Many people desire a pleasant yard where you can spend your time relaxing or enjoy fun activities. Read a book in the shade, relax by the pool in summer, or have a barbeque with your friends. If you have kids, there is nothing better than a safe outdoor space for them to play around. From practical amenities to eye-pleasing decorations, there are many options to consider for implementation. With this in mind, this guide will help you go in the right direction when designing an ideal outdoor living space. If you are planning on rearranging your yard, now is the time to take some notes.
Things to consider when designing an ideal outdoor living space
Whenever you are considering a serious project like this, it’s important to carefully make plans. If you own a property, you are already familiar with its characteristics. And, you also have an opinion about what can be done and what can’t. On the other side, those who plan to relocate to a place with a yard should get some basic information first. And it’s not only about dimensions. You need to have realistic expectations about what is changeable. To assume what type of activities you wish it for. Not to mention to check what changes are allowed in that particular neighborhood. Last, but not least, to decide a style or a theme for a yard, if that’s what you intend. Gathering all the information in advance will help you calculate your budget more effectively.
Create a list of expectations
Every worthy project starts with some quality planning. With this in mind, you should create a list of your expectations. All your needs and wants should find their place on this list. If you, for example, plan a playing ground for your kids, make a list of all elements and activities you consider. This will also help you eliminate unrealistic elements on the way. With a further examination of your financial possibilities and detailed research about what you can acquire, you’ll have a good picture of how to proceed further. Also, expect to start looking for a solution to move your possessions if you are relocating. You can check Purple Heart Moving Group to ensure the entire moving process is done with the right attention.
Some of the most ideal outdoor living space solutions
Overall, you can find plenty of interesting outdoor living space solutions for your yard. The configuration of the land will usually dictate possibilities but it’s up to you to decide.
For example, here are some of the most popular and best ideas:
- Structures like season rooms, porches with retractable screen, outdoor kitchens, and various seating options.
- Various surface elements like terraces, walls, and paths.
- Interesting water elements like fountains, hot tubs, and, of course, swimming pools.
- Places with fire like grills, fire pits, and fireplaces.
- Covered structures like decks or patios, that are attached to the house.
- Covered structures like pavilions, gazebos, backyard sheds, and pool houses, not attached to the house.
Besides these, you and your kids will definitely enjoy structures for playing like swing sets, climbers, and slides. And for adults, you can consider even some gym elements.
Check the properties of the yard
Take a look at the particular yard. Whether it is a backyard or a front yard, closely inspect its topography. Generally, the size and shape of the land is the first thing you will notice. At this point, you should already have at least a partial idea about what you plan to do. And what you can do. Many ideas will depend on if the land is flat, or if there are slopes on it. For example, if you plan to build a pool, you will need a flat portion of the land. If there is a slope, it’s nearly impossible without serious investment in leveling.
Next, check the composition of objects in the yard. Trees, bushes, other smaller buildings, and similar objects. Think about if you need to remove or add something. For example, if you want to install a firepit, it would be ideal to place a concrete platform first.
Think about your outdoor activities
Many plans will depend on this step. If you plan to have a place to relax, you will need a suitable place for it. Maybe sitting somewhere in the shade, under a tree, or below the porch. Or you want to install a bench in the garden and enjoy the view. If you plan on having a playground, see if all the amenities can fit in your yard. Those who live in warm places are probably considering constructing a swimming pool. It’s a considerable but well worthy investment. Nevertheless, have an approximate idea about your outdoor activities and design your plans according to them.
Check for any local regulations
When making an outdoor project like yard renovation, always consider your neighborhood. You can either check with local authorities about what you can do. Or, you can ask or see what your neighbors are doing in their yards. This is an essential step if you are moving to a new neighborhood. If you are purchasing or renting a property with outdoor reconfiguration in mind, first check what is allowed. In fact, it’s the only way to be sure you will avoid disappointment later on. From placing a fence to the coloring of frontal elements, you will be surprised by how many regulations and rules apply.
Consider styling for a particular theme
Check for different styling options applicable to your outdoors. If you plan to add some roof extensions you definitely want to do it in the same architectural style as your house is. Not only it will save you from penalties but it will look more appealable to the eyes. The gazebo roof, for example, should follow the same housing style to be compact with the rest. Bear in mind that the same rule applies to the next elements as well:
- Porch columns
- House pillars
- Walls
- Poles
- Fences
- Doors
- Chimneys
- and many more
If you are not familiar with this, there are rich online resources where you can check housing styles.
Consult professionals
This is by far the safest option when you are designing an ideal outdoor living space. A professional exterior designer will be able to answer all your questions. And also to provide you with much useful and insightful advice. Furthermore, these professional designers can point out some important aspects you didn’t consider before. Like, how demanding maintenance might be. Or, how practical is the solution you are considering. Additionally, they can provide you with approximate estimates about costs and time requirements.
With this guide to designing an ideal outdoor living space, you should have a better understanding of what awaits you. And you will also be prepared to properly plan your future investment.
