It is time to pull out all the stops and turn your patio, backyard or even the small courtyard into a relaxing retreat that will allow you to bask in the glory of spring and summer. The fun should carry on till late fall when the chill of winter will take over once again. But that is a really long time away right now and we are all too busy in getting our homes geared up for some fun summer evenings. Yesterday, we took a look at hot trends that will define interiors in the months to come and today we take a look at a feature that promises to transform the outdoors forever – the swinging and soothing hammock!
Fabulous beach style patio with a hammock [Design: The Landmark Group / McNeill Photography]
While hammocks are no longer relegated to just the outdoors and there are some awesome ways in which you can invite them indoors as well, today we keep the focus firmly on open-air delights. From a simple deck to a stunning poolside nook, hammocks take up very little space and offer a whole lot of comfort. If you are still undecided on what works for you, then the 25 inspirations on display today should make your choices a lot easier.
Restful Waterside Retreats
Dense Amazon forests most likely played the backdrop for the first hammocks in the world and they sure were not designed for comfort and tranquil holiday time! It was to catch some shuteye while making sure that you do not fall prey to some dangerous forest creature. Of course, a hammock on your pool deck or ones overlooking the distant lake or ocean come with lot less danger and are far more luxurious. The waterfront is indeed the perfect spot for a hammock and it plays into our noting of a dreamy tropical getaway with swinging palm trees, sand, waves and the restful hammock.
![Rustic-getaway-perfect-for-a-lazy-summer-afternoon Rustic-getaway-perfect-for-a-lazy-summer-afternoon Rustic getaway perfect for a lazy summer afternoon [Design: Tobias Gabranski / Architecture & Design] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Rustic getaway perfect for a lazy summer afternoon](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Rustic-getaway-perfect-for-a-lazy-summer-afternoon.jpg)
Rustic getaway perfect for a lazy summer afternoon [Design: Tobias Gabranski / Architecture & Design]
![Dream-waterfront-retreat-offers-a-soothing-hangout Dream-waterfront-retreat-offers-a-soothing-hangout Dream waterfront retreat offers a soothing hangout [Design: Heather Garrett Design] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Dream waterfront retreat offers a soothing hangout](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Dream-waterfront-retreat-offers-a-soothing-hangout.jpg)
Dream waterfront retreat offers a soothing hangout [Design: Heather Garrett Design]

Lovely patio with a hammock that also doubles as a daybed!
If you do not own a home on the beach or next to a lovely lake or even a natural pond, then the swimming pool is the obvious next best choice. Two simple posts can help you in putting up that classic hammock and there are also plenty of standalone models that really do not need any additional support. So, do not fret over not having any trees in the garden while planning to put up a hammock!
![Freestanding-hammock-can-be-set-up-pretty-much-anywhere Freestanding-hammock-can-be-set-up-pretty-much-anywhere Don't have trees, not a problem! [Design: OBM International] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Freestanding hammock can be set up pretty much anywhere](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Freestanding-hammock-can-be-set-up-pretty-much-anywhere.jpg)
Don’t have trees, not a problem! [Design: OBM International]
![Go-tropical-in-sensational-style-this-summer Go-tropical-in-sensational-style-this-summer Go tropical in sensational style this summer! [Design: Hampton Pools] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Go tropical in sensational style this summer](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Go-tropical-in-sensational-style-this-summer.jpg)
Go tropical in sensational style this summer! [Design: Hampton Pools]
![Time-to-give-your-pool-deck-a-cozy-hammock-corner Time-to-give-your-pool-deck-a-cozy-hammock-corner Time to give your pool deck a cozy hammock corner [Design: Amanda Patton Garden Design & Planting] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Time to give your pool deck a cozy hammock corner](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Time-to-give-your-pool-deck-a-cozy-hammock-corner.jpg)
Time to give your pool deck a cozy hammock corner [Design: Amanda Patton Garden Design & Planting]
![Mediterranean-style-patio-drapes-you-in-luxury Mediterranean-style-patio-drapes-you-in-luxury Mediterranean style patio drapes you in luxury [Design: Constructora Malver] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Mediterranean style patio drapes you in luxury](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Mediterranean-style-patio-drapes-you-in-luxury.jpg)
Mediterranean style patio drapes you in luxury [Design: Constructora Malver]
![Perfect-way-to-relax-by-the-pool-this-summer Perfect-way-to-relax-by-the-pool-this-summer Perfect way to relax by the pool this summer [Design: Gib-San Pools] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Perfect way to relax by the pool this summer](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Perfect-way-to-relax-by-the-pool-this-summer.jpg)
Perfect way to relax by the pool this summer [Design: Gib-San Pools]
A Cloak of Green
Not all of us have same taste when it comes to a dream getaway and while some love a cool waterfront, others prefer the lap of nature with plenty of greenery. One of the advantages of hanging a hammock in garden filled with shrubs, bushes and tall plants is the natural cover that you get. Privacy is never an issue here and you also can put up the hammock in many different spots without worrying about adequate support. Contemporary hammocks design ensure that even the tiniest backyards can easily accommodate the hammock and remember that you will still have plenty of space to spare around thanks to this hanging recliner!
![Add-some-color-to-your-chic-hammock-hangout Add-some-color-to-your-chic-hammock-hangout Add some color to your chic hammock hangout [From: Louise Lakier Photography] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Add some color to your chic hammock hangout](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Add-some-color-to-your-chic-hammock-hangout.jpg)
Add some color to your chic hammock hangout [From: Louise Lakier Photography]
![Contemporary-take-on-the-classic-hammock Contemporary-take-on-the-classic-hammock Contemporary take on the classic hammock [Design: Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Contemporary take on the classic hammock](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Contemporary-take-on-the-classic-hammock.jpg)
Contemporary take on the classic hammock [Design: Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture]
![Hammock-in-the-trees-can-serve-you-all-year-long Hammock-in-the-trees-can-serve-you-all-year-long Hammock in the trees can serve you all year long! [Design: Smith & Vansant Architects] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Hammock in the trees can serve you all year long](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Hammock-in-the-trees-can-serve-you-all-year-long.jpg)
Hammock in the trees can serve you all year long! [Design: Smith & Vansant Architects]
Each hammock has its own unique requirements depending on size and material but experts suggest that the classic hammock requires a length of at least 12 feet and must be hung at 6 to 8 feet above the ground for optimum comfort. Again, this will vary depending on your choice of hammock and where you hand it, but always double check those support points and tree trunks and make sure that they can handle all that weight for sure.
![Gorgeous-outdoor-living-area-complete-with-fireplace-and-hammock Gorgeous-outdoor-living-area-complete-with-fireplace-and-hammock Gorgeous outdoor living area complete with fireplace and hammock [Design: Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Gorgeous outdoor living area complete with fireplace and hammock](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Gorgeous-outdoor-living-area-complete-with-fireplace-and-hammock.jpg)
Gorgeous outdoor living area complete with fireplace and hammock [Design: Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design]
![Natural-greenery-offers-ample-privacy-in-this-Austin-backyard Natural-greenery-offers-ample-privacy-in-this-Austin-backyard Natural greenery offers ample privacy in this Austin backyard [Design: B. Jane Gardens] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Natural greenery offers ample privacy in this Austin backyard](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Natural-greenery-offers-ample-privacy-in-this-Austin-backyard.jpg)
Natural greenery offers ample privacy in this Austin backyard [Design: B. Jane Gardens]
![Perfect-outdoor-escape-with-dining-area-and-a-cool-hammock-hangout Perfect-outdoor-escape-with-dining-area-and-a-cool-hammock-hangout Perfect outdoor escape with dining area and a cool hammock hangout [Design: Luci.D Interiors] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Perfect outdoor escape with dining area and a cool hammock hangout](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Perfect-outdoor-escape-with-dining-area-and-a-cool-hammock-hangout.jpg)
Perfect outdoor escape with dining area and a cool hammock hangout [Design: Luci.D Interiors]
![Tropical-style-landscape-with-pergola-and-hammock Tropical-style-landscape-with-pergola-and-hammock Tropical style landscape with pergola and hammock [Design: STB Landscape Architects] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Tropical style landscape with pergola and hammock](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Tropical-style-landscape-with-pergola-and-hammock.jpg)
Tropical style landscape with pergola and hammock [Design: STB Landscape Architects]
![A-relaxing-retreat-in-the-lush-green-backyard A-relaxing-retreat-in-the-lush-green-backyard A relaxing retreat in the lush green backyard [Design: EPT Design] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! A relaxing retreat in the lush green backyard](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/A-relaxing-retreat-in-the-lush-green-backyard.jpg)
A relaxing retreat in the lush green backyard [Design: EPT Design]
Deck it Out in Style!
A hammock on the covered deck or patio brings with it a whole array of unique advantages as well. Sure, the magic of the open night sky might be missing, but you can enjoy this addition even on a rainy day without any trouble. If you live in a region that has really hot summers, then a lovely pergola is another wonderful option and you can even turn the area into an outdoor living and dining zone when you are not swinging away in your new hammock.
![Braided-hammock-brings-tropical-flavor-to-the-beach-style-deck Braided-hammock-brings-tropical-flavor-to-the-beach-style-deck Braided hammock brings tropical flavor to the beach style deck [From: Cassie Daughtrey Realogics Sotheby's Realty] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Braided hammock brings tropical flavor to the beach style deck](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Braided-hammock-brings-tropical-flavor-to-the-beach-style-deck.jpg)
Braided hammock brings tropical flavor to the beach style deck [From: Cassie Daughtrey Realogics Sotheby’s Realty]
![A-hint-of-Americana-for-the-porch A-hint-of-Americana-for-the-porch A hint of Americana for the porch [Design: Amy Trowman] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! A hint of Americana for the porch](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/A-hint-of-Americana-for-the-porch.jpg)
A hint of Americana for the porch [Design: Amy Trowman]
![Relaxing-retreat-with-hammock-takes-up-little-space Relaxing-retreat-with-hammock-takes-up-little-space Relaxing retreat with hammock takes up little space [Design: Bates Masi Architects] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Relaxing retreat with hammock takes up little space](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Relaxing-retreat-with-hammock-takes-up-little-space.jpg)
Relaxing retreat with hammock takes up little space [Design: Bates Masi Architects]
Courtyards are also great places for the hammock as they let you use the structure of the home as support points, eliminating the hassle of installing new pillars for the hammock. The possibilities are indeed endless and you will definitely notice the slight bump up in your weekend downtime once you install that hammock and spend lazy evenings sipping away a martini or two!
![Beach-style-porch-with-hammock-overlooking-the-ocean Beach-style-porch-with-hammock-overlooking-the-ocean Beach style porch with hammock overlooking the ocean [Design: Springline Architects] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Beach style porch with hammock overlooking the ocean](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Beach-style-porch-with-hammock-overlooking-the-ocean.jpg)
Beach style porch with hammock overlooking the ocean [Design: Springline Architects]
![Beautiful-modern-deck-with-plenty-of-color-and-comfort Beautiful-modern-deck-with-plenty-of-color-and-comfort Beautiful modern deck with plenty of color and comfort [Photography: Sarah Natsumi Moore] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Beautiful modern deck with plenty of color and comfort](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Beautiful-modern-deck-with-plenty-of-color-and-comfort.jpg)
Beautiful modern deck with plenty of color and comfort [Photography: Sarah Natsumi Moore]
![Pergola-offers-ample-shade-for-hammock-hangout Pergola-offers-ample-shade-for-hammock-hangout Pergola offers ample shade for hammock hangout [Design: Beall's Nursery & Landscaping] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Pergola offers ample shade for hammock hangout](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Pergola-offers-ample-shade-for-hammock-hangout.jpg)
Pergola offers ample shade for hammock hangout [Design: Beall’s Nursery & Landscaping]
![Sensational-hammock-a-Jacuzzi-and-a-view-to-match-What-more-could-you-ask-for Sensational-hammock-a-Jacuzzi-and-a-view-to-match-What-more-could-you-ask-for Sensational hammock, a Jacuzzi and a view to match - What more could you ask for! [Design: Trinity Hammocks] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Sensational hammock a Jacuzzi and a view to match What more could you ask for](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Sensational-hammock-a-Jacuzzi-and-a-view-to-match-What-more-could-you-ask-for.jpg)
Sensational hammock, a Jacuzzi and a view to match – What more could you ask for! [Design: Trinity Hammocks]
![Courtyard-in-Tel-Aviv-home-transformed-into-a-cool-family-zone Courtyard-in-Tel-Aviv-home-transformed-into-a-cool-family-zone Courtyard in Tel Aviv home transformed into a cool family zone [Design: Itamar Landscape Design] Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock! Courtyard in Tel Aviv home transformed into a cool family zone](http://cdn.decoist.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Courtyard-in-Tel-Aviv-home-transformed-into-a-cool-family-zone.jpg)
Courtyard in Tel Aviv home transformed into a cool family zone [Design: Itamar Landscape Design]
You’re reading Summer Spirit: 25 Cool Outdoor Hangouts with a Hammock!, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.
Source:: http://www.decoist.com/2015-04-29/outdoor-hammock-retreats/