Hawaiian Outdoor Furniture
Don't forget about your outdoor spaces. Add some flair with some
Hawaiian tiki torches, a tiki bar or some great teak patio furniture.
Luau! Decorating with a Hawaiian Theme
By Debbie Rodgers
Hawaii is a first choice travel destination with millions of people - and for
good reason. Bring a little of that island feeling into your home, either indoors or in your outdoor living space.
You can apply this theme to an elegant dinner party, a fun and funky luau, or anything in between.
1. First, look at the space itself, including floors, walls, roof or
ceiling.
Texture
Think natural materials. Try bamboo matting on the floor. It's fairly
inexpensive, very durable and easy on the feet. For a roof or large patio umbrella, consider palm leaf
thatch.
Color
Choose rich vibrant colors inspired by island vegetation: hibiscus red, bird
of paradise orange or palm tree green. Use pineapple and mango colored accents. Bright navy or marine blue makes an
effective background.
2. Next, add the furniture. Again, natural materials are best. For example,
raffia table skirts and rattan or bamboo furniture are a fast way to create that island atmosphere. If you're using
indoor dining chairs or resin patio chairs and want an elegant feel, consider slipovers made of a fabric with a
Hawaiian print.
3. Now add lighting. Real flame, whether in candles or bamboo torches, will
give you the most authentic look.
4. Last but not least, accessorize.
Motifs
When you think of Hawaii, you probably imagine palm trees swaying in the
breeze, brightly colored exotic flowers, or maybe even hula dancers and surf boards. Each of these is an example of
a motif.
Choose one motif and run with it, or mix a couple. Motifs with a common theme
(such as Hawaii!) can be easily tied together by style or color.
Once you've picked a motif, you'll find lots of ideas for adding it to your
room. From wind socks and stepping stones to tablecloths and salt & pepper shakers, the list of thematic
accessories you can find is seemingly endless.
Don't overdo it though. Sometimes less is more, especially if you're
decorating for a full season of living in the theme.
Music
Music is a powerful mood setter. CDs of traditional or contemporary island
tunes can provide backdrop to conversation, or liven up the fun and games.
So pass around the leis and go Hawaiian in your outdoor space.
About The Author
Debbie Rodgers owns and operates Paradise Porch, and is dedicated to helping
people create outdoor living spaces that nurture and enrich them. Visit her on the web at www.paradiseporch.com and get a free report on “Eight easy ways to create privacy in your outdoor space”. Mail
to debbie@paradiseporch.com
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