Your Backyard Oasis: How to Put Together the Ideal Outdoor Room
There is more to a well-put-together backyard than just curb appeal. It can be where you put your feet up, have friends over, or simply get some time with the family. Done right, the outdoors should feel like a natural part of the house. You don’t need a sprawling lot or an open checkbook to make it happen; a bit of ingenuity and a plan will do.
Have a Plan in Place
It is easy to go out and put down some pavers or put in a flower bed on a whim, but it is better to step back first. What is this space for? Is it a nook for some quiet reading, a spot to fire up the grill and put on a meal, or somewhere for the kids to let off steam? Most of us are after a combination.
Put your priorities on paper. A design that is in line with how you actually live is worth more than one that is in vogue.
Carve Out Some Zones
The trick to a good layout is to think of the yard as you would the inside of your home, with different areas for different things. You might set aside:
A place to put in and have a chat
A table for when you are in the mood to eat outside
The kitchen side of things, with a grill
A spot for the little ones
A corner for some greenery
You don’t need a wall to make these zones distinct. A rug, some well-placed furniture, or a few plants will do the job and keep things from feeling haphazard.
Get the Right Furniture
Furniture has to be able to stand up to the elements, so look for solid metal, wood that has been treated, or wicker that won’t give in to the weather. But style is not everything. If the point is to unwind, then the sofa and chairs need to be something you can sink into for a while. A hammock or a good set of lounge chairs never goes amiss.
Some Shade is a Good Thing
An outdoor room should be pleasant come rain or shine. A little cover can make all the difference on a hot day or when the sun is at its peak.
Whether it is a pergola, a nice umbrella, or even a tree, having overhead protection is a must. It also gives your furniture a break and makes the whole area more of an invitation.
Let the Lighting Do the Work
Good lighting can completely alter the vibe of a backyard. Beyond making it safe to walk around after dark, it puts a warm tone on the evening.
String lights are hard to beat for a casual feel, while path lights and lanterns add to the decor. For those who want to save on the electric bill, solar is a no-fuss way to go. With the right setup, the yard can become a retreat when the sun goes down.
Don’t Skimp on the Greenery
Plants give a space its life. You don’t have to be a master gardener to see results; a couple of well-chosen pots can make a room feel fresh.
Mix in some flowers for a pop of color, shrubs to give it form, and maybe some herbs if you like to cook. And for a bit of serenity, there is nothing like the sound of a fountain or small pond.
Make it Your Own
Your backyard is a reflection of you. Some like the clean, modern lines of today, while others are drawn to a more rustic, homely feel with some wood and soft textures.
A piece of art, a fire pit, or some custom garden accents are the kind of things that put a personal stamp on the place.
Room for a Good Time
If you are the type to put on a party, build in some ways to make it easy. A fire pit is a natural place for people to congregate. Toss in an outdoor speaker for some background music, or set up a screen for a movie night. Even a simple game or two on the lawn can liven things up.
Don’t Overcomplicate Upkeep
The last thing anyone wants is for their own backyard to be a chore. Be realistic about how much time you have for maintenance.
Stick with hardy plants and furniture that doesn’t require constant tending. Keep a box on hand for the cushions and tools when they are not in use. A low-maintenance approach means you can focus on enjoying the space.
In the End
When you are done, you should have a place that is as practical as it is nice to be in. By being intentional with your choices and adding in what you like, you can make any size yard into a spot you and your guests will be drawn to.
