to make sure we picked furniture, pillows, and rugs that would hold up in the rain.

Cast Some Shade

Create some summer outdoor spaces that provide shade and comfort from the hot temperatures and bright sun.

There are many options that will deliver shade on a summer day…

Umbrellas
Gazebos
Awnings
Arbors and pergolas with growing vines
Trees.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the relaxing outdoor spaces I’ve created in my yard and gardens for summer. I hope you visit again for more garden and home decor inspiration, and tips. Follow me over on Instagram to see more everyday living and stories.