Take your home outside

Several years ago, Michael and Lillie Axelrod decided they wanted to redo the outdoor space of their Sandy Springs, Ga., home. They had the deck removed and added a screened-in porch. The next step was to call their go-to interior designer for help.

Susan E. Miles of Allegro Interiors came up with a plan to create a functional yet contemporary-styled outdoor space where the Axelrods could gather with family and friends.

Using a variety of materials (like wrought iron) to create a stylish, livable space, Miles selected porcelain tile for the floor, a stained concrete top for the dining table and dining chairs made of brushed lacquered aluminum. She also coordinated the Sunbrella fabrics for the sofas and chairs with the other accessories.

The Axelrods aren’t alone in wanting to extend their home to the great outdoors. The growing “leisure lifestyle” industry is now a $6.2 billion industry in the United States, up 5.4 percent from 10 years ago, according to the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association.

Outdoor spaces, such as decks, patios and porches, can add value to a home. But they take some planning, too.

from host.madison.com