In Guam, our homes extend beyond four walls. The balmy breezes, year-round sunshine, and lush surroundings beckon us outdoors, making our patios, lanais, and backyards crucial extensions of our living spaces.
These areas aren’t just for decoration; they’re where memories are made – from morning coffee with a gentle breeze to lively evening barbecues with family and friends.
However, over time, even the most beloved outdoor spaces can begin to feel a little tired from natural reasons (weather exposure, constant use, and changing seasons).
You don’t need a massive renovation to reclaim your outdoor sanctuary!
With a few simple, rewarding DIY updates, you can transform your patio or lanai into a true outdoor oasis that perfectly complements Guam’s relaxed lifestyle.
At Benson Guam, we’re here to provide you with the inspiration, high-quality materials, and essential tools to bring your outdoor vision to life.
Why Build an Outdoor Space in Guam
Whether you’re building a lanai, patio, or porch, Guam’s unique charm lies in its harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. An inviting outdoor space offers a myriad of benefits:
- Relaxation: A comfortable outdoor space becomes your personal retreat for unwinding after a long day.
- Entertainment Hub: It’s the ideal spot for gatherings, barbecues, and celebrations with loved ones.
- Extended Living Space: Effectively adding “rooms” to your home without the cost of a full extension.
- Connection to Nature: Enjoying Guam’s stunning natural beauty from the comfort of your own backyard.
Increased Home Value: A well-designed and maintained outdoor area significantly boosts your property’s appeal and value.
1. Comfortable Seating & Dining: The Heart of Your Outdoor Space
The foundation of any inviting outdoor area is comfortable and functional furniture. This is where you’ll spend your time relaxing, eating, and socializing.
- Refreshing Existing Furniture: If your current outdoor set is structurally sound but looking faded or worn, a DIY refresh can work wonders.
- Clean Thoroughly: First, give it a deep clean using appropriate outdoor furniture cleaner.
- Paint It: Apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant outdoor paint in a color that complements your home’s exterior or your desired theme. Benson Guam offers a variety of durable paints designed to withstand tropical conditions.
- Update Cushions: This is perhaps the easiest way to give old furniture a new lease on life. Swap out tired, faded cushions for vibrant, weather-resistant new ones. Look for fabrics that are designed to resist mildew and UV fading.
- Choosing New Furniture: If it’s time for an upgrade, select materials that are built to last in Guam’s climate. Wicker (synthetic resin), aluminum, and treated woods are popular choices for their durability and tropical aesthetic. Consider what kind of activities you’ll be doing most – dining sets for meals, lounge sets for relaxation, or versatile sectional pieces for flexibility.
Find it at Benson Guam: Browse our extensive collection of durable and stylish outdoor furniture sets designed for tropical living
2. Ambient Lighting
As the sun sets over Guam, well-chosen outdoor lighting transforms your space, adding safety, warmth, and magical ambiance.
- String Lights: These are incredibly popular for a reason! Easy to hang, string lights instantly add a festive, cozy, or romantic glow over a patio or lanai. Choose commercial-grade, weather-resistant options for longevity.
- Solar Pathway Lights: Simple to install (just stake them into the ground!), these provide subtle illumination for walkways, garden beds, and around the perimeter of your patio. They’re energy-efficient and require no wiring.
- Decorative Lanterns: Battery-operated or solar lanterns can be placed on tables, hung from hooks, or scattered around for soft, diffused light. They add a touch of charm and can be easily moved.
- Landscape Lighting: For a more permanent and dramatic effect, consider low-voltage landscape lighting to highlight trees, shrubs, or architectural features around your outdoor area. This often requires a bit more DIY effort but yields stunning results.
Find it at Benson Guam: Illuminate your outdoor haven with our wide selection of string lights, solar pathway lights, decorative lanterns, and professional-grade outdoor lighting fixtures
3. Greenery: Bring Nature In (and Out!)
Adding plants brings a natural, vibrant touch to any outdoor space, making it feel more alive and connected to Guam’s lush environment.
- Potted Plants: The easiest way to incorporate greenery. Choose a variety of sizes and textures. Potted plants are mobile, allowing you to rearrange your layout or bring them indoors during severe weather. Select tropical plants that thrive in Guam’s climate.
- Container Herb Gardens: Grow your favorite herbs in decorative pots near your outdoor cooking area for fresh flavors at your fingertips.
- Small Raised Garden Beds: If you have space, a compact raised garden bed for vegetables or flowers can be a rewarding DIY project, adding both beauty and utility.
- Vertical Gardens: For smaller lanais or patios, a vertical planter wall maximizes space and creates a stunning living art piece.
Find it at Benson Guam: Find a variety of durable planters, high-quality potting soil, and essential gardening tools like trowels, shears, and watering cans to help your plants flourish at Benson Guam Gardening Supply
Maintaining Your Guam Outdoor Space
As Guam is under quite a tropical climate, all you need to remember for the maintenance of your patios, or well, in your home in general are 3 things:
- Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean outdoor furniture and surfaces to prevent mold and mildew buildup (a good pressure wash, as discussed in our other article, helps!).
- Protect from Elements: If severe weather is expected, secure or store cushions and lighter decor. Consider covers for larger furniture pieces.
Plant Care: Water plants regularly, fertilize as needed, and prune to encourage healthy growth.
Let Benson Guam Be Your Go-To!
Transforming your patio or lanai into an inviting outdoor oasis is a rewarding DIY journey that enhances your daily life and the value of your Guam home.
With the right vision, tools, and materials, you can create a space that perfectly reflects your style and provides endless opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
Benson Guam is your partner for this transformation. From stylish and durable outdoor furniture and enchanting lighting solutions to vibrant planters and essential gardening tools, we have everything you need to build your dream outdoor living space. Our knowledgeable team is always here to offer expert advice tailored to Guam’s unique environment.
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