Outdoor Living Environments Lecture at the Ohio Design Centre

Outdoor living spaces are no longer formerly limited to special patio furniture groupings or wicker-clad screened porches only to be stored away or closed-up when Labor Day arrived.  Outdoor areas are now entirely different design scenarios, according to David Thorn, president of DTR Associates in Aurora.

Thorn, one of the country’s most inventive landscape architects, is the next expert appearing at the Ohio Design Centre’s First Friday design series, slated for June 8 at noon at 23533 Mercantile Road in Beachwood. His presentation will show that outdoor spaces being designed today function similarly to indoor environments – a concept that may be challenging for many Northern Ohio traditionalists to accept, but nevertheless a significant design trend here and throughout the country.

“When I stared my career most clients requested simple designs that they view more as art objects than living in and experiencing the space,” he says.  “Now they request outdoor rooms that function for very specific purposes, while helping to extend the use of their properties throughout all of the seasons.”

Thorn cites several space strategies showcasing this trend. “We are creating sophisticated outdoor areas that function as the main kitchen of the home for three seasons, the favorite living room without a roof and private areas for bathing and showering,” he says.  “The core living areas for the landscapes are seamlessly integrated so there is a blur between the interior and exterior environments.

“In each of these spaces,” he continues, “we are furnishing the living areas with materials that appear to be inside but are fabricated to hold up under the extreme elements without sacrificing design details.”

Thorn is creating one of these outdoor spaces in his own home, an entire outdoor courtyard that is accessed from his interior shower.  He designed the shower as a wall of glass looking out with a glass door leading to an enclosed courtyard comprised of an outdoor rain shower, soaking tub and small lounging area for private reading and meditation.  The soaking tub will also be used as a water feature when the tub is not used for bathing.

“As consumers are becoming more sophisticated due to exposure of the internet and design shows that spark ideas, we are finding that clients are continuing to request unusual and more detailed landscapes complete with furniture, fabrics, tapestries and outdoor objects that work in partnership for a unique and customized living space.”

Thorn also believes “green” is a vitally important landscape design trend consisting of drought tolerant plantings that conserve water, enhanced irrigation systems requiring less water and the reuse, repurposing and recycling of materials.  “As clients become more aware and feel personally responsible for their part in helping to preserve the planet, they are making sure that I make this a priority as I am developing plans for their properties.” 

The cost of this First Friday program in June is $10.  Reservations for “First Friday” programs are limited.   For registration and information, call the Ohio Design Centre at 216-831-1245 or visit www.ohiodesigncentre.com.