After a long winter curled up on the couch and keeping warm indoors, having an outdoor space where you can entertain, read, or simply hang out by yourself can provide a literal breath of fresh air to your life at home. Here are three ways that you can create an open-air space that fits your lifestyle.

Maintain the Comforts of Home

It can be tempting to purchase the cheapest furniture for your outdoor oasis. However, if you want to maximize the value of having a garden retreat, it’s important to make sure you create a space that you’re going to want to spend time in — and one that’s built to last. This may mean outdoor seat cushions for your chairs, an umbrella to shade you from the sun, and outlets so you can use electronic devices outside or hook up a great pair of waterproof speakers.

Having an alfresco space combines the comforts of being at home with the tranquility of spending time outdoors. Make sure to take advantage of the potential for relaxation that a rustic escape provides by emphasizing both coziness and durability.

Design It To Entertain

Having garden gatherings in warm weather can be a great way to have a large number of people over without worrying about creating a mess inside your home that you will inevitably end up having to clean. If you prefer your gatherings in the evenings, employing the use of custom exterior lighting is an easy way to create a warm ambiance and allow for outdoor fun long after the sun sets. A grill is another great addition to an entertainment-focused sanctuary, as you’ll be able to cook a delicious meal while spending continuous time with your company.

Make It Your Own

Finally, remember that your backyard haven is an extension of your home. You can customize it to fit your specific tastes. Whether you want greenery everywhere, multiple televisions to make sure you don’t miss a game, or a tropical theme, keep in mind your personal interests when creating your outdoor retreat. Just like the interior of your home or apartment, your yard should be a reflection of you. Plus, after undertaking the project of designing a rustic refuge, you’ll want to spend as much time as you can in the space you worked so hard to create. Make sure this time will be enjoyable and relaxing by tailoring your open-air retreat to your particular tastes.

The possibilities of a backyard oasis are endless. From entertaining guests to sunbathing to firing up the grill, you have myriad options for designing and using your perfect outdoor escape.