Make a Firepit
It doesn't get much easier than this, or more dramatic. Fill a low, round, firesafe concrete container with wood, and light it. We love the way fire's irresistible glow brings people closer as daylight fades.
Jeremy Samuelson[+]Hang Lanterns
Inexpensive paper globes bounce and flutter like balloons, but their look is more sophisticated. Tied to the rails with kicky scarves, the blue bubbles sneak more color into an already eye-catching corner.
Jeremy Samuelson[+]Make Simple Pillows
Cushions invite cuddling, especially after dark. Raid your scarf stash and pick the wildest for cameos on neutral pillows (simply tie around), or sew your own from the scarves you no longer wear.
Jeremy Samuelson[+]Add Candles
Even with a fire going, candles light up parties and add to the welcoming atmosphere. Tall glass hurricanes keep wind out, but for extra breezy nights, swap battery operated LED candles for the old-school kind.
Serve Great Drinks
In the spirit of summer, try a fresh take on the common cocktail. Two of our favorites, the Broadway Baby and the Kon-Tiki Mai-Tai, are made with zesty citrus juices in place of mundane mixers.
Jeremy Samuelson[+]Add Comfy Throw Blankets
From Maine to California, summer evenings can be crisp, so don't skimp on wraps to snuggle under. For stargazing in comfort, think casual, lightweight and well-worn.
Jeremy Samuelson[+]Roll Out a Rug
As with indoor rooms, rugs outside encourage camaraderie, drawing furniture into groups and offering feet an alternative to bare ground. Though less expected outdoors, patio carpets (in weatherwise polypropylene) send an especially friendly come-hither.
Buy It
- Cushy Lounge Super Sectional, similar item available, $976, pbteen.com
- Potted’s Wok Fire Pit, $349, and yellow outdoor rugs, similar items available, $49, pottedstore.com
- Scarf-wrapped pillows, similar custom-made items available, varying prices, sannapollanen.com or 323-964-5288
- World Market’s Capri Breeze Battery-Operated Lanterns, four for $15, worldmarket.com
- CB2’s Stemless Martini glasses, $3 each, Beaker Glass Pitcher, $6, and City Pitcher, $5, cb2.com
- Pier 1 Imports’ Etched Ring Glassware (tall), $7 each, and Cutout LED Candles, $14 each, pier1.com
- Tall glass hurricanes, $20 each, Pier 1 Imports; 22-inch-square orange Lacquer Tray, $225, jonathanadler.com
- Indian quilt throw, similar items available, $105-$190, Rolling Greens Hollywood, 323-934-4500
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