Your backyard can be your own personalized retreat to the outdoors. Whether you are looking to create a family friendly place to spend time in or designing an outdoor space ideal for entertaining. The possibilities depend upon the terrain, your own creativity, and your do-it-yourself know-how and resources.
If you do not feel you have the time or creativity to do it yourself, you can always hire a landscape designer or architect to help your outdoor space become your private sanctuary. A skilled professional can guide you through the process of figuring out a style, deciding who will be using the yard, creating zones of activity, choosing materials and plants, and recommending builders and contractors for everything from swimming pools to outdoor structures to installing irrigation. Some ideas to consider when creating your outdoor oasis are listed below.
What are you working with?
Are you looking to create your space around a focal point like a majestic view? Perhaps you want to center your outdoor space around a fireplace or pool? Do you have a large space or a smaller yard?
Dining and lounge areas
Make your backyard a place that reflects your style and what you want to get out of it. When creating your outdoor living area, consider the space you are working with and make sure your furniture is proportional. You can keep it cozy with a bistro table and chairs or create an intimate space for one with a hammock or hanging chair for an outdoor reading nook. For a more spacious place to lounge, sectionals with tables and chairs make a great outdoor living room. Add a rug and some fun throw pillows to complete the outdoor living room look. A fire pit or fireplace with surrounding seating also makes for a natural gathering place and good times. Just make sure your furniture, cushions and covers are waterproof and made to withstand the natural elements of your environment.
o If you like to entertain you may also want to add an outdoor dining area or a summer kitchen and bar. Again, consider the size of your space when picking out the table and chairs for dining al-fresco. If you are going to incorporate a summer kitchen you may need to make sure you have gas and water plumbed to your outdoor space for any grills, ovens or refrigerator needs.
Shade
Another element to consider is shade. It is a good idea to have a mix of open and covered or enclosed areas in your
backyard. There are many options to choose from to provide a shady retreat. Sunshades are easy to place and move, plus they are cost effective. While arbors and pergolas are perfect way to create a great ambiance with the help of some additional growing vines. Another great option is to simply screen in all or part of your patio.
Privacy
Fencing and some well-placed perennial grasses provide plenty of privacy and also help absorb noise. Growing trailing vines on privacy fences can work to soften its look. You may also consider planting tall bamboo, which grows quickly or you can plant a lush privacy hedge. Another idea is putting in a retaining wall if your yard has steep levels or hills.
Gardens and irrigation
Gardens are always a beautiful way to add color and serenity to your outdoor space. You can have an elaborate garden with pathways to stroll through or keep it simple with potted plants you can easily move around. The possibilities are endless. When planning your garden, it is important to consider the soil, types of plants and irrigation. Take into account the climate you live in and make sure you have a good watering system that will maintain healthy plant life. The boarders for your garden beds are also a fun way to help sculpt the overall theme or style you are working towards.
Creating a backyard oasis transforms your outdoor space into a place that is all yours to escape and unwind. An outdoor oasis allows for a dedicated area that can make a difference in transforming your day from stressful to serene. By creating a backyard oasis, you can have the proper atmosphere to sit back and relax whether it be with your family, friends, or for a little dose of “me time”.
