Interior designer, Tori Rubinson, shares practical steps to help you create an outdoor venue that fits your lifestyle.

Renowned Fort Worth interior designer, Tori Rubinson, provides simple steps to help fellow Fort Worthians create practical and tasteful outdoor spaces suitable for summer entertaining. “Your outdoor space is an extension of the interior of your home,” Rubinson shares. There are endless possibilities to improve your backyard to make it a functional part of your life.

When it comes to designing your space, Rubinson brings it back to the basics. “The first thing we do is ask our clients ‘How do you see yourself using this space?’” Rubinson shares. She factors in landscaping, layout, and usability of the area. It’s important to make realistic design decisions that correspond with the lifestyle you’re looking to cultivate. 

Now, without further ado, here are the five ways Rubinson says you can enhance your outdoor space for entertaining: 

1. Invest in smart outdoor appliances 

Outdoor appliances can truly transform how you entertain and use your backyard. Rubinson recommends a few of her favorite appliances that she uses in her outdoor living area. “We have a beverage fridge so the kids can grab waters, Gatorades, and juice boxes,” Rubinson says. 

You might also consider an ice machine for the purpose of entertaining. "I feel like nugget ice makes your drink so much more enjoyable,” she says. A few other suggestions include a trash can pull-out as well as a high-end powerhouse grill. “You can really cook an entire meal outside on The Link,” Rubinson shares.  

Durable countertops for preparing food make all the difference when preparing and serving a meal outdoors. You might also consider an outdoor sink for quick cleaning. 

Furniture is a key ingredient when creating an outdoor space. Choose pieces that feel livable and inviting, and coordinate fabrics with the tile or backsplash you’ve selected. 

 Lighting sets the ambiance and tone for any setting, and fixtures don’t have to be boring just because it’s outdoors. “We did really fun outdoor lighting — it’s both functional and beautiful,” Rubinson says. The lights you choose will elevate and enhance the vibe you’re looking to establish. 

5. Location of the outdoor kitchen 

Rubinson’s final tip involves the location of your outdoor entertaining area. If possible, “you want it to be easily accessible from the main kitchen and the bathroom,” she says. If you plan on preparing food indoors, this is a game-changer — it keeps the path from the kitchen to your entertaining area as short as possible. You might also consider incorporating tableware storage so dishes and utensils stay within reach. 

Tori Rubinson creates inspiring spaces that are as comfortable as they are beautiful. This Texas-based interior designer works on a wide range of high-end residential and commercial projects throughout Fort Worth. 

To see more of her work, click here. To inquire about interior design services, click here.

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