Commentary by Randy Sorrell
With virtually thousands of surfaces available, material selection for outdoor living spaces can be overwhelming. It also can be the most enjoyable portion of creating your incredible outdoor living space, too! There is a delicate balance between variety, color, shape and size that can become an enjoyable dance when embraced and properly directed by an experienced design professional.
VIBE AND TONY BENNETT
Let the surrounding environment and the hoped-for vibe be the predominant drivers in the selection process. Some designs lend themselves to more formal materials. Like the elegance that exudes Tony Bennett when on stage, these classic materials never go out of style and continue to thrive in modern portfolios. Consider that many historic buildings constructed hundreds of years ago out of limestone, travertine, red clay pavers, crushed stone paths and slate are still relevant and referred to as wonderful examples of timeless design. These same materials make the cover of the best design magazines, too.
FEATURED PROJECTS
Notice the carefully edited material variety in each of the photos? They marry well with each other and offer just enough deviation to excite and not confuse. Both are more loose and natural than the 90-year-old Tony Bennett — perhaps more like his popular counterpart, Lady Gaga, with striking contrast of boulders and natural stone counters against the popular tumbled concrete pavers. All fantastic selections in our suburban homes.
Consider your outdoor living space a personal song composed of patio materials, flowering shrubs/perennials and the soft textures of patio furniture, pillows and colorful rugs.
And experience the joy of luxury outdoor living.
