Written by: Emily Joswiak • June 17, 2020• Home

Ways to Create a Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Transition

Use Glass Walls and Doors

“Blurring the lines” between areas inside the house and those immediately outside is a strategy that makes the home look bigger and brings the best of the outside in. Sliding patio doors, doors that swing in either direction (into the house or toward the outside), and even pocket doors that disappear into the wall are good options. Some homes use walls that open entirely, completely eliminating the barrier between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Wrap Windows Around Corners

Take advantage of great views from your home by using corner windows. These enhance lovely views of water and woods by minimizing barriers to a broad vista. This feature works as well for garden and backyard views as well as splendid bay vistas.

Create Private Outdoor Spaces

One of the more daring ways to create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition is to extend a master bedroom with an outdoor bath or shower on an adjacent patio or deck. Enclose the space with courtyard-style walls. Use a glass roof or pergola that’s sheltered with greenery for privacy that still allows you to enjoy the beauty of trees and sky.

Build Enclosures for Pool and Patios

Enclosures extend living spaces outdoors. Pool enclosures enhance security and keep insects and wildlife out. Work with a professional to design an enclosure that extends the roof line of your home, providing direct access between the house and the enclosure. Ensure enough ventilation and sun protection to make both areas comfortable for most of the year.

Use Similar Flooring and Décor

Bring the indoors outside by using the same flooring material for the outdoor area as in the connecting indoor area. The connecting indoor area can be laid with materials such as garden stepping stones, concrete, tile, and weather-resistant wood. These materials tend to flow directly from one space to the other, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor transition. Keep floors on the same level, and eliminate thick thresholds or other tripping hazards. However, be sure to consider drainage so that, when the rain comes, and the doors are closed, water can’t come into the house.

Furnishings should complement the two environments, making them appear more like a single, seamless space. Use similar plants, seating, and tables to create an outdoor “room” that looks like part of the living space next to it.

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