Turn Me Inside-Out: Stunning Outdoor Rooms

I hope everyone is having a restful and fun-filled Memorial Day Weekend.  We've been laying low in the city and popping out for day trips.  I have to say, pulling out the flip flops and sunblock has really gotten me excited for summer!  


One of my all-time favorite summer fantasies is to have an "outdoor room" - a place where you can chat with friends over a glass of wine at the end of a warm summer day.  


What is the difference between an "outdoor room" and a simple outdoor sitting area?  I think it has to do with bringing inside elements to the outside - sometimes incorporating a rug or pillows that don't necessarily look "outdoors", and in some cases bringing out furniture and light fixtures that you wouldn't normally see out of the house.  


When done right, the whole effect is unexpected and utterly charming. 


Here are some dreamy photos to get you in the mood... which would you choose?


Terrace with a View:

{ PS: This is Tacoma, Washington!  Via AHBL Landscape Architecture }

The topiaries and wood furniture really complete this space:

 { Via Better Homes & Gardens }

Ocean View:

{ Elle Decor, Via Chic Geek }

This is a New Yorker's dream!

{ Via Architectural Digest } 

See below for an utterly romantic look.  Although your husband would have to haul all the furniture back inside when the guests have gone home!

 { Via Inspired Design }

Love this "Italian" vibe:

 { Via Better Homes & Gardens }

Another thoroughly romantic scene... look at that climbing rose and the Moroccan lantern!

{ Via BHG }

This is the "mountain house look".  The rock fireplace and the beams are just beautiful. I don't know how I feel about the TV set into the fireplace.  I suppose you'd at least lure the guys outside during important games:

 { Via Merchant Circle }

This is the ultimate poolside dinner setting:

 { Via Ashley Whittaker Design }

Such a cozy spot to chat after dinner.  The fireplace makes us East Coasters sweat just looking at it!  But it would be divine in the West where the evenings get cool...

 { Via Houzz }

Curtains really make this "room" even more special:

 { Via Design Chic }

This is the epitome of an outdoor room - it even has a mirror over the mantel.  It's Kim Kardashian's house, for you trivia lovers!:

 { Via Hooked on Houses }

This is my wine country dream:

 { Elle Decor, Via Coco Cozy }

Love the barn vibe.  The throws and pillows make this space say "outdoor room": 

{ Via I Love Farm Weddings }

Between the curtains, throw pillows and accessories, this is another ultimate "outdoor room".  On a beautiful lake:

{ Via My Home Ideas }

Do these pictures have you drooling yet?  I can't wait to one day have an outdoor space of my own!  But dreaming is also half the fun...