Make the Most of Your Patio or Balcony With These Decorating Tips
There’s a reason that patios and balconies are such coveted apartment perks. They make it easy to get some fresh air without leaving the comfort of your own home, and they’re great entertainment spaces during the warmer months. If you really want to get the most out of your patio or balcony, follow these tips to maximize the space.
Opt for multipurpose furniture. In order to create a comfy space to hang out, you’ll have to fill at least some of your patio with furniture. However, you want to keep things as simple as possible, so opt for smaller pieces of furniture that can pull double-duty, such as ottomans that offer both seating and storage.
Don’t go overboard. You might be tempted to stuff your balcony full of cushy furniture, but fight that urge. When you’re working with a small space, less is more. Only add as much furniture as you need, and choose items that take up less room, such as wrought-iron chairs with comfy cushions.
Focus on the flow. When you start to arrange your furniture, keep in mind that you won’t just be sitting out on the patio. You’ll have to get in and out easily to grab another pitcher of lemonade or answer the door when a new friend arrives. Circle up your furniture in a way that allows for easy conversation and flow of traffic.
Never skimp on plants. The one area where you don’t have to hold back? Greenery. Your outdoor space should feel like an oasis, and plants can help achieve that effect. Try to find unused space for planters, like a corner tucked away behind a chair, or add flower boxes to your railing for some extra life and color.
15 Small Patio Decorating Ideas [HGTV]
How to Make the Most of Your Seriously Small Apartment Balcony [Apartment Therapy]
Four Tips for Decorating a Small Patio With Style [The Spruce]
Add a Live Performance at The Fillmore to Your Summer Bucket List
Since 2011, the Fillmore has been a staple in the arts and entertainment industry in Silver Spring, bringing plenty of impressive and inspirational shows and events to our city. With a capacity of just over 2,000, it still offers a more personal experience than a lot of the larger venues you may frequent. Rather than your standard date night with dinner and a movie, why not try something new and head to The Fillmore for live entertainment?
Coming up in August, there is just over ten shows with no show like the last. Country music lovers will enjoy the Country Throwdown with Human Country on August 16th. If rap is more your style, the highlight of the month will be Bryce Vine on August 1st or local artist Shy Glizzy on August 3rd. For those 90s kids out there, August 2nd is bringing “What’s My Name Again?” to town with tributes to Blink 182, No Doubt, Green Day and Paramore. This is just a small selection of what’s coming to the stage next month, check out their homepage events calendar for more details and a full lineup.
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Shop Fresh, Seasonal Produce at the Takoma Park Farmers Market
There’s nothing better than supporting small, local businesses while getting fresh, sustainable food to enjoy each week. The Takoma Park Farmers Market has continually been voted one of the best farmers markets in the area, and for good reason. This year-round market offers varied vendors depending on the season, with tons of summer vendors now back for the season. Open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday, the market offers everything from meat, fruit, bread, cheese and even flowers for the table. There’s truly something for everyone!
The market also hosts events. Coming up on July 14th is the Garlic Festival held in partnership with the Takoma Horticulture Club, Washington Gardener and Sara Hayden. Then, on September 22nd mark your calendar for the Annual Takoma Park Pie Contest. Will you have what it takes to win?
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