Do you know that an outdoor space a backyard, patio, deck or porch --can be transformed into a personal oasis by design? And you don't need an enormous budget to turn a "blah" outdoor space into one that makes you go "ah!"

You do, however, need to approach outdoor living the same as you would for an indoor design project -- do research and obtain consultation from a professional to develop a plan and execute it. The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) recommends that you answer several questions before undertaking any outdoor project:

1. How is your family going to use the space? What activities will it be used for: entertaining, grilling, sports, swimming, relaxing, gardening or a combination? What is the total number of people expected to use the space? Be realistic about how much space you have … or don't have. Don't plan on playing volleyball and safely grilling and dining in a small area. Are you a "t-shirt and flip flops" or "garden party" type of host? If you are the latter, don't install stone and ground cover in common areas to avoid tripping in high heels.

2. What kind of storage do you need for seat pads, athletic equipment, gardening tools, etc. when they are not in use? "Many people think of storage after an outdoor project is completed," says Robert Wright, FASID, ASID president and an interior designer based in San Diego. "Consideration of storage at the start will eliminate any headaches later. Consider creative 'camouflage' solutions -- landscaping, fencing and mobility of storage components."

3. Do your family or friends have any special needs? "Safety must be considered," says BJ Peterson, FASID, a Los Angeles-based interior designer. "You can create spaces that are safe for everyone and still aesthetically pleasing." Slippage is a major concern. Use slip-retardant flooring materials, like slate, especially around pool areas. If you have small children, be cautious of purchasing outdoor furniture with sharp edges. If you decide to use glass in the design of your outdoor oasis, make sure it is tempered. If you plan to entertain elderly visitors, make sure there are no steps from the inside to the outside of your home that could cause a fall or discomfort. Proper lighting also is important as it not only creates ambiance but enhances safety, Wright says. "Make sure you have adequate lighting over the task areas for cooking, working and eating."

4. What is the climate in your area? How much of the year do you want to use the space? "Different climates have different design considerations," Peterson says. "If you live in an area with typically high temperatures but still want to be outdoors, consider installing overhangs or perhaps a trellis with vines to create a natural canopy. At the very least, purchase a patio umbrella for shade." If you live in an area that gets chilly even during the summer months, consider installing heating lamps or an outdoor fireplace.

5. How is your privacy going to be assured in the space? "Landscaping is a great way to protect privacy," Peterson says. "Landscaping is 'softer' than a fence or a wall, but just as effective."

6. How much time and effort do you want to spend maintaining your outdoor oasis? For low-maintenance outdoor living, don't purchase furniture that needs to be constantly treated or plant intricate landscape designs. If you decide to invest in expensive furniture and foliage, realize that upkeep is necessary and take the time to do it. "Set up a maintenance cycle. Manicure plants or hire someone to do it for you, treat wood furniture, clean upholstery and store properly during the off-season," Wright says.

A qualified interior designer can help make the best choices to create your ideal oasis and develop a step-by-step plan that meets your needs, priorities and budget. "You can make the same mistakes outside as inside in terms of design," Peterson warns. "By simply consulting with an interior designer before starting a project, you can avoid costly mistakes."

And don't overlook that you want your outdoor space to complement your home's interior. "Many of the design considerations are the same," says David Michael Miller, ASID, a Phoenix-based interior designer. "The line between interior living space and exterior space is becoming blurred. Creating a 'seamless' transition is easier to do today than it was five years ago." Wright accomplishes this harmony for his clients by using consistent architectural details, flooring, color schemes and window treatments to create a flow from indoors to outdoors. Today's outdoor furnishings have more of an indoor look. Fabrics are more stylish, and the furniture is more sophisticated in terms of line and style. Consumers also have more choices for outdoor accessories and appliances -- from lamps to entertainment centers to fully equipped kitchens.