When Pensacola-area resident Stephanie and her husband found out their daughter was moving back to the area, it was a cause for celebration – and an outdoor upgrade.
Their pool deck hosted countless pool parties and cookouts when their children were growing up. And now that both their son and daughter would be living in close proximity with their own families, “Nana” and “Pop Pop” were eager to entertain once again. But their four-person outdoor dining table and two folding chaises simply wouldn’t provide enough seating for their full brood of 10.
The first step was to sketch out lounging and entertaining areas around the pool deck.
Frontgate designer Ashley Ginter took that goal to heart. As part of Frontgate’s complimentary design services, she helped the newly retired couple create three defined yet cohesive spaces that are comfortable for parties of two to 10.
Function-focused furnishings
Most family gatherings revolve around meals (or at least snacks), yet the couple’s indoor dining room can’t accommodate everyone. So for Ginter – who provided personalized space planning and furnishing recommendations – the first priority was finding an outdoor table for big family dinners.
A teak dining table that expands to 9 feet accommodates Stephanie’s extended family.
“Our 11-piece Cassara Estate Dining Set was a great option, as it expands to seat 10 guests comfortably and allows for an umbrella to be added to the table for shade and comfort while dining,” Ginter says.
The pool deck transformed into hubs for conversation, dining and lounging.
Between the dining space and the detached garage, the Isola Sofa and Loveseat create a seating area for relaxing in the sun or watching the kids play in the pool. And at the opposite end of the pool deck, two Chaise Lounges provide a quieter spot for reading or napping beneath an umbrella.
For every recommendation, Ginter considered how the piece would truly function. For example, the slatted teak design of the dining chairs and the open weave of the Isola seating allow for quick drying following pool parties or afternoon rain showers. Ample end tables mean a grandchild always has a place to set a drink or treat, and the circular Pasadena Teak Coffee Table provides additional options, as two detachable wedges can function as individual tables.
A cohesive design
In addition to its functionality, each piece integrates seamlessly into the design scheme.
The teak furniture and classic blue and white palette, found in all three seating areas, visually connect the spaces while also complementing the home’s traditional style (and giving an appropriately nautical nod). The end tables, umbrellas and rugs ground each of the spaces, making them feel like an extension of the indoors.
“It truly feels like our indoor style now exists outside,” Stephanie says. “Before, this space got a ton of use but never felt as special as our living room inside.”
Now that the space has become a destination, all that’s needed for a meaningful night are a pool full of kids and Nana’s beloved lasagna.
“There are many memories waiting to be made here,” she says.
With decorative accents, the finished design is welcoming to all.
Learn more about the free assistance our Design Services team can provide on any project, indoors or outside.
