The Beauty of Bringing Interior Design to Outdoor Spaces
These Chicago-area clients wanted to redo their backyard, transforming it into an exclusive, resort-like setting that is comfortable and kid-friendly yet appealing to grownups, too. They tapped award-winning interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, owner and principal of Chicago-based Michelle’s Interiors, to reimagine their outdoor space — and the results are functional and beautiful.
“I spend time getting to know my clients — their wants, styles and preferences, and how their needs may evolve over time — and then develop a design plan for their space,” Michelle explained. “These clients wanted to ensure they could enjoy outdoor time with their grandkids now while they’re little and as they get older. I designed the space to evolve
with the family, adapting to their needs as the grandkids grow from toddlers to teenagers, and for people of all ages to enjoy.”
Michelle realized the client’s combination pool house/kitchen would be the backyard’s focal point, so she worked closely with the vendors to get every detail right. The homeowners asked her to review and revise the building’s blueprints, and Michelle made several recommendations to enhance its beauty and functionality. “I separated the bathroom area into different activity spaces so multiple people can use it at once, yet still have privacy,” Michelle explained.
The clients wanted to maximize the amount of time their family could enjoy their backyard. Here, Michelle added a 42-inch fire pit to bring warmth to chilly evenings. She also chose environmentally friendly, sustainable, and extremely comfortable teak lounge chairs, which invite the clients and their grandkids to linger a little longer and enjoy their time together. “It’s a great space to snuggle with the little ones,” said Michelle.
Michelle’s clients imagined an outdoor kitchen that would be as functional and beautiful as the gourmet kitchen inside their home. Mission accomplished! Michelle created a full outdoor kitchen featuring a bar area where the clients can grab a snack with their grandkids or invite the neighbors over to watch the big game. Michelle provided ample countertop space for prepping and enjoying meals, and the quartz counters ensure beauty, durability, and easy cleanup. “It’s a casually upscale space that welcomes family and friends,” Michelle concluded. To create your own custom backyard oasis, please contact Michelle and her team today!
