Cozy Nooks: Creating a Secret
Outdoor Place
by: Debbie Rodgers
 Everyone
seems to love a secret -- and when the secret is a nook in your outdoor
space, all the better. A nook is defined as a private or secluded quiet
inner place. Any outside space, from a balcony to an acre estate can
benefit from including a nook. Here are points to consider:
Purpose
It doesn't make any sense to set up a
secluded garden reading bench if you never have the time to pick up a
book. But maybe you'd like to spend 15 minutes in the morning over
coffee with your partner, or want to have a quiet spot for conversing
with a special friend. Or maybe your nook will be an intimate dining
space for four. Consider what you really want to do with your outside
space and then make your nook available for that. Otherwise, you'll end
up with a space that's lovely to look at but seldom used.
Mystery
Much of the charm of a nook is the
secrecy of the space. To achieve this, hide the furnishings at least
partially from view. In a garden you might do this with a fence, the
wall of an outbuilding or a hedge. On a porch or balcony, consider using
fabric panels or drapes, pots and planters or a decorative screen.
Lattice screening is especially appropriate to create a nook area on a
deck. If your space is small, consider keeping the height of any
dividers under 4 ft. That will allow for a feeling of privacy in the
nook, yet not completely cut off the visual flow of the space.
Boundaries
Hiding the furnishings from view may also
help with another design principle that should be applied in your nook
-- defining the boundaries of that space. A nook is often closed in on
three sides by walls, plantings, trees, arbors, fences and so on.
You can also define the nook's space by
changing the flooring in that area. This might mean a few flagstones in
the grass; a different color of stain (or a painted faux rug) on the
deck; or a scatter mat on a protected balcony or porch. Consider, too,
the ceiling. A leafy bough overhead, a pergola or a ring of mosquito
netting can all serve as a roof for the area.
It's not necessary to have three walls,
and a delineated floor and a roof, but at least some of these elements
will help define the nook and create the cozy feel of a hideaway. A
well-defined point of entry also adds to the welcoming effect.
Comfort
What furnishings your nook will hold
depends on your use for it. But whether it's a reading chair, a
conversation bench or a small dining table, be sure the furniture is
comfortable to use. Seating should support you properly and tables
should be the proper height for relaxing dining. Side tables for coffee
or books should be easily accessible. If you'll be reading in the
evening, you'll want to consider lighting that is restful to your eyes.
And have always have lots of cushions and pillows so you can sink into
them!
Finishing Touches
Try to include some greenery in your nook
if it isn't there naturally. It will add color, texture and luxury to
the space. If you can, include a favorite piece of whimsy that
personalizes your nook. Remember that, although the view looking into
your nook is half the fun, the view looking out can add immeasurably to
the pleasure of the time you spend there. Keep it in mind when you're
situating your space.
Use these principles and create a secret
nook that will give unexpected delight to you and your guests alike.
|
Debbie Rodgers, the haven maven, owns and
operates Paradise Porch, and is dedicated to helping people
create outdoor living spaces that nurture and enrich them. Her
latest how-to guide “Attracting Butterflies to Your Home and
Garden” is now available on her web site. Visit her at
www.paradiseporch.com
and get a free report on “Eight easy ways to create privacy in
your outdoor space”. Mail to
debbie@paradiseporch.com
|
|
