Winters can feel like an entire year at times. So, why don’t you spend a long Sunday morning (or weekday morning, I don’t judge) planning how to turn your yard into an outdoor oasis. Why? Because once the summer comes, you can enjoy the outdoors at a new level.
Okay, warm up some hot chocolate or coffee, cozy up with a blanket and some music in the background and…get reading. I have some good ol’ backyard landscaping ideas to inspire you and turn your backyard into a sunbaked treat. After you read, write down ideal spaces you’d like to update and organize a list of project in an order of importance. That way, you’ll know what you want to update first!
HAVE A PLAN FOR EYESORES
You know what they are (outdoor air conditioning units, utility meters, old buildings with weird landscaping). But, you’re in luck! This is a great opportunity for an oasis upgrade. It’s really simple. Add tall, bushy, hardy potted plants. The plants can be bright and attractive with a pop of color (turquoise or orange) to redirect all eyes from the eyesore. Add a cute little sitting area, if you’re able, and make it a small secret garden.
KEEP IT QUAINT WITH A FIRE PIT
Fire Pits are great additions to any space. They add an element of community and closeness and can be fun design features for the outdoors. Simple metal styles are easy to add and can work in any space. If you want a fire feature that is more stylish or area specific, custom is the way to go!
Quick Tip: Set up an adorable little trellis on the way to the pit and decorate it with twinkle lights!
PUT UP THE PERGOLA
Pergolas have been all the rage lately. They add shelter and privacy (so they’re entirely functional for the home). Also, they’re the prime accent for a unique space. An even better addition to a pergola is retractable Phantom Screens and louvered roofs. If you have a porch or deck that gets hot throughout the summer, adding a Sturxure Pergola gives a full 170° range of motion to provide a cool oasis, regardless of the sun’s position. The louvered slats are perfect to close in any space and make functional for all weather.
INCORPORATE A PLAY AREA IN YOUR DECK OR PATIO
If you have kids, this is a great option for you. An open concept deck with a flat space beside it (covered in turf) will be perfect for adding play additions for kids (sandbox, kiddie pool, etc.) When this spot needs to be used for entertainment, it can be easily flipped into a modern seating area. If you’re on a budget, adding an easy-function deck or patio will do the trick!
PLANT AN HERB WALL
This is a fun project, I promise! If you like to grill outside, it becomes especially convenient. Build a functional wooden wall space and attach pots (make sure this spot gets lots of sun). If you can place this close to your kitchen, even better.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO GO BRIGHT
Porcelain pavers, rainbow-colored ceramic pots, punchy throw-pillows, Japanese tree lilacs, clean-lines… all color stories to add a non-threatening oasis upgrade. If you’re not feeling that crazy about pops of color, look into neutral tones and pair it with blues and greens hues for a more naturally toned, cozy, outdoor oasis. Incorporate these hues with umbrellas, accent pillows, plants and throws.
ADD A LARGE OUTDOOR RUG
Yep, that’s it! This will do wonders for any outdoor space and you can personalize it as your own. Then, instead of painting/staining your deck when your style changes, you can simply buy a new rug! To keep the space even cozier add some rocking chairs and big benches covered with pillows.
ADD AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN
A charcoal grill and table will be all you need! A kitchen kit under a pergola also works wonders. If you want the space to be more elaborate and effortlessly functional, be sure to chat with a designer.
If you need more design tips, be sure to schedule an appointment with us today!
