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LUXURY INTERIOR DESIGNER TAMPA BAY FLORIDA, SARASOTA & CARIBBEAN
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INSPIRATION

Lisa Gilmore Design Interior Design trends, new projects & luxury design inspiration from your favorite Tampa Bay Interior Designer in Florida.



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5 Ways to Embrace Timeless Interior Design in the New Year
5 Ways to Embrace Timeless Interior Design in the New Year
Holiday Decorating for Every Home Style
Holiday Decorating for Every Home Style
A Bold Primary Suite Renovation in This St. Petersburg Home
A Bold Primary Suite Renovation in This St. Petersburg Home
Master Bath Design: 4 Jaw-Dropping Sanctuaries You Have to See
Master Bath Design: 4 Jaw-Dropping Sanctuaries You Have to See
Clearwater Condo Gets Glamorous Makeover
Clearwater Condo Gets Glamorous Makeover

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Recently @jenlime & @archdigestpro asked me the BEST THING I SAW IN 2025! 

Choosing one moment was difficult because I find inspiration everywhere from major events and product launches to a simple morning walk. However, the most inspiring exper
Two-tone rooms can make quite the impact especially when you drop in bold patterns and shapes. 🖤🤍

📸 @nativehousephotography
If we must work.. Let it be while surrounded by c💛l💙r, creativity, and of course a view ❤️

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Bold blue office style ideas with ocean view and colorful abstract art

OFFICE STYLE IDEAS - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

8 Office Style Ideas to Make Your Workday Glamorous

September 05, 2025 in INSPIRATION

Office Style Ideas to Inspire You

Whether you work from home full-time or just need a dedicated creative space, a stylish home office can make all the difference. Let these 8 office style ideas whisk you away from dull desks and beige walls, and inspire a workspace that’s as bold, beautiful, and brilliant as you are.

Unforgettable Office Style Ideas for Every Personality

From bold wallpaper that inspires to antique desks that whisper stories of the past, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to home office style. Some spaces lean glam, others go full-on minimalist, but all of them prove that your workspace can be both functional and fabulous. So grab your coffee, and let’s explore the possibilities!

Midcentury Modern Office Style Idea with Waterfront Views

mid-century modern office in Saint Petersburg Florida by Lisa Gilmore Design

MID-CENTURY MODERN OFFICE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

mid century home office style ideas St Petersburg Florida

This mid-century modern home got a fresh update that honors its iconic roots. The office’s vintage Eames-style lounger and desk chair were lovingly reupholstered right here in town, giving them a new lease on stylish life. And because the homeowners are passionate about supporting independent artists, every piece of art tells a story - whether it was part of their original collection, commissioned just for this space, or discovered on a serendipitous art hunt along the way.

photo: St Petersburg Fl Home Office

Home Office Mural Steals the Show

This home office feels like it belongs on a breezy Caribbean island with all the charm and none of the travel delays. The entire renovation was guided by a single goal: to craft a space that feels like a tropical escape, perfect for relaxing or gathering with loved ones. The homeowners are passionate about art, music, and travel, so weaving those loves into every corner was a must. 

photo: Home Office with Mural

Colorful Home Office with Mural Tampa Florida

In the office, a playful hand-painted mural by artist Chad Mize sets the tone - colorful, creative, and just a little bit cheeky. A custom glass door, designed and fabricated just for this space, adds an extra splash of personality. It's a one-of-a-kind retreat where inspiration comes easy and island daydreams are always welcome.

photo: Colorful Home Office Tampa Fl

Green Home Office Tampa Bay by Lisa Gilmore Design

Work in Your Own Jewel Box Office Style Idea

Tucked inside a 1925 bungalow in historic Old Northeast, this emerald-hued office is pure jewel-box magic. The whole home bursts with color, charm, and just the right amount of sass - perfect for someone who adores art, antiques, and playful style. 

photo: Home Office Tampa Bay - Lisa Gilmore Design

green custom built-ins home office by Lisa Gilmore Design Tampa

In this space, a vintage French chandelier sparkles overhead while an Hermès scarf, cheekily framed in the window, adds an unexpected wink. The custom built-in, painted a show-stopping shade of emerald, was designed by Lisa and crafted by local artisans. And don’t miss the ottoman with vintage legs or those fabulous drapes - designed by Lisa and inspired by none other than the queen of Hollywood Regency herself, Dorothy Draper. It's a petite powerhouse of personality.

photo: Custom Built-Ins Home Office

Downtown Condo Office Style Idea with a Bold Red Desk

DOWNTOWN CONDO OFFICE TAMPA LISA GILMORE DESIGN

DOWNTOWN CONDO OFFICE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN TAMPA

bold blue office with abstract art Tampa Florida

This bold downtown St. Pete condo was a true design adventure - from virtual consults to the final reveal, we didn’t meet the homeowners in person until after everything was installed and they made their big move to Florida! Having previously lived in sleek, modern spaces filled with whites, grays, and the occasional blue, they were ready to toss the rulebook and let us go wild - and we happily obliged. 

One of our favorite standout pieces? A radiant red custom desk from OTTRA, a Brooklyn-based studio we’ve admired for years. Lisa first met Sofia, one of the owners, at the Brooklyn Design Festival over five years ago, and they instantly clicked. They dreamed of collaborating, and this joyful, sculptural desk made that dream a (very red and fabulous) reality.

photo: Bold abstract office

Boss Lady Office design in South Tampa by Lisa Gilmore Design

South Tampa Office Style Idea with Boss Lady Flair

Looking for an office style idea with serious boss energy? This South Tampa home office delivers, complete with a bold pillow that declares its owner a powerhouse. The fashion-loving homeowner has a deep appreciation for art, which is woven into every detail from the statement pieces in her personal collection to the bespoke mineral plaster ceiling created by a local artisan. The richly layered rug comes from the Lisa Gilmore Design Rug Collection, and the custom drapery was designed by Lisa herself and crafted right here in Tampa Bay. It’s stylish, strong, and anything but ordinary.

photo: Boss Lady Home Office

arts and crfat office style Lisa Gilmore Design Tampa

Eclectic Office Style Idea: Arts & Crafts Meets Art Deco

In this whimsical home office, history meets haute design. The homeowner’s beloved antique Arts & Crafts desk anchors the space with its rich, carved details, while playful nods to Art Déco shine through in sharp geometrics and glitzy accents. We layered in bold pattern, graphic upholstery, and sculptural lighting for a look that feels collected, not themed. 

It’s a joyful collision of eras where Morris-inspired wallpaper blooms behind a boldly graphic chair, and every detail feels intentionally layered with a wink and a flourish. The result? A perfectly eclectic office style idea that proves mixing periods is always in fashion.

photo: Arts & Craft Office

Masculine Office Style Idea Inspired by Sherlock Holmes

SHERLOCK HOLMES OFFICE STYLE LISA GILMORE DESIGN SARASOTA

SHERLOCK HOLMES OFFICE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN TAMPA

Can’t you imagine Sherlock and Watson in this home office, discussing their latest mind-boggling case? This workspace exudes the warmth and charm of an old-school gentleman’s club, with rich wood tones, masculine textures, and a dose of Americana flair. 

From the classic campaign-style desk and red velvet chair to the presidential portrait and Kennedy poster, every detail hints at strong leadership and timeless taste. We dressed the windows in a tailored plaid and wrapped the walls in a burnished bronze tone that glows in the afternoon light. Add in leather, velvet, and a few nods to natural history (hello, feathered pheasant) and this space is every bit as refined as it is personal.

photo: Sherlock Holmes Office

Traditional Office Style Idea That Works Double Duty

TRADITIONAL OFFICE AND SITTING ROOM LISA GILMORE DESIGN MIAMI

TRADITIONAL OFFICE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN MIAMI

This room is proof that you really can have it all - style, function, and a splash of citrusy charm. What looks like a sophisticated sitting room at first glance is also a cleverly disguised dual home office, thanks to two custom built-in desks tucked on either side of the window. With vibrant floral drapery, playful pops of orange and green, and a chandelier dripping in pearls, this multitasking marvel is perfect for hosting guests by day and conquering your inbox by night. A space that works hard and plays pretty? Yes, please.

FAQs: Different Office Style Ideas for Your Focus Needs

1. How do I style my office?

Start by gathering a few office style ideas that match your personality and how you want to feel in your workspace - energized, calm, creative, or focused. From there, layer in color (on the walls or accessories), invest in lighting that flatters both your Zoom calls and your desk tasks, and mix in elements you love, like art, plants, or vintage treasures. The goal? To make your office feel less like a cubicle and more like your favorite room in the house.

2. How to design your office layout?

Designing your office layout starts with function first. Think about how you move through your day and what tools you use most often. Then, get inspired by office style ideas that balance beauty and practicality. Whether you're carving out a corner in your living room or have a dedicated room, consider traffic flow, natural light, and storage. Don’t forget: even a layout can have flair. A well-placed rug or bookshelf can define the space and make it feel intentional.

3. How to make an office look cozy?

Cozy doesn’t have to mean cluttered. Think warm textures, soft lighting, and personal touches that make you smile. Use cozy office style ideas like plush throws, layered rugs, framed photos, or a candle with your favorite scent. Choose a chair you actually want to sit in and bring in natural elements like wood finishes or greenery. A cozy office is one that feels lived-in, loved, and ready for big ideas.

Whether you're drawn to tropical murals, jewel-toned built-ins, or downtown drama, these office style ideas prove that your workspace can be as unique as you are. 

INSTAGRAM
Recently @jenlime & @archdigestpro asked me the BEST THING I SAW IN 2025! 

Choosing one moment was difficult because I find inspiration everywhere from major events and product launches to a simple morning walk. However, the most inspiring exper
Two-tone rooms can make quite the impact especially when you drop in bold patterns and shapes. 🖤🤍

📸 @nativehousephotography
If we must work.. Let it be while surrounded by c💛l💙r, creativity, and of course a view ❤️

 📸 @nativehousephotography

If you're dreaming of a space that sparks joy and fuels productivity, we’d love to help. Simply fill out our design inquiry form to get started. And for more fabulous office style ideas, design tips, and jaw-dropping transformations, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter. Let’s make your office the most inspiring room in the house.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a luxury interior design firm based in Tampa Bay, Florida, serving busy professionals who crave homes with personality and polish. Recognized as an Architectural Digest Leading Southwest Florida Designer and named a Top 25 Design Florida Firm by Design + Decor, our work has also been featured in Florida Design, Aspire Home, and Rue Magazine. We proudly design one-of-a-kind spaces for homeowners in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Hyde Park, South Tampa - and around the globe.

Tags: TAMPA, CLEARWATER BEACH, INTERIOR DESIGNER TAMPA, CUSTOM, CONDO, CLEARWATER, MIAMI, ST. PETERSBURG, BOLD, HOME OFFICE, OFFICE SPACE, OFFICE DESIGN, OFFICE INSPIRATION, OFFICE INTERIOR DESIGN
CLEARWATER CONDO LUXURY INTERIOR DESIGN

CLEARWATER CONDO - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Clearwater Condo Gets Glamorous Makeover

August 06, 2025 in DESIGN PROJECT

Reimagined Clearwater Condo: Before and After

If you suddenly found yourself single and totally free to design the home of your dreams… what would you do? For one fabulous client, it meant turning her downtown Clearwater condo into a bold, new beginning - a place that celebrated her next chapter with flair, function, and just the right amount of champagne sparkle.

Clearwater Condo Entertaining Areas

With two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a view that would make anyone swoon, this Clearwater condo had potential. It just needed a little (okay, a lot of) Lisa Gilmore Design magic. Her wish? A home that welcomed guests in style and felt more intimate and personal with every step deeper inside. We were up for the challenge.

Let’s take a tour, shall we?

CONDO BEFORE AND AFTER ENTRY LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before: Uninspired Condo Entry

Picture this: a dimly lit, narrow hallway that felt more “meh” than “magnifique.” Not exactly the grand entrance a Parisian-inspired space deserves.

photo: Before - Uninspired Entry

Clearwater condo interior design entry with sculptures

After: Sculptural, Eye-Catching Entry

Voila! The moment you open the door, you’re greeted by sculptural columns from artist Joel Escalona - like modern art standing guard. We opened up the surrounding walls to invite in light and energy, making this Clearwater condo feel open, elevated, and endlessly elegant.

photo: After - Sculptural Entry

before and after condo lounge

Before: Bland Lounge Begging for Personality

This front room had great bones (hello, tray ceiling), but its personality? Missing in action. The client wanted a space that encouraged conversation, not just collecting dust on bookshelves.

photo: Before - Bland Lounge

After: Vibe-Worthy Clearwater Lounge

We transformed it into a posh gathering spot that feels like a chic boutique hotel lounge. With luxe finishes and lighting that sets the mood, it’s the ultimate spot for intimate chats and pre-dinner cocktails.

Clearwater condo lounge before and after

CLEARWATER CONDO LOUNGE AFTER - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before and after condo dining area

Before: Small Dining Area Changes Function

Who needs a formal dining room when your dinner plans usually involve tapas and your favorite people? That’s why we thought this space could use a change of purpose.

photo: Before - Small Dining Area

Clearwater condo wine lounge Lisa Gilmore interior design

After: Wine Lounge

Enter the wine lounge: elegant bar stools, a sculptural table, and a jaw-dropping 18th-century Louis XV walnut secretaire as the pièce de résistance. The higher ceiling in this area adds drama - and yes, more room to swirl your glass with flair.

photo: After - Elegant Wine Lounge

CLEARWATER CONDO WINE LOUNGE WITH SCULPTURES

CLEARWATER CONDO WINE LOUNGE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before & After Kitchen Clearwater Condo

Before: Builder-Grade, Spiceless Kitchen

Dark cabinets, can lights, and builder-grade everything. The old kitchen was screaming for a glow-up.

photo: Before - Builder’s Kitchen

Clearwater condo kitchen design Lisa Gilmore interior design

After: Bon Appétit in Paris Kitchen

Cue the marble! We went full-on sculptural with the countertops to create a true statement piece. It’s neutral but never boring, thanks to bold artwork and shimmering gold accents. 

Plus, a clever surprise: the client’s old closet became a dreamy walk-in pantry, hidden behind a secret door (because who doesn’t want a secret door?).

photo: After - Paris Kitchen

CLEARWATER CONDO PARIS KITCHEN BLACK AND WHITE

CLEARWATER CONDO KITCHEN - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Before: Clearwater Condo Formal Living Room

The view? Stunning. The room? Flat. The vibe? Still searching.

photo: Before - Living Room

Clearwater condo living room cream collors

After: Water View Clearwater Florida Living Room

We added a sleek water vapor fireplace (it purifies the air too—bonus!), flanked by custom niches for art. The marble mantel, rich millwork, and antique French chandelier add instant romance. 

photo: After - Marble Fireplace Living Room

Clearwater condo living room with ocean view

Swivel chairs invite guests to enjoy the fireside conversations, or take in the bay view and the outdoor concerts below. It’s cozy, cultured, and so Clearwater.

photo: after - Living Room with View


FAQs: Find Your Clearwater Condo Paradise

1. Is it expensive to live in Clearwater?

Clearwater offers a wide range of housing options, from cozy condos to luxury waterfront estates. While some neighborhoods (especially those with water views) can be pricey, many areas offer a more affordable cost of living than other coastal cities. It all depends on your lifestyle, location, and taste for the finer things like outdoor entertaining and sunset views!

2. Does Clearwater Beach have condos on the beach?

Yes, and they’re dreamy! Clearwater Beach has a beautiful selection of beachfront condos - many with sweeping views of the Gulf, resort-style amenities, and walkable access to all the best restaurants, shops, and of course, the sugar-white sand. Whether you’re buying or renting, there’s a condo with your name on it.

3. Is Clearwater, Florida for old people?

Only if you think sunshine, art festivals, beach days, and rooftop cocktails are just for the retired crowd! Clearwater is home to people of all ages - young professionals, families, retirees, and seasonal residents alike. With a growing food scene, fun events, and beautiful design-forward living (hello, Clearwater condos!), it’s far from sleepy.

If this Clearwater condo makeover has you dreaming of your own “fresh start” home, we’d love to help. Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll be in touch faster than you can say “hidden pantry.”

INSTAGRAM
Recently @jenlime & @archdigestpro asked me the BEST THING I SAW IN 2025! 

Choosing one moment was difficult because I find inspiration everywhere from major events and product launches to a simple morning walk. However, the most inspiring exper
Two-tone rooms can make quite the impact especially when you drop in bold patterns and shapes. 🖤🤍

📸 @nativehousephotography
If we must work.. Let it be while surrounded by c💛l💙r, creativity, and of course a view ❤️

 📸 @nativehousephotography

For more dreamy transformations and behind-the-scenes peeks, follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter. We’ll bring the pretty and the practical right to your inbox.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a luxury interior design firm based in sunny Tampa Bay, Florida. From antique treasures to artisan-crafted details, we create one-of-a-kind spaces filled with liveable glamour. We proudly serve homeowners in Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Hyde Park, South Tampa, and anywhere wanderlust leads you.

Tags: TAMPA, CLEARWATER BEACH, INTERIOR DESIGNER TAMPA, BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER, UPSCALE INTERIOR DESIGN, CUSTOM, CONDO, MONOCHROMATIC, FEATURE, CLEARWATER

OUTDOOR FURNITURE FLORIDA - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

What No One Tells You About the Cost of Outdoor Furniture (Especially in a Condo!)

July 03, 2025 in INSPIRATION

Selecting Outdoor Furniture for Florida Condos

If you live in Florida, your outdoor space isn't just a nice-to-have. It's prime real estate for sunset lounging, cocktail sipping, and catching coastal breezes. At Lisa Gilmore Design, we think of patios, balconies, and terraces as extensions of your home (just with better lighting and fewer walls). But if you're dreaming of turning your condo balcony into a breezy retreat, there’s one thing most owners don’t see coming: the cost of outdoor furniture.

Designing Magical (and Durable) Outdoor Spaces

Let’s be honest, outdoor furniture has quite a job. It has to survive the Florida sun, sudden downpours, salty air, and sometimes even a hurricane or two. That means the materials need to be first class. Think teak, powder-coated metals, and UV-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella. These materials are gorgeous, but they don’t come cheap or without care and maintenance.

outdoor furniture ciment table rope chairs

Durability is everything. Nobody wants their cushions to fade into pastel ghosts or their table to rust after one summer. So yes, those chic chairs you saw online for $199 might be tempting, but they will probably only last one season.

And let’s not forget style. Outdoor furniture has come a long way from plastic lawn chairs and wobbly tables. We’re talking sculptural sofas, curved sectionals, performance upholstery in designer patterns, and even outdoor chandeliers. Function + fashion = investment.

photo: Al Fresco Dining Balcony

The Add-Ons That Surprise Every Condo Owner

Many of our clients are surprised by what outdoor spaces need to feel finished. It's going to cost more - especially if you don't want to settle for plain, boring white. Here are a few common curveballs:

Cushions & Fabrics: Outdoor cushions need to be moisture, mold, and UV-resistant. And that luxe designer fabric? It's going to cost more than indoor fabric.

Outdoor Rugs and Lighting: If you want to define your outdoor room and set the mood, you’ll need more than just furniture.

Shade: Think umbrellas, canopies, or even pergolas. Not glamorous until you’re sweating through your silk kaftan.

Delivery and Installation: High-rise condos mean scheduling elevators, navigating hallways, and white-glove delivery.

photo: Outdoor Seating Area

Outdoor Furniture for Condo Living

Condos come with their own set of unique considerations like size. You can’t throw a full sectional out there and hope for the best. Every piece has to be carefully measured and selected to balance function and flow. Custom-sized outdoor furniture often becomes the star of the show.

Then there is wind. Florida balconies can be breezy, so lightweight, big-box furniture won’t cut it. Heavy, wind-rated pieces are essential. (Yes, they’re pricier.) And, some condos make residents pull all furnishings inside, which is also a big consideration.

And don’t forget HOA rules. Some buildings restrict what you can place on your balcony, which may require custom solutions. We always check the fine print before placing any orders.

photo: Florida Condo Balcony

How Lisa Gilmore Design Handles Outdoor Design

We treat outdoor rooms just like indoor ones: with intention, artistry, and a healthy dose of liveable glamour. We’ll talk about budget, goals, and how you want to feel in the space. Then, we curate pieces that fit your vibe and hold up to the elements.

We educate our clients on the true investment of outdoor furniture from the start. No sticker shock here, just stylish, functional spaces ready for morning coffee or a twilight spritz.

photo: Florida Condo Outdoor Furniture

FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions About Outdoor Furniture

1. What is the best outdoor furniture that holds up to the weather?

When it comes to braving the elements, not all outdoor furniture is created equal. The best weather-resistant options are made from materials like teak (which ages oh-so gracefully but does require oiling once a year), powder-coated aluminum (sleek and rust-resistant), and all-weather wicker (practically impervious to rain and humidity). Cushions covered in solution-dyed acrylic fabrics, like Sunbrella, are also must-haves for withstanding sun, storms, and wine spills. If your furniture can handle Florida’s tropical mood swings, it can handle just about anything!

2. What is the best month to buy outdoor furniture?

If you love a good deal and a good lounge chair, mark your calendar for August and September. As summer starts winding down, retailers often slash prices to make room for fall inventory. That’s your moment to pounce! But if you want the widest selection (and don’t mind paying a bit more), spring is prime time for fresh finds. Just remember: great outdoor furniture is an investment in your backyard retreat.

3. What kind of patio furniture can stay out all year?

If you don’t want to play musical chairs with the weather forecast, go for patio furniture built to live outdoors full-time. Look for teak, eucalyptus, or other hardwoods that weather beautifully over time. Powder-coated aluminum and resin wicker are also stars of the all-season stage. Want cushions that won’t cry in a thunderstorm? Choose quick-dry foam and weatherproof fabrics. Bonus tip: furniture covers and regular care keep your pieces looking gorgeous, rain or shine!

Outdoor furniture may be an investment, but it’s one that pays off every time you step outside with a good book or a great friend. When thoughtfully planned, your balcony or patio becomes a magical oasis that expands the way you live in your home.

INSTAGRAM
Recently @jenlime & @archdigestpro asked me the BEST THING I SAW IN 2025! 

Choosing one moment was difficult because I find inspiration everywhere from major events and product launches to a simple morning walk. However, the most inspiring exper
Two-tone rooms can make quite the impact especially when you drop in bold patterns and shapes. 🖤🤍

📸 @nativehousephotography
If we must work.. Let it be while surrounded by c💛l💙r, creativity, and of course a view ❤️

 📸 @nativehousephotography

Dreaming up a fabulous space - indoors or out? Let’s chat! Fill out our design inquiry form, and we’ll be in touch. Want even more inspiration, peeks behind the curtain, and tips for adding liveable glamour to your home? Follow us on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter and let the design daydreams begin.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a luxury interior design firm based in sunny Tampa Bay, Florida. We specialize in creating one-of-a-kind spaces for busy professionals—with a flair for the bold, the beautiful, and the brilliantly unexpected. From Clearwater to St. Pete, Hyde Park to South Tampa, we turn everyday homes into showstopping sanctuaries filled with soul and style.

Tags: TAMPA, CLEARWATER BEACH, INTERIOR DESIGNER TAMPA, BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER, UPSCALE INTERIOR DESIGN, CUSTOM, CONDO, MONOCHROMATIC, approval, FEATURE
BEDROOM WITH PATIO DOORS POOL PATIO AND CHAIRS

SEAMLESS INDOOR-OUTDOOR LIVING - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

Stylish Outdoor Rooms: Inspiration from a Waterfront Retreat

May 28, 2025 in DESIGN PROJECT

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.

waterfront mid-century home with outdoor rooms

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.

WATERFRONT FLORIDA POOL LOUNGE CHAIRS AND DINING NOOK

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 LIVING SPACE FLORIDA

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.

modern outdoor dining room Tampa

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

Oceanfront Lush Walkway Tampa

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.

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Recently @jenlime & @archdigestpro asked me the BEST THING I SAW IN 2025! 

Choosing one moment was difficult because I find inspiration everywhere from major events and product launches to a simple morning walk. However, the most inspiring exper
Two-tone rooms can make quite the impact especially when you drop in bold patterns and shapes. 🖤🤍

📸 @nativehousephotography
If we must work.. Let it be while surrounded by c💛l💙r, creativity, and of course a view ❤️

 📸 @nativehousephotography

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.

Tags: TAMPA, CLEARWATER BEACH, INTERIOR DESIGNER TAMPA, BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER, UPSCALE INTERIOR DESIGN, CUSTOM, CONDO, MONOCHROMATIC, approval, FEATURE
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