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It is unusual to meet couples that agree on all aspects of home design. Men and women often have very different visions for combining comfort and aesthetics.

An exception is the outdoor living space. While agreement in just one area may seem to be small consolation for those struggling to fix up their space, keep in mind that backyards are being redesigned as extensions of the home.

With autumn now in the Triad, it is that time of year to truly enjoy outdoor living spaces. Whether you are seeking quiet relaxation with family, or entertaining your friends, this is the best time of year to relish the perfect temperatures. Here are some tips to consider for making the most of your outdoor living area.

• Be practical: When planning your space, remember that the less maintenance required the better. We spend enough time cleaning inside. Our outdoor space should be ready to enjoy without all the work. Thankfully, this concept has been embraced by the casual living industry and it shows in the designs and materials they are using today.

All-weather fabrics are essential to low-maintenance enjoyment. These moisture and stain-resistant fabrics now come in all colors and styles and are available in all types of materials, from outdoor sheer fabrics to upholstery-weight chenille, making them ideal for outdoor living. If you have a screened porch, these fabrics are perfect because they combat mold and stains. Many people use these fabrics inside because they are now fabricated to be soft and comfortable.

• Go for comfort: Deep seating with comfy cushions like sofas and club chairs are the way to go. Outdoor sectionals offer flexible floor plans, enabling one to create multiple seating depending on the occasion. For example, one sectional sofa can be used as a sofa, love seat, sofa with chaise, or chairs depending on how you arrange them.

• Flexibility: Think big. This is a great space to entertain, dine during the week and have the kids do their homework. Feel free to mix up your dining and seating choices. You do not need to buy a matching set. Opt for benches, ottoman cubes or a comfortable arm chair around your dining table of choice. Try to select seating that can easily adapt and integrate with the rest of your seating for larger gatherings.

• Color: This is a great space to use accessories to add a burst of color and bring harvest shades into your décor.

Throw pillows are the easiest way to add a pop of color without a big investment, and most fine fabric lines have addressed outdoor living spaces and have attractive and practical options. Consider a blanket or throw when accenting a deep seating sofa.

Another great place to add color is at your table and bar area. Mix it up with your outdoor dinner ware. An amazing table-scape can make even a picnic table look impressive.

• Atmosphere: With shorter days, start enjoying the cooler evenings by candlelight. Large pillar candles or groups of votive candles are a simple, yet elegant, way to liven up a coffee, console or dining table.

• Use of nature: The most restful and relaxing spaces allow the natural surroundings to play a starring role. Plan your outdoor living space to make the most of your landscaping. If you have a lake view, make that a focal point of your seating area. Fill your decorative flower pots with seasonal foliage or blooming plants like mums and ornamental kale. An interesting planter can really make a design statement, so don’t overlook the small details.

Whether you are undertaking a major redesign of your porch/patio or are simply adding some new accessories to create a fresh look, be sure to deep-clean your outdoor area using a power washer. Include all windows and doors in your cleanup. A weekly leaf-blowing will keep the space inviting throughout the fall. If you are like me, you will find your “new” space much more inviting than the indoors and a welcome change after the sweltering summer.

Jessica Dauray is owner of Elements of Style Interiors, a full-service interior design firm with offices in Greensboro and Wilmington, and The Studio, a trade-focused fabric and furniture resource. Visit her Web sites at www.elementsofstyleinteriors.com or www.thestudioofgreensboro.com. Have questions? E-mail Jessica at jessicaofeos@bellsouth.net.