For the last 15 years, the term ‘Outdoor Room’ has been used by realtors and homeowners to refer to any type of seating outside. The truth is, you can’t assume that if you have a deck or a patio, you have an outdoor room. Here are the key items you need for today’s definition of the Outdoor Room

1. Just like any indoor room, your outdoor space needs a good floor.  Decks and patios have traditionally been the best choice because they hold their value the longest with minimal effort. If you already have a patio or a deck, consider adding an outdoor area rug.  A well-placed rug can define a space, introduce a colour scheme or even create a focal point.
2. Outdoor walls are not just for hanging pots.  The walls around your outdoor room are also very important to create privacy. Now a fence around your property does NOT count as a wall.  To me, the fence defines a boundary, whereas the walls around an outdoor room create intimacy and keep your guests from feeling like they are on display; think lattice panel or a privacy screen
3. Not just for blocking the sun, an outdoor roof defines the room.  My favourite option will always be the pergola. Great for growing vines, creating ambience, even for hanging outdoor lights, the pergola makes any outdoor space feel welcoming and intimate.