WAS [the newsletter] #43

Let Me Decorate Your (Backyard): THE BEFORE

Maren Loveland
September 13, 2024

#43

I’m Paige Wassel. WAS the Newsletter is your weekly dose of design inspiration, where backyards are the perfect places for sharing iced matcha with friends.

In this episode of Let Me Decorate Your Home, we’re taking you to the great outdoors—well….my friend Monica and Koda’s house.

THE BEFORE

There’s no question about it, Monica and Koda’s backyard is a STUNNER. It’s filled with a variety of plants, fruit trees, is multi-level, and has a pretty ridiculous view of the city.

That being said, the yard is filled with misc collected furniture and decor from over the years and has been put on the back-burner for a good refresh.

Having any sort of outdoor space in LA is amazing, but this yard is particularly unique because of how big it is. However, the issue with big outdoor spaces is that they can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially because they require more upkeep than, well, a bedroom or living room.

Here ia where I come in—well, and Kate…and Lindy. We created a design to turn her yard into 4 distinct areas: lounge, bonfire, dining, and deck. Each with their own function and style.

Here’s what was inspiring Kate and I in the initial phases of renovation: natural textures, subtle patterns, and furniture that blends in with, while still enhancing, the greenery. Oh, and color. Monica loves color.

INSPO: DINING SPACE

INSPO: DECK

INSPO: BONFIRE

THE PROCESS

When we first got to Monica’s place, it was a little overgrown and the furniture needed that REFRESH. So our first big task was clearing and re-staining the deck.

We then needed to source some new furniture. I know, wild right? We were lucky to get some items generously provided by our lovely sponsors, like this amazing outdoor sectional from Article. This weather-resistant piece was a perfect fit (literally and design-wise) on the porch. WE LOVE.

Check out Article and use this link for $50 off your next purchase of $100 or more.

We also scoured our beloved Facebook Marketplace…everyday…all day. We collected all our finds in a shared doc, texted on the reg, sending things back and forth and annoying the shit out of Monica for approvals.

PATIO CHAIRS AND TABLES

DINING CHAIR AND TABLE OPTIONS

BONFIRE CHAIRS AND SIDE TABLES

STORAGE OPTIONS

LOUNGE CHAIRS

RENDERINGS

After we sourced the furniture, we sketched out each space and used some of the furniture photos to mockup the layouts. Thank g for Kiley, our renderer, for taking these amateur sketches and turning them into real renderings.