Ask a designer: Backyard design tips

As the weather warms and snow recedes, those lucky enough to possess a scrap of outdoor space in this urban center want to make the most of it. To help create the perfect outdoor living spaces, we checked in with a few of our very own interior designers to ask for their favorite backyard decorating tips.

While old-school décor and furnishings treated outdoor spaces very differently than indoor spaces, today's look is all about creating a real living space feel in the great outdoors. That means out with glass-topped metal tables and matchy-matchy chairs, and in with relaxed seating areas that sit a bit lower to the ground.

Interior Designer, Marybeth O'Haire, is a big fan of the outdoor living room look and names among her backyard must-haves a hammock in a shaded corner, poufs that do double duty as seating or tables with a blanket or rug anchoring the outdoor room. Potted succulents and string lights top off any space with the necessary ambiance.

Another Dixon Interior Designer, Rian Smith, agrees with the cozy vibe and, for a relaxed outdoor dinner party, recommends layering pillows, cushions and different types of seating on top of an outdoor rug. Add planter boxes of different sizes and hanging lanterns to help create height in the intimate setting. As far as furniture, Rian says, "All-weather wicker furniture is always a good option for outdoor environments, as they age with time and tend to hold up really well in our not-so-friendly weather conditions."

Danielle Garrison is a big fan of a mix-and-match approach that keeps things interesting, but never fussy. Unlike interior spaces where uniformity and symmetry are expected, natural outdoor spaces beg for variety. "Use a mix of lanterns and candles to add a welcoming and cozy feel. Add pops of color with flower pots in different colors, shapes and textures, and with throw pillows and cushions for outdoor furniture," she recommends.

New Yorkers are experts at making the most out of their small outdoor spaces that are sadly, only used a few months out of the year. With a little bit of planning you can make your outdoor space a functional one year-round. When it's not dedicated to rest and relaxation, your backyard is the perfect place for additional storage. Read our outdoor storage hacks blog for more tips and tricks.