1. Furnish for the weather. If your patio or deck are fully exposed to the elements, you may want to choose teak, which weathers well without maintenance. Powder-coating on aluminum furniture should be first-rate. The look of wicker is achieved with weather-resistant resin fibers, but the frame has to be powder-coated. If you can't move your furniture indoors during the winter – and most people can't – purchase covers.

2. Use an area rug. It can help define your space. Choose ones made to withstand sun and rain and to resist mildew. They range from simple woven rugs to florals, braided, and sculpted floor coverings.

3. Fabricate some privacy. Outdoor curtains or fabric dividers can define your space, too. And give you added privacy. Canopies, with drapes on the sides for privacy, are an inexpensive source of shade.

4. Match colors to surroundings. Bright colors or earth tones? Your choice of fabrics and colors depends on your landscaping. If it is primarily foliage, you can choose hot colors as a contrast. But if your patio is surrounded by a colorful perennial garden, you might want to choose earth tones or neutrals.

5. Create a focus. Your outdoor room should have a focal point, just as an indoor room does. It could be a fountain, a fire pit, a planter or a piece of outdoor art.