Your backyard should be your special place to hang out and escape to for some alone time.
Turning your backyard into your dream getaway doesn’t have to mean a total remodel. There are many ways that you can create an area of calm and peace whatever the size of your yard.
Here are five features that can transform a simple yard into the outdoor living space you need this summer.
1. Splash Out on a Pool
The ultimate backyard oasis should definitely include your own pool. Custom pools can range in all sizes, shapes, and costs. Based on the size of your yard, planned use and your location, your swimming pool contractor can help design the perfect fit for your yard and your needs.
With lots of different options available, including solar, gas or electrical heating, it will allow you to extend your swimming season a little long. Nothing beats the feeling of having your own private swimming pool to unwind after a long day or have fun with the kids.
2. Build an Outdoor Kitchen
Take the cooking outside with an outdoor kitchen. Bring together the joys of sitting around the kitchen and the smells of BBQ by creating a great place to entertain.
Outdoor kitchens can be as simple as a grill with tables and chairs or can be fully outfitted with complete built-in appliances and seating with an elaborate cook station. A well-designed outdoor kitchen will allow you to enjoy cooking outside all year long.
3. Create Cozy Areas
Whether your backyard is large or small, it’s good to section it off to allow for the creation of private relaxation areas.
Trellises, fencing, and strategic landscaping can create small areas in which you can arrange comfortable seating, whether for dining or relaxation – perfect little oases in which to get away from it all or entertain family and friends.
Outdoor seating has come a long way from folding chairs and padded recliners. Create a cozy nook in a corner with built-in upholstered bench-style seating and consider adding a small roof. This will give you privacy from the neighbors in built-up areas and make an all-seasons space to enjoy.
You can even create an outdoor “room” effect using rugs, and clever lighting to create a great atmosphere in the evening. Using outdoor lighting or accent plants to brighten up a walkway is a great way to add a little flair to any space.
4. Build a Pergola
Nobody wants to sizzle in the blazing summer sun.
If your backyard is open and exposed, create private, shaded areas to relax through careful use of planting or by erecting privacy shades.
A pergola is an ideal way to create a shaded area in your garden. Usually an archway of framework topped by open latticing and climbing vines, pergolas allow the breeze to pass through while also giving you a private area to relax in.
Complemented with stylish outdoor furniture, they can improve your backyard oasis for your morning coffee, lazy afternoons or entertaining small groups of friends.
5. Add Features That Are Fun
If you love the gentle sound of water, then adding a water feature could be a great way to make your backyard more of an oasis.
Tastefully done, they can create a spa feel to your garden, giving you a place to breathe and reflect.
There’s nothing like enjoying the fresh, crisp air of a winter’s evening while huddling around a fire pit.
Great fun for kids wanting s’mores, they also create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere for couples or me-time after the kids have gone to bed.
The Takeaway: How to Create the Perfect Outdoor Living Space
All you need is a little creativity and a few tweaks and you can create a backyard oasis that you’ll be drawn to on winter nights, summer days, and lazy weekends.
Click here to see how we can help you create your perfect outdoor living space.
Greenview Designs is a design and build landscape/hardscape company, with a focus on luxury outdoor living spaces, poolscapes, and custom cook stations.