It’s no secret that an outdoor living space can be an extension of the home – especially in the south. The Lowcountry lifestyle calls for plenty of time on the porch, whether it be enjoying meals and drinks with family and friends, or simply reading a book on a hot summer day. Creating an outdoor living space with Lowcountry flair means embracing the mix of Lowcountry design and coastal interior design, and pulling inspiration from the area’s natural beauty.
At CHD, our interior design team consists of experts on Lowcountry design who know firsthand how to incorporate southern charm into a functional and robust outdoor living space. Let us walk you through the process of designing a Lowcountry outdoor living oasis!
Furniture
To build an inviting outdoor living space, begin with high-quality, comfortable outdoor furniture. Select furniture that encourages socializing and comfort.
Lowcountry outdoor living furniture essentials include:
- Cushioned chairs/couches: Opt for wide wicker chairs with plush cushions for maximum comfort and relaxation.
- Rocking chairs: Place rocking porches on the front porch to give your home a welcoming feel.
- Porch swings: Nothing beats enjoying a book on a porch swing during the Summer, select a wooden swing with cushions or a colored swing to add interest.
- Dining tables: During Lowcountry springs and summers, meals are often outside. Choose a round table to encourage conversation and more time with loved ones.
In the Lowcountry, comfort tends to come first – especially during the summertime months. When selecting furniture, our designers prefer to select options that provide both comfort and a social environment for your guests. Furthermore, due to the regional climate, it is critical to invest in quality furniture pieces and fabrics to withstand the humid Lowcountry weather and coastal breeze.
Shading
Speaking of the Lowcountry climate, the heat is no joke during the summertime in the South, as you likely know well. This means proper shading is crucial for any outdoor living space in the Lowcountry – and in the great majority of the South.
When expanding an outdoor living space beyond simply porch-covered areas, umbrellas or tents are incredibly valuable to provide shade during hot summer days. For larger spaces, some consider shade sails or even strategic landscaping to provide additional shade opportunities.
Landscaping
The landscaping of your outdoor space can be an excellent opportunity to incorporate Lowcountry flair beyond simply furniture and decor. Embrace the natural elements with plants native to the environment, like:
- Palmetto Trees/ Palms: These ornamental trees give the space a tropical feel and do great in the coastal climate of the area. Beyond aesthetics, they provide much-needed shade during the hot Lowcountry summers.
- Live Oaks: A Lowcountry classic, live oaks are beautiful native trees draped in Spanish moss that also provide shade. Seek inspiration from some of the most beautiful live oaks in the Lowcountry like the historic Angel Oak on Johns Island.
- Shrubs: Shrubs are both beautiful and functional as they enhance all landscapes while also providing privacy hedges. One of our favorites in the Lowcountry is the Wax Myrtle, which does well in the coastal climate.
- Native Flowering Plants: Azaleas, Camellias, and Coastal grasses are additional plants native to the area that are Lowcountry essentials. Our designer favorites like the vibrant Purple Coneflower and Carolina Jessamine not only add color but also attract pollinators, adaptable in diverse environments with minimal upkeep.
To further embrace the coastal design in your outdoor space consider adding a water element to your landscaping. Ponds, fountains, birdbaths, and pools turn your outdoor space into a serene environment reminiscent of the coast nearby.
If your yard has a pool, popular Lowcountry flair can involve incorporating palmetto or palm trees for a tropical feel and shade. Accent the area with poolside furniture like lounge chairs, umbrellas, and outdoor couches to create a relaxing oasis.
Coastal Design Influence
Being so close to the water, incorporating coastal design influences into your outdoor living space is a quintessential Lowcountry interior design trick.
Our designers love to incorporate coastal color palettes including light blues and greens within furniture, rugs, or decor to incorporate a coastal ambiance within the outdoor space. Adding antique decor that is reminiscent of the coast like shells, coral, and driftwood can also be impactful.
By incorporating coastal elements into your outdoor space can make you feel like you stepped onto a beach every time you step outside.
Final Touches
Now that you have a well-shaded space with inviting furnishings, native landscaping, and a coastal element, it’s time to finish the space with traditional elements and personal decor.
Traditional Lowcountry Design
Certain interior design elements are very closely associated with the Southern Lowcountry style. Don’t forget these staples:
- Haint blue porch ceilings
- Plantation shutters
- Gas lanterns
- Joggle Board
Personalized and Antique Decor
Your space will begin to feel like home by adding art and decorative objectives that reflect your style. In weather-shielded areas, you may be able to incorporate art that depicts iconic low country scenes or add a handmade woven basket by a local artist. Whatever it is that reflects your style, adding decorative objects and knick-knacks will make your space feel complete.
Antique decor is a great way to mix the old with the new. Visit antique shops in the Lowcountry area to incorporate traditional interior design into your space. Additionally, adding antique decor will give your space a more comfortable and lived-in feel.
Create a Lowcountry Outdoor Living Space with CHD Interiors
At CHD, our team of expert interior designers knows how to do Lowcountry design right. Whether you’re revamping an old space or starting from scratch, we’ll help you turn your outdoor living space into a Lowcountry oasis.
We serve many areas throughout the beautiful North and South Carolina, so be sure to consult with our design team today to begin bringing your outdoor oasis to life.
