The key to designing your outdoor space is to design it just like you would an interior space. This means working with scale, seating areas, landscaping to segment the space into 'rooms,' and of course you'll need the finishing touches. Finishing touches range from simple outdoor room accessories like patio chair cushions or umbrellas to extravagant gazebos and outdoor appliances. The right accessories for your space depend on your style and the purpose for the space. Let's examine a few of the more popular accessories and how you can use them in your back yard.

Umbrellas. Umbrellas aren't just for beach sand anymore. They're also great for creating shade and ambiance in your back yard. Patio umbrellas come in a variety of colors to add splash to any back yard. They also come in more subdued colors and materials like tan canvas with a wood frame to fit into a more natural atmosphere.

There are some things you will want to consider when choosing an umbrella. Patio umbrellas come in a wide variety of sizes. Make sure you buy an umbrella that is large enough to cover all the guests at your table. You don't have to match your umbrella color and fabric to your patio chair cushions but you certainly can. Umbrellas and cushions come in more colors and fabrics than the dresses on an Oscar night red carpet. You have your pick of anything!

It is also important to know that not all umbrellas close. An umbrella that doesn't close stands a high chance of being damaged in bad weather - and I cannot imagine a city or town that doesn't occasionally have inclement weather. If you live somewhere with perfect weather every single day - give me a call!

Gazebos. Gazebos are making a comeback. And like any other accessory they come in just about every imaginable size and purpose. You can get a gazebo kit designed to fit two and tuck it into a back yard corner or you can buy a gazebo kit that fits 20 and attaches to your deck or patio. Gazebos are not for the faint of heart, as they can cost a lot to be designed and built however you can also purchase gazebo kits.

The important thing to remember when adding a gazebo to your yard is to place it in the most ideal location, the location that makes it the most user friendly for you. For some that will mean having it set in the place that holds the best view of your garden or home, for others it will be the space that is the most private.

Patio chair cushions. Patio chair cushions are the easiest way to add class and comfort to your outdoor space. Patio chair cushions are available for just about every patio chair you can imagine. Whether you have a country porch swing or a collection of Adirondack chairs facing west to watch the setting sun, a patio chair cushion makes a difference in the comfort and beauty of your space. Patio chair cushions also come in many colors and fabrics. Just this morning I woke to find a neighbor's patio chair cushion in my driveway, so I'd also suggest you purchase cushions that have ties to keep them in place.

Outdoor appliances. Stoves, ovens, grills, and outdoor refrigerators can easily turn your backyard into a complete entertainment room designed for professional chefs. While luxury appliances are in high demand, some people prefer a basic grill for burgers and steaks. When looking for a grill or outdoor appliance make sure you have enough space to make them fit safely into your yard or deck. Most often this requires running gas lines to your home so plan on a little construction.

Planter boxes. On a smaller scale but no less dramatic, planter boxes can add a bit of color and natural life to your deck or patio. Arrange your planter boxes in any design or pattern. For example you can build a bench, place a colorful patio chair cushion on it and balance the color of the cushion with flowers in the adjoining planter boxes. If you live in an arid climate your planter boxes can be filled with succulents and cacti. Planter boxes can also be placed in strategic locations throughout your yard to create focal points. From small succulents to large ornamental trees - planter boxes can support a large variety of plant life.

As you can see there are large number of options to add polish and personality to your backyard space. Whatever your style, budget or backyard needs there are accessories for you and you don't have to break the bank to do it. Simple touches like quality patio chair cushions and a few well placed planter boxes can set the perfect note.