Creating A Liveable Backyard
The backyard holds the potential to be a mini-utopia or a deserted piece of land, depending on what we do with it. With a few upgrades that cost less than the price of a single vacation a barren space can easily become a seriously cool backyard. The first step is to generally clear everything we don’t want in the back - in order to visualize the future. Once the space is bare, we like to consider the following.
Open Up The View
If fortunate to have beautiful scenery in the backyard, take advantage of it. Cut down or move plants that block the view. We like replanting our favorite shrubs and plants to add privacy. Similar to moving furniture around, shifting a few plants can really change the potential and flow of an outdoor space.
Designate A Lounging Area
Depending on size, allocating an area for a hanging hammock or a well-positioned chaise lounge will create the coziness of an indoor space but with the joy of being outdoors. Don't forget to add lots of outdoor pillows for comfort - and to think ahead as to where to store them when the weather shifts.
Illuminate The Space
Create a warm and serene atmosphere by lighting the backyard with bright string lights. They offer a soft and relaxing glow, and allow outdoor hours to be extended well past sunset. Chinese lanterns and well lamps are also stylish approaches to providing an ambiance by brightening all the dark corners.
Consider a Fire Feature
Imagine sitting by the fire with loved ones, chatting, and watching the flames dance. Outdoor fire pits can be relaxing and they can a wonderful way to make social gatherings at home all the more fun. No matter the season it’s always time to cuddle up, roast marshmallows over the fire, and enjoy the cool feeling of the outside air.
Create a Zen Garden
A zen garden in the backyard is another way to create a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a wonderful way to reground after a tough day, and enjoy the natural elements. It’s also an ideal spot if you like to meditate. When choosing a plant to decorate a zen garden, choose plants that are good for relaxing, like bee balm (or bergamot). Lavender is another excellent choice because of its sweet smell.
Go For Hot Tub Or Sauna
Ever considered a mini sauna or a hot tub in the backyard? It’s a creative way to bring excitement to the outdoor space - and to create a reason for spending more time in it. Jumping into a hot tub or an outdoor sauna at the end of the day can have amazing benefits. It helps us unwind while performing wonders on our body. For example, spending time in a hot tub can relax tight muscles and promote cardiovascular health. Have one but haven't been in the hot tub for a while? Consider getting hot tub maintenance services and committing to maintaining it.
Make The Background Versatile
Define the space by creating different activity zones. Perhaps there’s the patio and lounge area on one side, which leaves room for a swimming pool in the middle. Or leave a wide open space for kids to roam wild, while maintaining a more manicured section for relaxation. Versatile spaces are often the most used, which means all the more hours outdoors with the family.
