Americans are increasingly looking to outdoor spaces around their homes for a tranquil retreat. In research conducted by the American Home Furnishings Alliance, 42 percent of the homeowners think of their outdoor space as “an outdoor room.” When asked to list the most important attributes for that space, 86 percent said it should be “relaxing.” Sixty percent said it should be a place for family and friends to “hang out” and 57 percent wanted “a sanctuary.”
The most sought-after sanctuary may be the modular gazebo, now more affordable than ever. Top features include removable screens and elegant canopies, plus windows that can be opened and closed.
A more mobile option is a generously scaled sun lounger that offers a commodious retreat for one or an intimate oasis for two, when draped with privacy sheers or shaded with a canopy. When the cozy corner of a covered porch is not available for that nostalgic emblem of tranquility-the porch swing-there are portable porch swing stands to turn any spot in the garden into a place for peaceful repose.
A soothing palette of spa blues and earthy greens and visual...