To design your dream living space outdoor, we are not about to just toss in a few chairs and call it a day. Oh no. This is the space where you’ll sip coffee in the morning, host unforgettable gatherings, or unwind in the evening breeze. We’re taking this seriously.
Growing up in Senegal, I remember countless Sunday lunches, laughter-filled afternoons, and sunset drinks enjoyed outside. Whether in private homes, cafés, or hotels, the outdoors was always the place to be. In general, outdoor spaces are an essential part of life across Africa. Think cozy courtyards in Marrakech or shaded verandahs in Tanzania—they are everywhere. Through them, I have seen some of the most stunning outdoor living spaces.
So, no matter if you have a sprawling garden or a charming patio, let’s draw inspiration from the continent and make it spectacular!
In this article:
- 1. What’s Your Outdoor Vision?
- 2. Weather-Proofing Like a Pro
- 3. Effective Layout Design
- 4. Living Space Outdoor | The Best Furniture
- 5. Let There Be (Good) Light!
- 6. Adding some Soul
- 7. Plants, Plants, and More Plants!
- 8. Living Space Outdoor Dining
- 9. Little Touches That Make a Big Difference
- 10. Don’t Forget Maintenance & Storage
1. What’s Your Outdoor Vision?
Before diving into decor, we need to take a moment to nail down your vision. What do you see when you picture your perfect outdoor space?
- A zen hideaway? Plush seating, neutral tones, and overflowing greenery. Ideal for relaxation, sun-soaking, and losing yourself in a good book.
- An entertainment lounge? Dining area, stylish bar, and ambient lighting. Your guests will never want to leave.
- A haven for family gatherings? Durable furniture, soft rugs, and playful accents for the sweetest memories.
Of course, your space doesn’t have to serve just one purpose. The magic happens when different elements blend seamlessly, which is why a strong vision is essential. This vision will guide you in making the right choices to craft a space that flows effortlessly according to your needs
2. Weather-Proofing Like a Pro
Second, we need to design in harmony with your home’s architecture. After all, no one wants to roast under the sun or get caught in unexpected rain. Your local climate should guide your choices to create a lasting outdoor setup.
Living Space Outdoor | Do You Need a Roof?
- Shaded comfort: Reed covers and wooden slats offer beautiful natural light filtration, while retractable awnings provide an adjustable solution. For areas with frequent rain, a roof extension is worth the investment—constantly moving furniture in and out of the house is not what we’re signing up for.
- Open air: If you love the sun and don’t get much rain, then weather-resistant furniture will do the trick. You can then consider stylish umbrellas which add visual interest while offering flexible shade options.
The Spectacular Touch: A pergola draped with vines for enchanting and adaptable shade.
Decor That Takes on the Elements
Whether you choose roof coverage or not, weather-resistant decor is essential for any living space outdoor. Look for these key features:
- UV-resistant fabrics keep cushions from fading faster than a beach tan.
- Natural materials like bamboo, stone, and terracotta stay cool and handle heat effortlessly.
- Windy area? Skip flimsy furniture—opt for heavy-duty wood or wrought iron.
The Spectacular Touch: A striking contrast of materials—like a large wrought iron-frame sofa paired with plush, UV-resistant cushions.
3. Effective Layout Design
This might be my favorite part. Just as traditional African compounds were designed with distinct areas for different activities, your outdoor space should follow suit. Depending on its purpose, you might include:
- A gathering area with beautiful chairs and plush cushions.
- A bar or dining setup—because everything tastes better under the sun.
- A quiet corner for reading, sipping tea, or simply enjoying the breeze.
These sections can be defined through physical separations like floor levels or plants, or subtly marked with décor pieces like a rug.
The Spectacular Touch: A seamless indoor-outdoor flow—something African compounds perfected long before it became a trend.
4. Living Space Outdoor | The Best Furniture
Furniture is the backbone of any outdoor space. Choose wisely, and it’ll serve you beautifully for years.
Materials That Last Outdoor
African outdoor spaces prioritize durability without sacrificing style—and they know their stuff. Top furniture material picks include:
- Rattan & Wicker – Lightweight, breezy, and effortlessly chic.
- Teak & Iroko Wood – Handles sun, rain, and everything in between.
- Wrought Iron – Elegant and practically indestructible.
- Stone – Bold, sleek, and built to last.
The Spectacular Touch: A statement-making stone coffee table.
Hobart 48” Stone Outdoor Coffee Table
Versatile Furniture Pieces
With these materials in mind, choose furniture that emphasizes modularity and versatility:
- Seating: Lounge chairs facing the sunset, a modular sofa, or a mix of accent chairs.
- Tables: Stone or wood tops for a grounding feel. Choose a height-adjustable coffee table for an effortless transition to dining.
- Multi-use pieces: Benches with built-in storage, foldable furniture or poufs that can serve both as seating and side tables.
The Spectacular Touch: One-arm sofas that can be combined into a striking, oversized piece for gatherings.
Swartberg Sofa 3 seater 1 arm
Comfort is Key
Just because it’s outdoors doesn’t mean we shouldn’t apply the same furnishing principles as indoors. Plan for:
- Cushions: Must be water-resistant and ridiculously comfy.
- Side tables: Because no one likes reaching too far for their drink.
- Rugs: Polypropylene options resist moisture and won’t fade in sunlight.
Now, picture yourself on a rattan sofa, palm leaves swaying, Moroccan mint tea in hand. That’s the dream.
The Spectacular Touch: An unexpectedly indoor-style rug used outdoors.
Yamina Indoor / Outdoor Rug
5. Let There Be (Good) Light!
If you’re anything like me, you are all over golden hour. Nothing beats natural light, but an outdoor space should shine just as much at night as it does during the day. Here are our top picks for yours:
- Statement pendants over the dining area.
- String lights for cozy ambiance.
- Fire pits or African-style braziers for warmth and atmosphere.
Imagine storytelling under the stars, the flicker of firelight casting soft shadows around you. Now that’s an outdoor experience worth having.
The Spectacular Touch: Moroccan lanterns playfully scattered throughout the space.
Mini Moroccan Lanterns : Set of 2
6. Adding some Soul
Your outdoor space should carry the essence of who you are. This is your happy place—make it feel like it.
Color It Right
Who wants a dull all-white living space outdoor? Not us. Instead, go for:
- Earthy hues: Terracotta, ochre, and warm neutrals for a calming vibe.
- Bold accents: Deep indigo blues, fiery reds, and lush greens bring vibrant energy.
- High-contrast drama: Whitewashed walls with dark wood, or a bold statement wall painted in a bright color.
The Spectacular Touch: Blending multiple accent colors for added flair and personality.
Zanzibar Pillow – 100% Cotton
Layer in Texture
- Woven cushions & throws for an inviting feel.
- Statement clay pots & carved sculptures for visual interest.
- Pattern-filled textiles like traditional mud cloth or paintings that speak to your soul.
The Spectacular Touch: A stunning African clay pot.
Handmade Zulu Pot
7. Plants, Plants, and More Plants!
No outdoor space is complete without greenery. Whether you have a green thumb or prefer low-maintenance options, here are some favorites:
- Aloe Vera & Succulents: Perfect for hot, dry spots.
- Banana Trees & Palms: Instant tropical vibes.
- Bougainvillea: Cascading blooms in rich colors.
Pair them with woven baskets or terracotta planters for an effortlessly chic look.
The Spectacular Touch: Don’t limit yourself to just plants—mix in potted trees for extra dimension.
8. Living Space Outdoor Dining
Across Africa, outdoor dining is a way of life. Nothing beats a meal under the open sky. When it comes to your outdoor dining setup, the options are endless. Ultimately, it’s all about how you use the space:
- Wooden feasting tables for big, hearty meals.
- Low-seating lounges inspired by Moroccan tea setups.
- Outdoor kitchen: A built-in braai (South African BBQ) or clay oven for homemade bread.
Picture sizzling spices in the air, shared laughter, and plates piled high with flavorful dishes. That’s the magic of outdoor dining done right.
The Spectacular Touch: A long wooden dining table surrounded by woven chairs, under a canopy of string lights.
Discover the best of outdoor seating with our selection of 15 Terrace Chairs to Relax in Style.
9. Little Touches That Make a Big Difference
A functional, modular outdoor space is essential, but adding an eye-catching showpiece is the cherry on top. These details elevate a good space into something jaw-dropping:
- Hammocks or swing chairs for the ultimate relaxation spot.
- Outsized art such as a statement-making sculpture nestled in the corner of your outdoor area.
- Water features like a small fountain for calming energy.
The Spectacular Touch: combining all of the above.
Steel Recliner Hanging Chair
10. Don’t Forget Maintenance & Storage
To keep your outdoor space looking fresh:
- Smart storage: Weatherproof cabinets or woven baskets.
- Regular TLC: Wipe furniture, fluff cushions, trim plants.
- Seasonal tweaks: Extra shade for hotter months, cozy blankets for chilly nights.
With the great outdoors, a little upkeep goes a long way. Now, time to pour yourself a drink and enjoy your newly designed dream space!
Your Dream Living Space Outdoor Awaits
Creating a living space outdoor is about understanding the principles that make outdoor living special: community, functionality, and connection to nature.
Transforming your outdoor space is a journey, not a weekend project. Start with the elements that speak to you most, whether that’s a cozy seating area with cozy pillows or a fire pit surrounded by the most gorgeous accent chairs. Let your space evolve organically, just like the best African designs do.
So light those lanterns, pour a glass of something delicious, and step into your personal outdoor haven. The adventure begins right at home!
