We are thrilled to have a guest blog written by Anne Perri Cole. Annie is one half of Plant Lady Wannabe, crochet-maker of our much-loved adorable mini cacti, as well as a curator behind the beloved local Instagram account @housesofPittsburgh.
In this blog, Annie shares her special insight on our favorite Pittsburgh location during the summer: outside spaces at home.
Houses of Pittsburgh Local Stoops: Allegheny West and Observatory Hill
At Houses of Pittsburgh, we’re always on the lookout for beautiful, functional spaces that reflect the personality of the people who live in them. While we love architectural details and century-old woodwork inside the homes we tour, we’re equally inspired by what happens outside…especially in the cozy corners of porches, stoops, patios, and gardens.
Inspiration from Your Pittsburgh Neighbors
During this year’s house tours in Allegheny West and Observatory Hill, we saw some incredible ways Pittsburghers are making the most of their outdoor spaces. Whether you have a sliver of a front stoop or a tucked away backyard, there’s inspiration all around.
Here are some of our favorite tips:
- Think Small, Cozy, and Layered. You don’t need a huge yard to make an impact. In fact, some of our favorite spaces are just a few square feet of porch or patio, layered with personality. Potted plants in different sizes, clusters of candles in jars, string lights overhead. These little touches go a long way in creating a space that feels warm and welcoming.
2. Use What You Have. We love seeing people get creative with what they have. An old step ladder can become a plant stand. Salvaged bricks outline a garden bed. It feels very Pittsburgh to repurpose and reimagine like this.
3. Let Your Garden Reflect You and Your Space. Whether it’s a tidy row of potted herbs on a stoop or a patch of native wildflowers, your outdoor space should reflect your style and how you live. Even a small corner can become a favorite place for morning coffee or spot to watch lightning bugs as the sun sets.
4. Take the Tour, Then Take Notes. We go on house tours for exactly this reason — to soak up ideas, snap pictures and bring that inspiration home. Pittsburgh is full of hidden gems and its people are full of creativity.
Want more ideas and the next house tour dates? Follow along on Instagram at @housesofpittsburgh and check out our show Feeling Nebby. We love the Summer Stoop collection curated by love, Pittsburgh to fill our outdoor spaces.