When you’re thinking about creating an outdoor space you can use for entertaining, you really want to make the most of your area. An outdoor living space will work well when you first consider the natural environment of your property and surrounding areas, the architectural style of your house, and the structure of your outdoor space.
The Natural Environment
Take a look at the elements of your backyard. Do you have a swimming pool? Walkways? Vegetable garden? Deck? Porch? Use colors, finishes, and textures to link them all together in a way that’s visually pleasing.
Architectural Style
Keep the style of your home similar to the style of your outdoors. A whimsical backyard doesn’t flow into a geometric home. Find ways to provide continuity with the style. For example, you can use a pavement finish that’s similar to the color of the flooring on the inside of the house. You can carry the pavement to flagstone in your patio, the area around a swimming pool, and walkways.
The Structure of the Outdoor Space
You don’t have to fill your yard with only plants and lawn. Paved areas, like outdoor kitchens and walkways, can be beautiful and provide a gorgeous harmony between your home and outdoor living space.
Use Retaining Walls
If your land is located on a slope, you’ll likely need a retaining wall. These can be a perfect place for an outdoor entertainment center, such as a sitting area. Use materials that complement the environment to create a stunning decorative piece.
Create Separate Zones
Just like your home has separate rooms for separate functions, create separate zones in your outdoor living space to add interest, as well as multiple entertaining settings. Separate a flowered area from the lawn with walls or other landscaping elements.
Stone walls offer an elegant look to a garden when combined with beautiful plants. And since you can curve the wall in the way you want, stone walls also allow for you to cover imperfections in the yard.
Wood, and specifically pine, is a beautiful choice for a garden wall, and since it is inexpensive, it appeals to many homeowners. However, it is more susceptible to damage from mold and moisture. It won’t last as long as a stone wall, but if you can build it in an area with good drainage and can keep it lower than 2 feet tall, a wood wall can be a good choice.
Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens and barbecue areas create a luxurious area to relax and enjoy good food and good company. Outdoor kitchens can be a great investment, adding value to your home. And fortunately, most budgets can accommodate some sort of outdoor kitchen.
Think about the comforts in your indoor kitchen, and bring some of those elements outside. A sink and refrigerator will make food prep easier, while storage and garbage containers will keep you organized.
Choose a barbecue grill made to withstand the harsh elements; stainless steel is a good choice. Add outdoor furniture, gazebos, and cabanas to make the area more homey and inviting. Install patio heaters so you can enjoy the space year round.
In designing your outdoor kitchen, consider installing a water line for a sink and electrical outlets for refrigerators, lighting systems, and more. Using a licensed electrician is best.
Fire Pit or Fireplace
Fire pits or fireplaces are great additions to any backyard, as they bring people together for enjoyable bonding time. This area can be a beautiful focal point in your outdoor living space. Create adequate seating, and stock up on marshmallows!
Just as you take time and care decorating the interior of your home, carefully plan your outdoor living space. Infuse your own style and preferences into it, and make it an enjoyable place to be — for you and your guests.
