13 of the Dreamiest Outdoor Spaces for Lazy Weekend Afternoons

Adrienne BreauxHouse Tour Director
Adrienne BreauxHouse Tour Director
For more than 10 years, I've led Apartment Therapy's real home content, producing thousands of house tours from around the world. Currently, I live in my maximalist dream home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with my partner, a perfect dog, and a cute cat.
published May 21, 2016
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Man preparing food at outdoor table under pergola, with swan float in pool and surrounding greenery.
(Image credit: Monica Wang)

A warm-toned rooftop in Mexico City filled with cacti. A tucked away French Quarter courtyard escape. Expansive and cozy alfresco spots bursting with lush plant life. These are 13 of the dreamiest outdoor spaces I’ve seen recently. And if I could, I’d park myself in any one of these locales with a book, a cold drink and the intention of not moving all day.

Mexico City, Mexico

(Image credit: Nicole Crowder)
(Image credit: Nicole Crowder)

Layers of plants and a view to die for spotted in this Bohemian Hotel in the Heart of Mexico City.


Neuchâtel, Switzerland

(Image credit: Anik Polo)

Wood accents and nature views create a cozy outdoor spot in Isabelle’s Peaceful, Poetic Haven in Switzerland.


Cape Town City Bowl, South Africa

(Image credit: Lana Kenney)
(Image credit: Lana Kenney)

North Hollywood, California

(Image credit: Monica Wang)

Hanging greenery greets guests to this outdoor dining spot in Chris and Amber’s Old + New Renovated Home.


New Orleans, Louisiana

(Image credit: Paul Zansler)

This courtyard looks like the perfect hideaway, spotted in Kate & Todd’s Colorful French Quarter Escape.

(Image credit: Paul Zansler)

Victoria, Australia

(Image credit: Natalie Jeffcott)

Lush plants and a sense of humor make a fun combination in Susie’s Fun Australian Home.

(Image credit: Natalie Jeffcott)

Fes, Morocco

(Image credit: Fabienne Ayina)

A vibrant, textured walk leads to a cozy spot to grab a bite in Michel’s Vibrant Moroccan Home.


Los Angeles, California

(Image credit: Bethany Nauert)

The dog isn’t the only one who could have fun in the interesting yard of Eric & Patrick’s Design Playground.

(Image credit: Bethany Nauert)

Los Angeles, California

(Image credit: Marisa Vitale)

Who says dreamy outdoor spaces are confined to backyards and rooftops? This front porch is a colorful spot to enjoy a moment. Spotted in James & Carly’s Colorful West LA Home.


Melbourne, Australia

(Image credit: Leanne Bertram)

A shady and colorful spot in Camilla’s Colorful Bayside Rental in Melbourne beckons.


Los Angeles, California

(Image credit: Bridget Pizzo)

A small balcony has plenty of room for a lush outdoor retreat in Sasha’s Silver Lake Bohemian Bungalow.


Scarborough, Western Australia

(Image credit: Hayley Kessner)

A verdant outdoor area in Ascher and Dylan’s Modern (& Gorgeously Landscaped!) Australian Home creates another living room.

(Image credit: Hayley Kessner)

New Orleans, Louisiana

(Image credit: Jacqueline Marque)

This exciting outdoor space would be an amazing place to spend a day, spotted in Brian & Emily’s Art-Filled New Orleans Home.

(Image credit: Jacqueline Marque)