Stylish Outdoor Rooms: Inspiration from a Waterfront Retreat

Designing Dreamy Outdoor Rooms

When summer rolls into Florida with its salty breezes and sun-soaked days, we Floridians know exactly where we want to be – outside, soaking it all in. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, sipping something fizzy under swaying palms, or catching the scent of jasmine on the breeze, the magic of those moments lies in one thing: well-designed outdoor rooms. At Lisa Gilmore Design, we believe the great outdoors deserves just as much love as the indoors – and we’ve crafted plenty of enchanting alfresco spaces to prove it, including this dreamy mid-century modern waterfront gem.

COASTAL OUTDOOR ROOMS- LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Waterfront Backyard Renovation Perfect for Outdoor Entertaining

This once-underutilized backyard got the ultimate glow-up – now reimagined as an entertainer’s dream! With lounging zones, dining nooks, and dreamy views for days, every inch of this outdoor space was thoughtfully optimized for soaking up sunshine, sipping cocktails, and hosting unforgettable gatherings under the palms.

FLORIDA OUTDOOR ROOMS - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Poolside Outdoor Seating with a View of the Bay

This dreamy outdoor spot was made for sun-soaked conversations and breezy bayfront lounging. With a view like this, every sip and story feels extra special. From the bold blue chairs to the inviting loungers, it’s the kind of spot that says, “stay awhile.”

SEAMLESS INDOOR-OUTDOOR SPACE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living Space with Poolside Access

This shot captures the magic of blending inside and out. With walls of glass that open to the pool and patio, it's like the house is saying, “Let’s live out here today.” Plush loungers, breezy palms, and a sparkling pool make it the perfect place to unwind, entertain, or just soak up the sunshine.

Stylish Outdoor Room for Alfresco Meals

Tucked under the palm trees and just steps from the pool, this dreamy dining spot is made for long, lazy lunches and sunset dinners. The terrazzo-inspired table and sculptural chairs strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined – proof that outdoor meals should always come with a side of style.

photo: Outdoor Dining Room

Lush Walkway Leading to the Outdoor Pool

A tropical welcome like no other, this lush side walkway leads you straight to poolside bliss. With smooth stepping stones, inky river rocks, and vibrant greenery hugging the path, it’s like your own little jungle runway – just follow the fronds and let the relaxation begin.

photo: Lush Walkway St Petersburg

Things to Think About When Planning an Outdoor Room

1. Purpose First, Pretty Later

Before you start dreaming of twinkle lights and tufted outdoor sofas, pause and ponder: What’s the point of this space? Is it your morning coffee retreat? A dinner party haven? A cozy reading nook? Once you know the “why,” the “what” (furniture, layout, mood) becomes delightfully easier to figure out.

2. Location, Location, Sunlight

Where does the sun hit, the breeze blow, and the neighbors peek? All these things matter. Do you want to bask in the golden hour or hide from the midday heat? Think about what views you want to frame (and what you wouldn’t mind hiding behind a trellis).

3. Zones and Flow

Even an outdoor room benefits from a little structure. Picture zones like locations in your backyard story: one for lounging, one for dining, one for spontaneous stargazing. And don’t forget flow! You want guests to wander, not weave through a maze of planters and side tables.

4. Materials That Weather the Weather

If you’ve lived in Florida for more than five minutes, you know Mother Nature has moods, so your furniture better be ready. Choose pieces that can laugh in the face of sun, rain, and storms. Teak, powder-coated metal, and outdoor fabrics are your best friends. Bonus points if they’re easy to clean!

FAQs: Creating Magical Outdoor Rooms

1. What is an outside room called?

It goes by many names – outdoor living room, garden room, patio paradise – but really, it’s your alfresco escape! Whether you’re hosting wine-soaked summer soirées or curling up with a good book and a breeze, it’s that magical spot where indoors meets out, and nature becomes part of your home’s story.

2. How much does an outdoor living room cost?

Ah, the age-old question: how much will it take to bring your backyard dreams to life? A charming little setup might start around $5,000, but if you're adding built-ins, lush seating, or fire features worthy of a romcom movie set, you could be looking at $20,000–$75,000+. The sky’s the limit – quite literally!

3. What should I think about when designing an outdoor room?

Start by dreaming – do you picture Sunday brunches with birdsong? Late-night laughter under twinkly lights? Then think practical: shade, seating, weather-hardy materials, and cozy touches like rugs and throw pillows. Blend function with flair, and voilà! You've got yourself an outdoor room that feels like a vacation – no passport required.

Designing an outdoor room isn’t just about furniture and fire pits—it’s about creating an experience. Whether it’s a tucked-away garden nook for morning tea or a sprawling patio built for sunset soirées, your outdoor space has the power to become your favorite "room" of the house. All it takes is a little planning, a dash of imagination, and just the right touch of glamour.

Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll be in touch to talk all things color palettes, cozy corners, and cabana dreams. For a steady stream of project reveals, expert tips, and a peek behind the design curtain, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter – you’ll be the first to know when magic strikes.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay-based interior design firm specializing in bold, luxurious spaces with personality and polish. We’re a full-service team of creatives who design and manage everything from cozy renovations to top-to-bottom new builds, guiding you from the first consult to the final reveal. We proudly serve homeowners in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park—and all across the globe where great design is needed.