Enviable Outdoor Living

Indoor/ Outdoor Living

We are designing an enviable indoor/ outdoor living space in the South of France for a family with teenage boys who love to game and watch sports. The idea is to convert the cabana by the pool into a “man-cave” that can do double duty and entertain adults as well, since it sits right next to the pool. Any multi purpose space can present a design challenge with its various demands, but there are so many new great products and furniture lines on the market with attractive and durable fabrics to fit these needs, I think the issue will rather be too many choices.

Where to Look

I love to start my search and inspiration by looking at Archiproducts as they provide the most comprehensive information on available product lines, including connecting you with retailers by geographic location, showing available options and variations in configurations and fabrics, and even offering CAD drawings. They are a recognized leader in the design industry and have a strong presence at Milan Design week, with their banners at retailers whose brands they feature on their website.

So here is the space we are furnishing:

Layouts

And here are some ideas we are starting with:

Guidelines

Entertainment

The space needs to include lots of flexible seating, drinks tables, and an indoor/ outdoor entertainment set up. I’ve seen a few televisions on the market that double as a mirror when they are not being watched, which I like. Mirrors are such a great feature to include in a small space, as it reflects light and space, and can expand the room.

Flexibility

Another important feature is the comfort and flexibility of the seating, which will need to be able to stand up to wet swimsuits, food and drinks spills, but also be very comfortable for lounging when watching a game or playing video games. I am leaning towards the sofas that encompass a wider section or chaise, to really stretch out and get comfortable. I think this would be a hit with the teens, which, let’s just be honest and say they will probably monopolize this space. But, it could also make for an excellent place for an afternoon nap after a swim.

Food Friendly

Another requirement are tables to place drinks and food on. I think these need to be mobile, as the needs of the people using the space may change, depending on whether they are watching a game, playing games, or having a more formal aperitivo. Drinks tables and extra seating should be relatively easy to move around, and flexible in its purpose, perhaps being a footrest one day, and extra seating the next.

Temperature Control

Some other ideas to consider are temperature control. This structure currently doesn’t include exterior doors, so that is something that needs to be addressed, as a way to control heat/ coolness, as well as protect the items inside. Another consideration would be added a UV film or filter of some kind. Sound control could also pose a concern, if a game or viewers are being too loud or other pool loungers who want to relax.

One option might be something like this:

Who knows how this space will turn out, but it is good to get some ideas flowing and see how the “clients” feel about things! I’ll keep you posted. Hopefully you’ve found some morsels to chew on as you design your own outdoor living space.