5 Great Ideas for Indoor/Outdoor Living

If summer weather has you craving a better connection to your outdoor living space, we’ve got the inspiration you seek from six projects that all take different but inspired approaches to indoor/outdoor living.

1. Turn the existing window into a big door

Existing footprints need not limit your options! A Brooklyn-based restoration and renovation company, Brownstone Boys, expanded possibilities by replacing two windows with a Folding Outswing door in a recent project. While a standard patio door could have fit, the Folding Outswing door was chosen for its ability to maximize the opening. All three panels fold neatly, eliminating barriers between the kitchen and terrace. Its single-track design allowed installation without altering surrounding wall thickness, making it a perfect fit for this space.

2. Connect your kitchen with outdoor space

Enjoy the convenience of serving drinks and snacks outdoors without the hassle of lugging everything into the sun. With a pass-through window, you can seamlessly connect your kitchen to your outdoor space, maximizing utility and offering a perfect solution for smaller areas. Interior Designer Jessica Davis opted for a two-panel, Folding Pass-Through Window to link her kitchenette with the patio and pool area, showcasing a space you'll adore.

3. Add more panels for a wide-angle view

Justina Blakeney's LA remodel cleverly maximizes views with a traditional sliding glass door featuring a third or even fourth panel. Combining Spanish Colonial Revival and Mid-Century Modernism, Blakeney selected an E-Series Gliding Patio Door with four ultra-thin framed panels. The soothing olive green color complements her home's historic Spanish elements like the stucco exterior and terracotta tile roof, while offering expansive views of the plant-filled courtyard. Curious to see more of her home update?

4. Take a series of French doors

For a bright and airy interior that honors your home's architectural style, consider opting for French-style hinged patio doors. They seamlessly integrate with traditional homes, enhancing natural light and improving indoor/outdoor flow. Blogger, designer, and author Will Taylor exemplified this approach in his own home, using five E-Series Hinged Patio Doors to connect various spaces like the living room and bedroom to an outdoor deck and pool area. This design choice not only creates a symmetrical and classic composition but also fosters a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. Curious for more details?

5. Create an indoor/outdoor primary suite

Transform your bedroom into the ultimate sanctuary by blending it with the tranquility of nature. HGTV host Laurie March achieved this in her LA home remodel by adding a second story with a new primary suite and attached balcony. Featuring a two-panel MultiGlide™ Door that seamlessly tucks into the wall when open, March doubled the size of her space and created a serene environment with a vacation-like ambiance. It's the perfect spot to wake up and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of her backyard domain.