The addition of outdoor living space is among the most popular home-improvement projects in recent years.
Even a small outdoor area can become an oasis if properly staged.
Unless your plans run toward elaborate (think outdoor sinks and cooking units), construction permits are not required to add to your ability to entertain or relax just out your own back (or front) door.
The choices available to create an outdoor room are many, and yours will be driven by your space, taste and needs.
From simple and inexpensive lawn chairs to portable fireplaces to ornate outdoor kitchen setups to heirloom Amish lawn furniture to outdoor carpeting to fountain water features, there are many ways to create relaxing 'found' space in your yard, patio, porch or even the roof of your home or garage.
The best outdoor living spaces seamlessly blend landscaping with furnishings and your home's design.
Consider your space and entertaining needs as you browse online and in home improvement publications for ideas.
Turn that time-consuming, seldom-used patch of grass into a natural sanctuary that you and your friends and family can enjoy.
Or carve a chunk out of a larger yard and create some wow factor for entertaining.
Even your old, seldom-used deck can get a new, stylish life with the simple addition of new accessories and seating.
Experts suggest that you define the outdoor room with plantings, landscaping features or even a roof - albeit a retractable awning or arbor for vines.
As you plan your new outdoor space, you'll want to consider the need to camouflage unattractive surrounding features - maybe the parking area, the spot you stash the garbage cans or a neighbor's ugly blue blow up pool.
Decide how your space best accommodates creation of an outdoor living area, and furnish to meet your lifestyle needs.