A backyard oasis can extend your living space and give you a place to unwind from the demands of daily life. A well-planned sanctuary can not only improve the quality of your life but also add value to the price of your home.
Spending a little time planning can help you maximize your investment, enable your project to run smoothly and contribute to your long-term enjoyment. Here are 10 tips to help you.
1. Define Your Goals
List the different ways that you and your loved ones might use this space. Perhaps you’ll work remotely or relax and entertain, or your kids might hang out with friends. Mapping out your goals will help you plan your space and your budget.
2. Determine the Placement
Picking the right spot involves several factors. Try to take advantage of any territorial, forest or water views while reviewing the lay of the land. Walk your property and check for uneven areas, drainage issues or other problems.
3. Go With the Flow
Think about how people will move through your space and around any big items. If you plan to entertain, you might want the grilling area within easy access to your house so the chef doesn’t have to walk around guests. If you have young kids, gauge whether the play areas should be positioned away from the cooking area. Easy access to plants for watering and weeding may also be important.
4. Add a Structure
A backyard structure, such as a pergola, can transform your yard by defining space and providing shade. Do-it-yourselfers can build these projects with the help of modern kits, which provide durable wood and pergola support brackets to streamline the process.
5. Prepare the Area
It’s easier to plan a new space when you’re not holding on to items that no longer serve a purpose. Clear any debris and identify items you need to refurbish or store. Prune any overgrown plants or trees.
6. Look Into Lighting
Good lighting can extend your hours of enjoyment. If your spot doesn’t have electricity, check with local hardware stores to see if solar options work well in your region. Cast lighting downward to make footpaths safer and upward to showcase tall shrubs and trees.
7. Research Landscaping
Landscaping can provide beauty and a sense of separation. If you add a structure like a pergola, you’ll have new areas for shade-tolerant varietals as well as support for climbing plants. Explore colorful ornamental plants as well as flowers. Place fragrant plants near seating areas so you can enjoy their aroma. Talk with your local nursery about the best regional options across multiple seasons.
8. Create Focal Points
Introduce some whimsy or fun with a few items that match your taste and activities. A unique sculpture, a few lanterns, a game area for the kids or an unusual bench can make your space more inviting. You could even ponder a water feature, such as a small koi pond or birdbath.
9. Adapt to the Seasons
While you might be focused on the next warm season, don’t forget about the rest of the year. Consider a source of warmth like a chiminea or outdoor heater if needed for cooler months. Evaluate whether items need to be winterized or moved indoors for cold weather.
10. Plan Ahead
As your family grows, your needs might change. For example, when your children become teenagers they might want a conversation space of their own. Double-check your landscaping choices to make sure vegetation won’t outgrow your space.
Whether you’re planning a reading nook for lazy weekends, a lively place to entertain or a fun spot for children, your new backyard oasis can be a valuable addition. Taking time to make the right decisions can help you make the most of it for years to come.
