Transforming Your Outdoor Living Space is Easier Than You Think
Your backyard should be a natural extension of your living space; on a beautiful day, being able to relax and spend time with loved ones outside can be a highlight of your summer and is a great place to create lasting memories. If your backyard is looking a little drab, however, it may be time for a makeover. Regardless of your budget, there are some upgrades to consider that can completely transform your backyard into a space you can enjoy year-round.
Outdoor Living Space
1. Add Ambience with a Fire Pit or Fireplace
The warmth of a fire not only makes it more comfortable to spend time outdoors on those chilly nights, but it creates a warm ambiance that brings you and your loved ones together. A fire pit is often a more economical solution for those on tighter budgets, but you may be surprised at how affordable an outdoor fireplace can be. And if you’re looking to liven up your fireplace or fire pit or rebuild entirely, natural stone is an ideal material option for both due to its durability and beauty.
Outdoor Fireplace
2. Promote Tranquility with a Water Feature
Who isn’t relaxed by the sound of a running stream or the steady rush of a fountain? Adding a simple water feature to your backyard can add peace and tranquility to your space, turning it into a retreat for you on hectic days. Depending on the layout of your yard and your budget, you might consider something as simple as a small water fountain or something as extravagant as a koi pond.
Water Feature
3. Show Off Your Green Thumb
A little greenery can go a long way when it comes to making your backyard space more gorgeous and inviting. Consider adding a flower bed or even setting up a vegetable garden. You don’t need a lot of space to make a major impact, especially when you opt for plants that boast bright and vibrant colors. If you have a deck, you can also hang planters from your deck rails to save on space.
You don’t need to have a lot of experience with gardening to transform your backyard with greenery, either. Consult with your local nursery to find plants and flowers that are low maintenance and ideal for your level of gardening experience.
Green Thumb
4. Upgrade or Install a Deck or Patio
A deck or patio space can take your outdoor living to the next level. If your home doesn’t already have a deck or patio, now is the time to look into having one installed. A simple poured concrete patio or pressure-treated lumber deck is relatively inexpensive and can yield a high return on investment should you choose to sell your home down the road. And if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, there are natural stone options like Jerusalem Grey™ Limestone that you can install. This will not only stay cool to the touch on hot summer days, but it doesn’t require a ton of maintenance either, so it’s easy for families with a busy lifestyle to keep up with.
If you already have a deck or patio, spruce it up with some new furniture and possibly even an outdoor rug. Have your patio pressure washed to refresh its appearance, or give your wood deck a fresh coat of paint or stain.
Patio
5. Focus on the Right Lighting
A little strategic lighting can beautify your backyard beyond belief! Soft lighting is ideal for entertaining spaces, such as around decks and pergolas. Some vintage-style pendant lights strung around deck rails can create a fun and relaxing atmosphere for your guests, and landscape lighting around flower or mulch beds can add visual appeal as well. Just make sure to include some brighter task lighting around outdoor work areas, such as near your barbecue grill or outdoor kitchen.
With a little planning and elbow grease, you can take your outdoor entertaining space to a whole new level. Be sure to keep these tips and ideas in mind as you begin planning out your backyard remodeling project. From there, you can enjoy spending more time outside all year long!
