Have you been cooped up in your house far too long? Looking forward to getting outdoors this spring and summer? Now is the perfect time to consider how to design the perfect outdoor living space for your home. Here are some tips to creating that perfect outdoor oasis.
1. Define your space
We talk about space definition in open floor plans and mention how you can use different flooring types to set boundaries in a shared space. Outdoors is no exception to this need for definition. Having a clear line where your outdoor living and the rest of the yard meet will help you better design it — and help you better enjoy it when it’s finished.
2. Consider privacy
Everyone has a different level of privacy available to them in their yard, and everyone has a different level of privacy that they prefer. How much privacy you need to add is something you should consider when designing your outdoor living space. Here are some ideas for adding privacy:
Shrubs
Trees
Fencing
Privacy screens
Pergola
Hanging greenery
Trellis
3. Light it up
You’ll want to create a space that allows for outdoor living at all times of day, including when there isn’t natural light available. Consider how you’ll light your outdoor space during the evening hours. If electricity isn’t available, solar-powered lighting is a great alternative, creating a pleasant ambience with little hassle. Of course, they will need access to enough sunlight during the day to fully recharge, so keep that in mind when you’re planning.
4. Plan for weather
You’ll need to have a plan in place for weather of all types: rain, snow, wind, hail and even sunshine. That means any furniture or décor you put in your outdoor space should be able to withstand all elements. Using indoor furniture outdoors is probably not a good idea. And don’t assume that you’ll be home to batten down the hatches when bad weather is on the way; you never know what life will have, and it’ll give you more peace of mind to know everything is taken care of if you can’t be available right when a storm hits.
5. Reflect on activities
Finally, think about what exactly you want to do in your space. Outdoor living means something different to everyone. For some, it involves cooking and eating outside. Others want to play yard games and incorporate play areas. Some want an outdoor bar and a place to entertain guests. Whatever you want your space to do is up to you, but you need to consider exactly what that is before you design it. Whatever it is will be great because it will be yours.
The internet is full of DIY options for creating outdoor living areas. If DIY is not your jam, give us a call; we’re happy to help however we can.