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Ottawa Citizen

Modern living: Create your own escape

After a harsh winter, you can't wait to create an outdoor escape this spring and embrace the continuing trend of making your outdoor space an extension of your indoor space. Article content Article content 'For many Canadians, the winters can feel everlasting. The moment a glimpse of warmer days come along, Canadians are eagerly preparing their outdoor spaces to get the most of their time outside,​' says EJ Middelhoven, head of Communication & Design at IKEA Canada. Article content Article content 'We have been seeing more and more that Canadians are using their outdoor space as an extension of their indoor one. Whether it's having a large yard, a small balcony or a little stoop outside, these spaces serve as meaningful places to enjoy your morning coffee, read a book, spend time with family or just get a breath of fresh air,' he says. Article content 'Another seasonal need around this time are options for extra outdoor storage. For many small dwellings, the lack of a garage or storage unit is common. Many outdoor spaces are used for storing seasonal items such as car tires, seasonal clothing or gardening and lawn equipment,' says Middelhoven. 'Stylish outdoor storage that fits seamlessly into these spaces are important to Canadians and IKEA has lots of options to offer.' Article content Bouclair recently unveiled its outdoor collection. 'Bring a relaxed vibe to your outdoor space with our fresh collection, inspired by Mediterranean charm, natural textures and a tropical-casual feel for effortless style,' says Bouclair designer Bianka Jean. Article content Article content 'This year, it's all about making your outdoor space feel as comfy and stylish as your living room,' says HGTV personality Jo Alcorn, who was on hand for Bouclair's reveal. 'Outdoor furniture is stepping up its game, with a focus on materials that can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them, while still looking fab and feeling comfy.' Article content Natural materials are a 'big hit,' she reports. 'We're talking teak, rattan and bamboo. These materials don't just look great outdoors; they also add a cozy, warm vibe to your space. Take Bouclair's Sahara Collection for example. It's all about an organic, laid-back warmth inspired by desert and tropical vibes. The main materials are natural fibres and textured ceramics, with colours inspired by the desert.' Article content Alcorn describes Bouclair's Tunis Collection as a 'little piece of earthy Tunisia, with bold stripes and fresh geometric patterns. A mix of natural fibres and cotton gives it a light, delicate feel. The warm colours are inspired by natural wood, concrete and the blue aqua sky, creating a perfectly balanced look.'