A house with a backyard. Who doesn’t love the idea?
While idyllic in theory, those endless summer nights under the stars have a way of remaining just out of reach. Even for those homeowners who do, in fact, have a backyard to call their own.
Whether it be too much work or simply not knowing where to begin, too many backyards just don’t feel enough like home.
The good news is that with some strategic planning and careful material selection, it is fully possible to transform an outdoor area into a space that calls your name. Keep reading as we explore some of the best landscaping ideas to transform your backyard into an at-home oasis!
Construct an Enjoyable Deck Atmosphere
Few backyard projects can match a deck addition in terms of overall impact.
Cost effective. Convenient. Value-adding.
Despite these perks, too many decks sit underutilized. Instead of being the relaxing hangout for enjoying a drink at the end of a long day, they wind up an open-air storage area for all manner of household knickknacks.
Avoid this pitfall. Take steps to make the deck atmosphere more enjoyable.
Add a pergola to provide shade at all hours of the day. Source low maintenance bamboo decking for a stunning hardwood aspect without the need for exhaustive staining. Install low profile cable railings to keep the perimeter secure without encumbering backyard views.
Build Multi-Function Spaces
Modern outdoor spaces must be an extension of the home’s interior. They need to have that inviting touch of refinement that welcomes residents with open arms.
Accomplish this by creating zones that flow seamlessly between each other. Pavers. Furniture. Screen panels. Each helps the outdoor space achieve soft breaks between areas to give the outdoor space a more defined, finished feel reminiscent of an interior hangout.
Versatile accents, such as modular furniture and foldaway tables, can help accommodate large gatherings as necessary. When not in use, they can be tucked away to limit clutter on a day-to-day basis.
Lighting and shading are also crucial considerations that can set the mood for the space and make it usable around the clock.
Consider an Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens.
What once was “extra” is now “bougie.”
And that is perfectly delightful, whatever the contemporary jargon may be.
There are numerous reasons why outdoor cookspaces are on the wishlist of more and more homeowners.
Increased space for hosting. Easier to clean spills. Not triggering the smoke alarm every 5 minutes (ha!).
The key to outdoor kitchens is that they must be comprehensive. It shouldn’t feel like packing a picnic every time you want to cook outside. In order to make a self-contained outdoor kitchen, the materials must be durable and weather resistant.
Choose composite pavers for the floor that optimize drainage and will not crack during the freeze/thaw cycle. Use recycled glass countertops for kitchens to create a nonporous surface that will withstand the elements. Source stainless steel appliances to minimize the risk of staining and rusting when confronted with moisture.
Incorporate Privacy Plantings
Everyone loves being able to look out on the world from their backyard deck.
Few relish that idea in reverse, however.
Blend the best of both worlds with some well-chosen privacy plantings.
Layered hedges can block neighbors’ views without giving the impression that you are a prisoner in your own backyard. Staggering rows and mixing heights can create depth and softness that feels more like a retreat than a barrier. As these privacy plants grow, they will filter noise and offer soothing greenery to transform your backyard into a secluded escape.
Install Atmospheric Lighting
Atmospheric lighting begins with layering different lighting sources.
String lights. Lanterns. Path lights. Torches.
This will create warmth and depth throughout the yard.
Position lighting to highlight plants. Use them to accent architectural features. Install them around outdoor seating areas to guide the eye and shape the mood for the space.
By using diverse, strategically-placed illumination, the backyard can remain inviting long after sunset.
Leverage Water Features
Choose water features that fit your space.
Small bubbling fountains. Cascading waterfalls. Modern reflecting pools.
Whatever the choice, water features can have multiple benefits. A few of the most pertinent include:
- The sound of flowing water adds tranquility and helps improve mood and mental health.
- Water features mask neighborhood noise for an enhanced sense of privacy.
- Strategic placement near seating areas or garden paths helps water features become an aesthetic focal point that elevates the entire yard.
Remember to be mindful with your water consumption. Look at innovative rain chains for gutters to capture precipitation and help recycle it for decorative uses.
Create Your Very Own Outdoor Sanctuary
Homeowners love the idea of a backyard oasis. Unfortunately, too many outdoor spaces end up being woefully underutilized. From constructing a more enjoyable deck atmosphere to carefully choosing calming water features, consider any of the landscaping ideas listed above to turn your backyard into an exterior sanctuary. For more of the latest trends in home and lifestyle, explore the resources at Suzie the Foodie for ideas and inspiration!
