Transform Your Backyard into a Cozy Outdoor Living Oasis: The Ultimate Guide
Imagine stepping into your backyard and experiencing the same level of comfort and relaxation you find within your home’s coziest rooms. No longer confined to four walls, the concept of outdoor living has evolved, allowing homeowners to extend their indoor sanctuaries into inviting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor retreats. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential design strategies to help you transform your outdoor spaces into a true extension of your home, perfect for unwinding, entertaining, and enjoying nature in ultimate comfort.
The Unparalleled Importance of Outdoor Comfort
Creating a cozy outdoor space transcends mere aesthetics; it’s about profoundly enhancing your quality of life. A thoughtfully designed outdoor area can serve as your personal sanctuary, a peaceful haven where you can de-stress, connect with nature, and host memorable gatherings, all without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. It provides an essential escape from daily routines, offering a fresh perspective and a boost to your mental and physical well-being. Think of it as an investment in your lifestyle, where every detail contributes to a richer, more enjoyable living experience right outside your door. Imagine a space where you can enjoy your morning coffee with the sunrise, read a book in the gentle breeze, or dine under the stars – all in perfect comfort. Companies like StruXure offer innovative solutions, such as the Pergola X, which can provide the ideal foundation for creating your dream backyard, blending functionality with sophisticated design.
Seamlessly Bridging Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
The secret to achieving a truly cohesive and comfortable outdoor living area lies in creating a seamless transition from your indoor environment. This continuity ensures your outdoor space feels like an organic extension of your home rather than a disconnected area. To achieve this, consider mirroring design elements from your interior, such as color palettes, material choices, and furniture styles. For instance, if your living room features cool grey tones and minimalist furniture, incorporate similar shades in your outdoor cushions and opt for sleek, modern outdoor furniture. Use consistent flooring materials, like extending a stone or tile patio that complements your indoor flooring. Even small details, like using similar decorative accents or plant types, can blur the lines between inside and out, making your entire property feel larger and more harmonious.
Crafting Your Cozy Outdoor Retreat: Fundamental Steps
Choosing the Ideal Location for Your Outdoor Haven
Before diving into furniture and decor, identifying the perfect spot for your outdoor sanctuary is crucial. This foundational step dictates many subsequent design choices. Consider critical factors like the path of the sun throughout the day – you’ll want a balance of sun and shade. Evaluate wind exposure, as a sheltered spot will enhance comfort during cooler evenings or breezy afternoons. Proximity to indoor areas, particularly the kitchen or living room, is also important for ease of access and entertainment. The ideal location might be a covered patio, a secluded corner of your garden, or a deck adjacent to your main living space, offering privacy, protection, and picturesque views.
Assessing Your Needs and Lifestyle Preferences
The functionality of your outdoor space should be tailored to your specific lifestyle. How do you envision using this area? Is it primarily a tranquil retreat for quiet contemplation, reading, or meditation? Or do you dream of an expansive dining area for family feasts and lively dinner parties? Perhaps it’s a dynamic entertainment zone complete with an outdoor kitchen and sound system, or a cozy lounge for evening cocktails. Your answers to these questions will be the compass guiding your design choices, from the layout and types of furniture to the specific amenities and features you include. A clear vision ensures every element serves a purpose and contributes to your ultimate comfort and enjoyment.
Thoughtful Furniture Selection for Outdoor Comfort
Indulgent, Plush Seating Options
Comfortable seating is undeniably the cornerstone of any truly cozy outdoor space. To evoke the feeling of an indoor living room, prioritize plush, deeply cushioned options that beckon you to relax and linger. Opt for outdoor sofas, sectional lounge chairs, and even daybeds featuring thick, resilient cushions upholstered in weather-resistant fabrics. The goal is to create seating that is not only inviting but also provides ample support and softness, transforming your patio or deck into an open-air living room where comfort reigns supreme. Don’t shy away from oversized pieces if your space allows, as they contribute significantly to an atmosphere of luxurious ease.
Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials
Outdoor furniture must withstand the rigors of the elements while maintaining its beauty and structural integrity. Selecting the right materials is paramount for longevity and ease of maintenance. Premium options include:
- Teak: Renowned for its natural beauty and extreme durability, teak is highly resistant to rot, pests, and weathering, aging gracefully to a silvery-grey patina.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-proof, and easy to maintain, aluminum offers a sleek, modern aesthetic and is often powder-coated for added protection and color.
- Synthetic Wicker: Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), synthetic wicker is incredibly durable, UV-resistant, and can mimic the look of natural wicker without the vulnerability to moisture.
- Stainless Steel: Offers exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, ideal for contemporary designs.
- Recycled Plastics: An eco-friendly choice, these materials are durable, low-maintenance, and available in various colors and styles.
These materials ensure your furniture remains charming and functional through sun, rain, and wind. 
Smart, Multi-Functional Furniture Solutions
Maximize the utility and comfort of your outdoor area by choosing furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes. A storage bench, for instance, provides comfortable extra seating while cleverly concealing cushions, throws, and other outdoor essentials, keeping them dry and protected when not in use. Coffee tables with hidden storage compartments are another excellent example. Convertible tables that can adjust from coffee table height to dining height, or modular seating arrangements that can be reconfigured for different activities, offer incredible versatility. These innovative pieces are particularly beneficial for smaller spaces, allowing you to adapt your outdoor setting for various activities, from intimate conversations to lively dining experiences, with minimal effort.
Embracing the Right Textile Choices
The Crucial Role of Weather-Resistant Textiles
Textiles are instrumental in adding warmth, texture, and a sense of coziness to any outdoor space, much like they do indoors. However, for outdoor applications, durability and resistance to the elements are non-negotiable. Weather-resistant fabrics, often made from solution-dyed acrylics or olefin, are specifically engineered to withstand fading from UV rays, resist mildew growth from moisture, and repel stains. These advanced materials ensure that your cushions, pillows, and throws retain their vibrant colors and plush feel season after season, making them a wise investment for long-term comfort and style.
Selecting Visually Appealing and Comfortable Fabrics
Beyond their practical properties, outdoor fabrics should be comfortable to the touch and align with your desired aesthetic. Seek out textiles that not only boast superior weather resistance but also mimic the luxurious feel and appearance of indoor fabrics. Imagine soft chenilles, textured weaves, or even outdoor-grade velvets that invite you to sink in and relax. Experiment with a variety of textures – chunky knits for throws, smooth cotton-like finishes for cushions, and intricate patterns for accent pillows – to add depth and visual interest. Don’t be afraid to incorporate bold colors or subtle patterns that complement your overall design scheme, creating a truly inviting outdoor lounge.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Textiles for Longevity
Proper maintenance is key to preserving the beauty and extending the lifespan of your outdoor textiles. Regularly brush off loose dirt and debris. For deeper cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which often involve spot cleaning with mild soap and water or machine washing removable covers. During periods of heavy rain, extreme heat, or when your outdoor space is not in use, it’s advisable to store cushions and throws in a dry, covered storage box or indoors. Using weatherproof furniture covers can also offer an additional layer of protection, ensuring your textiles remain pristine and ready for enjoyment whenever you are.
Innovative Outdoor Heating Solutions
Diverse Types of Outdoor Heaters
To truly extend the usability of your outdoor space well into cooler evenings and even colder seasons, effective heating solutions are indispensable. Various options cater to different needs and aesthetics:
- Propane or Natural Gas Heaters: These powerful heaters come in freestanding patio towers, wall-mounted units, or tabletop designs, offering substantial warmth.
- Electric Heaters: Often infrared, electric heaters provide immediate, directional heat and are a good choice for covered areas, as they produce no emissions.
- Infrared Heaters: These convert electricity directly into radiant heat, warming objects and people rather than the air, making them highly efficient and effective even in breezy conditions.
Consider the size of your space, available fuel sources, and desired heat output when making your selection.
The Timeless Appeal of Fire Pits and Fireplaces
Few things create a more inviting and magical ambiance than the flickering flames of a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace. These features naturally become the focal point of any gathering, providing both comforting warmth and a captivating visual element. Fire pits range from portable, wood-burning bowls to elaborate built-in gas models with decorative stone surrounds. Outdoor fireplaces can be grand masonry structures, offering a cozy hearth-like experience outdoors. Beyond their heating capabilities, they foster conversation and a sense of community, transforming chilly evenings into memorable occasions.
Sleek Heating Lamps and Efficient Radiant Heaters
For a more modern and discreet heating solution, especially in smaller or more contemporary spaces, consider heating lamps and radiant heaters. These units often feature advanced infrared technology, delivering immediate and efficient warmth directly to the people and surfaces below, without heating the surrounding air. They can be mounted on ceilings or walls, blend seamlessly with the architectural design, and offer precise temperature control. Radiant heaters are a smart choice for targeted warmth, ensuring comfort without the bulk or maintenance of traditional fire features.
Strategic Lighting for Enhanced Ambiance
Enchanting String Lights and Decorative Lanterns
Lighting is crucial in setting the mood and defining the atmosphere of your outdoor space. String lights, often called fairy lights or bistro lights, instantly infuse a magical, festive glow. Drape them across pergolas, fences, or trees to create a canopy of shimmering light. Complement these with an array of decorative lanterns – hung from hooks, placed on tables, or nestled among plants – to add pockets of warm, inviting illumination. These elements work together to transform your backyard into an enchanting wonderland as dusk settles.
Eco-Friendly Solar-Powered Lighting Solutions
For a sustainable and cost-effective lighting option, solar-powered lights are an excellent choice. They harness the sun’s energy during the day, automatically illuminating your space at night without the need for complex electrical wiring or consuming grid electricity. Solar lights come in various forms, including pathway markers, accent spotlights, decorative string lights, and even tabletop lanterns. They are perfect for illuminating garden paths, highlighting specific landscape features, or adding subtle ambient light, contributing to both your aesthetic and environmental goals.
Mastering Layered Lighting Techniques
To create a truly sophisticated and functional outdoor lighting scheme, employ a layered approach that combines different types of illumination:
- Ambient Lighting: This provides overall illumination, setting the general mood (e.g., string lights, soft overhead fixtures).
- Task Lighting: Essential for specific activities, such as reading or cooking (e.g., adjustable spot lights over a grill or reading nook).
- Accent Lighting: Used to highlight architectural features, plants, or artwork, adding depth and drama (e.g., uplights on trees, path lights, decorative wall sconces).
By integrating these layers, you can create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere that adapts to various activities and times of day.
Essential Shelter and Shade Options
Pergola X: A Modern and Dynamic Solution
The Pergola X by StruXure represents a cutting-edge approach to outdoor shelter, offering both shade and protection with unparalleled flexibility. Its innovative design features adjustable louvered roofs that can be precisely controlled, allowing you to instantly modulate sunlight, airflow, and even rainfall. This adaptability means you can enjoy full sun for tanning, partial shade for comfortable lounging, or complete closure for protection from sudden downpours. With smart home integration, customizable finishes, and robust construction, the Pergola X is a versatile and stylish addition that elevates any outdoor space, ensuring comfort and utility in all conditions.
Cabana X: Versatile and Stylish Outdoor Living
For those seeking a more contained yet equally stylish and versatile outdoor structure, the Cabana X offers a unique blend of elegance and functionality. These freestanding structures combine the best features of a pergola and a gazebo, providing a dedicated outdoor room that offers shelter from the elements while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your backyard. The Cabana X can be customized with privacy screens, integrated lighting, and heating, making it perfect for creating a secluded lounge area, an intimate dining nook, or a chic poolside retreat. Its modern design and robust construction ensure a luxurious and comfortable outdoor experience.
Flexible Retractable Awnings and Umbrellas
For more flexible and on-demand shade solutions, retractable awnings and large patio umbrellas are excellent choices. Retractable awnings, either manual or motorized, can be extended over patios or decks when needed and discreetly retracted when you desire full sun. They offer substantial protection from UV rays and light rain. Market and cantilever umbrellas provide portable and versatile shade for seating or dining areas. Choose models with sturdy bases and high-quality, UV-resistant fabric for durability. These options allow you to adapt your outdoor space to changing weather conditions, providing comfort and protection precisely when and where you need it.
Harmoniously Incorporating Nature
Lush Plants and Vibrant Greenery
Integrating plants and greenery is fundamental to enhancing the natural beauty and tranquility of your outdoor space. A thoughtful selection of flora can create a lush, inviting environment. Use a mix of potted plants in varying sizes and heights to add dimension, hanging baskets for vertical interest, and raised garden beds for a structured look. Consider plants that thrive in your climate and complement your home’s style. Herbs, fragrant flowers, and even small trees or shrubs can contribute to a sensory experience, providing beauty, scent, and a touch of wildness.
Soothing Water Features
The gentle sound of flowing water has an inherently calming and tranquil effect, making water features a superb addition to any outdoor oasis. From small, self-contained fountains that can be placed on a patio table to larger multi-tiered fountains, decorative ponds, or even a soothing waterfall integrated into your landscaping, these elements add a serene auditory dimension. The sound of water can also help mask unwanted urban noise, creating a more peaceful and private atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and meditation.
Timeless Natural Stone Elements
Incorporating natural stone elements adds a sense of permanence, texture, and organic beauty to your outdoor design. Use stone for pathways, patios, retaining walls, or as accent features. Materials like flagstone, slate, granite, or river rocks offer diverse colors and textures that blend seamlessly with the outdoor environment. Stone is not only incredibly durable and low-maintenance but also grounds the space, connecting it visually to the surrounding landscape and creating a rugged yet refined aesthetic that enhances overall comfort and appeal.
Modern Entertainment and Technology Integration
Immersive Outdoor Sound Systems
Elevate your outdoor gatherings and relaxation time with a high-quality outdoor sound system. Weatherproof speakers, designed to withstand temperature fluctuations and moisture, can be discreetly integrated into landscaping, mounted on walls, or placed on shelves. Whether you prefer ambient background music for dining or a robust sound for parties, a good sound system creates an immersive audio experience that makes your outdoor space truly come alive, adding another layer of comfort and enjoyment.
Robust Weatherproof Televisions
Imagine enjoying a movie night under the stars or catching the big game from the comfort of your patio. Weatherproof televisions are specifically engineered for outdoor use, boasting features like enhanced brightness for visibility in daylight, glare reduction, and robust casings to protect against extreme temperatures, rain, and dust. These specialized TVs can be a fantastic addition to your outdoor entertainment setup, transforming your backyard into an ultimate viewing lounge.
Crafting an Unforgettable Outdoor Theater
For the ultimate cinematic experience, consider creating a dedicated outdoor theater. This typically involves a high-definition projector, a pull-down or inflatable screen, and comfortable outdoor seating. Paired with your outdoor sound system, an outdoor theater provides a unique and memorable way to enjoy movies, sporting events, or video games with family and friends. It turns your backyard into a destination, offering unparalleled entertainment under the open sky.
The Joys of Dining Al Fresco
Selecting the Perfect Outdoor Dining Set
A durable and comfortable outdoor dining set is essential for enjoying meals outdoors. Look for tables and chairs made from weather-resistant materials such as aluminum, teak, synthetic wicker, or powder-coated steel. Consider the size of your space and the number of people you typically host. From intimate bistro sets to expansive farmhouse-style tables, there’s an option to suit every need, ensuring ample space and comfort for memorable al fresco dining experiences.
The Convenience of Grills and Outdoor Kitchens
An outdoor kitchen or a well-equipped grilling area can transform the experience of dining al fresco from a simple meal to a culinary adventure. Beyond a quality grill, consider incorporating features like countertops for food preparation, a sink for easy cleanup, a mini-refrigerator for beverages, and dedicated storage solutions for utensils and cooking supplies. An outdoor kitchen makes cooking and entertaining outdoors convenient, enjoyable, and an integral part of your outdoor living space.
Setting the Table: Thoughtful Decor Tips
Just as you would indoors, thoughtful decor can elevate your outdoor dining area. Use colorful and weather-resistant placemats, durable dishware, and stylish serving pieces to add a personal touch. Centerpieces crafted from natural elements like potted herbs, fresh flowers, or decorative lanterns create a welcoming ambiance. Don’t forget comfortable chair cushions and perhaps some outdoor throws for cooler evenings. These small details contribute significantly to an inviting and enjoyable dining atmosphere, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Embracing Year-Round Outdoor Enjoyment
Adapting to Seasonal Changes
The goal of a truly comfortable outdoor space is to make it usable throughout the year, adapting to the whims of the seasons. In the warmer months, deploy ceiling fans, misting systems, and ample shade structures to keep cool. As temperatures drop, utilize the heating solutions discussed earlier – fire pits, patio heaters, and radiant lamps – paired with cozy blankets and plush cushions to stay warm. A truly versatile space is one that can transition effortlessly from a summer sun trap to a winter warming station.
Effective Weatherproofing Strategies
To ensure the longevity and pristine condition of your outdoor investments, implement robust weatherproofing strategies. Invest in high-quality, tailored covers for all your outdoor furniture, especially during off-seasons or extended periods of inclement weather. Consider sealants for wooden decks and patios to protect against moisture damage. Regularly check for signs of wear and tear on all outdoor elements, addressing issues promptly to prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs.
Smart Storage Solutions for Outdoor Items
Keeping your outdoor space tidy and organized is key to its comfort and appeal. Integrate stylish storage solutions for cushions, blankets, garden tools, and other outdoor items. Weather-resistant deck boxes, custom-built storage benches, or integrated cabinetry can seamlessly blend with your outdoor decor while providing practical storage. This helps protect your items from the elements, extends their lifespan, and ensures your space remains clutter-free and inviting.
Infusing Personal Touches and Style
Adding Unique Personal Decor Items
Make your outdoor space truly your own by incorporating personal decor items that reflect your style and personality. This could include weather-resistant artwork, garden sculptures, wind chimes, or even outdoor-safe mirrors that reflect light and expand the sense of space. These curated pieces transform a generic outdoor area into a unique and intimate extension of your home, telling your story and creating an atmosphere that resonates with you.
Engaging in Inspiring DIY Projects and Customizations
For those with a creative flair, DIY projects offer an excellent opportunity to add custom features and truly personalize your outdoor space. Build your own unique planters from reclaimed wood, design a custom outdoor bar cart, or craft decorative lighting elements. These hands-on projects not only save money but also infuse your outdoor oasis with a distinct character and charm that off-the-shelf items simply cannot replicate, making the space feel deeply personal and cherished.
Cultivating a Unique and Inviting Atmosphere
The ultimate goal is to create an outdoor atmosphere that is uniquely yours – a place that feels welcoming, comfortable, and reflects your aesthetic preferences. This is achieved by thoughtfully combining various elements: a curated mix of colors and textures, a blend of different materials, and a strategic arrangement of furniture and decor. Whether you envision a bohemian retreat, a minimalist sanctuary, or a vibrant entertainment hub, every choice should contribute to a cohesive and inviting environment that you and your loved ones will adore.
Embracing Sustainability in Outdoor Design
Choosing Eco-Friendly Materials Wisely
Incorporate sustainability into your outdoor design by prioritizing eco-friendly materials. Opt for furniture and decor made from recycled plastics, sustainably sourced wood (like FSC-certified timber), bamboo, or natural fibers. Consider permeable paving options for patios and pathways to manage rainwater runoff naturally. These choices not only reduce your environmental footprint but often contribute to the unique aesthetic of your outdoor space, marrying beauty with responsibility.
Implementing Sustainable Practices
Beyond materials, adopt sustainable practices in your outdoor space management. Plant native species that require less water and maintenance and support local ecosystems. Install a rainwater harvesting system to collect water for irrigation, reducing reliance on municipal water. Explore composting options for garden waste, enriching your soil naturally. These practices contribute to a healthier environment and often result in a more self-sustaining and low-maintenance outdoor area.
Opting for Energy-Efficient Solutions
Minimize your energy consumption by choosing energy-efficient solutions for lighting and appliances. Utilize solar-powered lights wherever possible. For wired lighting, opt for LED fixtures, which consume significantly less energy and have a longer lifespan. If you have outdoor appliances, look for ENERGY STAR certified models. Smart home systems can also help manage energy usage by automating lighting and heating, ensuring they are only active when needed, reducing both your environmental impact and utility costs.
Crucial Safety Considerations for Your Outdoor Space
Ensuring Safe Installation Practices
Safety must always be a top priority in outdoor design. Ensure all furniture assembly, electrical installations, gas line connections for heaters or grills, and structural additions (like pergolas) are performed safely and professionally. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for product installation and consider hiring certified professionals for any complex electrical, plumbing, or structural work to guarantee compliance with local codes and ensure long-term safety.
Implementing Robust Fire Safety Measures
If your outdoor space includes a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, strict fire safety measures are paramount. Always position fire features on a non-combustible surface, away from flammable materials like dry grass, overhanging branches, or wooden structures. Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand/water nearby. Use a sturdy fire screen to contain sparks and never leave a fire unattended. Educate family and guests on safe fire practices to prevent accidents.
Regular Maintenance for Longevity and Security
Consistent, regular maintenance is key not only to the longevity of your outdoor elements but also to the ongoing safety of your space. Periodically inspect all furniture for loose bolts or damaged parts. Check electrical wiring for wear, and ensure gas lines are free of leaks. Clean and inspect textiles to prevent mildew build-up. Regular cleaning and upkeep will prevent potential hazards, ensure everything functions correctly, and keep your outdoor oasis safe and pristine for years to come.
Final Thoughts on Creating Your Outdoor Oasis
Creating a cozy, comfortable outdoor space is an art that harmoniously blends the familiar comforts of indoor living with the refreshing beauty of nature. By meticulously selecting plush furniture, durable textiles, and thoughtful accessories, and by integrating essential elements like efficient heating, strategic lighting, and reliable shelter, you can design an outdoor area that transcends expectations. This transformed space will serve as a versatile haven, perfect for year-round relaxation, vibrant entertainment, and cherished moments with loved ones. It’s an investment in your well-being, offering a constant invitation to step outside and breathe deeply. So, don’t delay – let this guide inspire you to begin planning your dream outdoor oasis today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Comfort
How can I make my outdoor space feel more like an indoor living room?
To truly mimic an indoor living room, focus on bringing interior comforts outdoors. Start with deeply cushioned, plush seating like sofas and sectionals. Incorporate weather-resistant textiles such as soft throws, decorative pillows, and outdoor rugs to add warmth and texture. Include functional elements like side tables and coffee tables for convenience, and use layered lighting (string lights, lanterns, ambient fixtures) to create a cozy, inviting glow. Personalize with outdoor-safe decor to complete the living room feel.
What are the best weather-resistant materials for outdoor furniture?
The most reliable weather-resistant materials for outdoor furniture include teak, aluminum, and synthetic wicker (HDPE). Teak is naturally durable and resistant to rot; aluminum is lightweight, rust-proof, and low-maintenance; and synthetic wicker is highly durable, UV-resistant, and can withstand various weather conditions without fading or deteriorating. Stainless steel is also an excellent option for modern designs, offering strength and corrosion resistance.
How do I maintain my outdoor textiles throughout the year?
Maintaining outdoor textiles involves regular cleaning and proper storage. Brush off dirt and debris frequently. For deeper cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, typically involving spot cleaning with mild soap and water or machine washing removable covers. During extreme weather, heavy rain, or the off-season, store cushions and throws in a dry, airtight storage box or indoors. Using weatherproof covers for your furniture can also provide additional protection, extending the lifespan and preserving the appearance of your textiles.
What are some eco-friendly options for outdoor design?
Eco-friendly outdoor design options include using furniture made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced wood (e.g., FSC-certified). Plant native, drought-tolerant species to reduce water consumption. Implement rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation and use compost for natural fertilization. Opt for energy-efficient LED lighting, and consider solar-powered lights for pathways and accents to minimize your carbon footprint and energy costs.
How can I ensure my outdoor space is safe and secure for my family and guests?
Ensuring safety involves several key practices. Always follow proper installation guidelines for furniture, heaters, and any structural elements, hiring professionals for complex electrical or gas work. Implement fire safety measures if you have a fire pit or fireplace, such as keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and maintaining safe distances from flammable materials. Regularly inspect all outdoor items for wear and tear, loose fastenings, or potential hazards, and promptly address any issues. Keep pathways clear and well-lit to prevent trips and falls.