Backyard Party Spaces

I don't know if there is anything more fun on a holiday weekend than to get together with family and friends and enjoy some time outside. We are set to do that this weekend so for your inspirational tidbit this week - I wanted to showcase some fun outdoor spaces for entertaining.

Love the doors here in this space.  This just looks like a place where you could settle down with some drinks and catch up.

(Image from Southern Living)

Sometimes you don't have to have a big space with lots of expensive hardscape to create a charming outdoor space.  All you need are candles and terracotta pots.  How cute and affordable is this? 

(Image from Southern Living)

Ok - so I love this space with the low benches and built in table. But here is my question - I know these magazines and professional photographers like to wet down the deck before they take pics. Do you think any one ever slips and busts it in the middle of the shoot? Because I am like two-year old on ice on a wet wood deck! Still the space is beautiful!

eclectic landscape design by san francisco landscape architect Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture

The pergola, the hanging lanterns, the simple furniture - there is nothing I don't like about this.

patio design by new york architect SchappacherWhite Ltd.

Somewhere... there is a Powerball ticket with my name on it. And when I find it - we will all go have a big party here.

tropical patio design by hawaii architect Dinmore & Cisco Architects, Inc.

I think this little patio is so sweet. And I love the pendant lights.

traditional patio design by boston landscape architect Warner Larson

Now this is cool - this house was built in Vancouver and the whole back of the house is designed to open up. I love it!

contemporary patio design by vancouver architect Portal Design Inc

This area is so simple. It is a plain concrete slab and a simple patio set but the accessories just make it so much more.

traditional patio design by dc metro interior designer huntley & co

Now this is just awesome. And perfect for a shade dwelling white girl like me!

mediterranean patio design by los angeles architect HartmanBaldwin Design/Build

Finally, this is my ALL TIME favorite outdoor photo. Everything about this photo is everything I want! That pergola is to die for and there is space for a dining area AND a sitting area. And that fireplace is just the final cherry on top.

traditional patio design by new york architect SchappacherWhite Ltd.

So what about you - what makes a perfect outdoor space? Are you doing cookouts and hangouts this weekend?  I hope you have a fantastic 4th!
 

Linking this up to the Inspired by Party with Melissa @ The Inspired Room!