Fabrics shown above: Waverly Green Fabric, Sundial blue, Black and white, Light blue lovely lattice.

If you have children you may be familiar with the experience of playing host to a herd of 12-year-olds excited to play video games, eat snacks and hang out in your family room. Or maybe your husband enjoys having his pals over to watch the game and eat chicken wings. How about the dog that loves to sleep on the couch during the day when everybody’s gone (and then looks very innocent when you come home).

You might want to tune into this design tip recently shared by Gossing Designer Julie Himmelsbach of JCH Designs: Look for outdoor fabrics to use on inside furniture in heavy-use areas.

Outdoor spaces are becoming more like indoor living areas with the creation of outdoor “rooms” with a cozier feel.  With this trend comes an increase in the availability and selection of outdoor-friendly fabrics that can withstand excessive wear and tear.

So why not bring some of that color and durability inside?

BBQ sauce on the couch – Just wipe it off. Sprite spilled on the automan – no problem. Dog smells galore – get a wet rag and just wipe it down.

Now we wouldn’t necessarily recommend this in your formal areas, but why not give it a try in the informal spaces, espeically the ones designated for the kids (and dogs)?