10 Ideas to Inspire a Backyard Oasis
1. Dress Up Your Deck
Make your deck or patio a destination by creating different zones for different activities within one space. You can do this by building multiple levels or coverings like pergolas. Defining a purpose for each area adds value to the space so you keep going back to it.
2. Create a Picture-Perfect Patio
A deck or patio can be easily put in place, but often we get stuck not knowing how to use it. Decorating is harder than it looks, so find a style and an example to use for inspiration. There are tons of ideas out there, but find one that is easy and within budget to execute.
3. Add an Outdoor Kitchen
Extending your living space is a fun way to use outdoor space. You can do this by creating more seating of course, but you can also extend your kitchen space by adding a grill, smoker, a bar, or even a sink. There are tons of options and during the right season you may find yourself using your outdoor kitchen more.
4. Ensure Privacy
Your outdoor room can look inviting but if you don’t feel like you have privacy in it than you could easily miss out. There are simple solutions to creating a more private space even if you are very close to neighbors. Large plants can be strategically located to block out the view of neighboring homes. You can also use pergolas and other simple to setup structures to gain privacy quickly.
5. Create Shady Spots
You might really like the sun, but you have to have a place to escape it while still enjoying the outdoor fresh air. Set up some zones for shade like umbrellas or awnings. Many of these solutions are retractable and can give you the option to choose when you need it. Again if you don’t have the right options you may begin to ignore your outdoor space again.
6. Furnish for Comfort and Durabililty
You have more choices than ever when it comes to furnishing your outdoor rooms. Wrought iron and cast iron, wrought or cast aluminum, and traditional wood are classic options. New synthetic, weatherproof patio furniture and fabrics are also now available, offering the same style and comfort as anything you would have inside your home.
7. Define Spaces with Outdoor Structures
A gazebo adds another level of luxury to your outdoor oasis. Whether attached to the deck, set near a pool, or planted in the landscape, a gazebo is an outdoor room in its own right and offers a protected spot for dining, cooking, or relaxing.
8. Add a Hot Tub or Spa
For long, relaxing soaks at the end of the day, a hot tub or spa out on the deck is a must-have luxury. To determine the best location for the spa, consider privacy, access to the house, and whether you want the tub in sunshine or shade.
9. Plan Outdoor Lighting
To enjoy your backyard getaway after the sun sets, include outdoor lighting. At its most basic, this consists of porch lights that illuminate access to the house and provide ambient lighting.
10. Layer on the Amenities
Fountains, fireplaces, and fire pits enhance the beauty and usefulness of your outdoor rooms. Fountains add the soothing sound of trickling water and can serve as the focal point of an outdoor space.
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