The weather is heating up, making it the perfect time to spend time outdoors, and that means having a great outdoor living space is a big goal. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to spruce up your existing space, here are a few tips to help.
Create Privacy
While we may love our neighbors, having a private space where you don’t feel watched is important. When creating your outdoor living areas, look for areas that naturally add a sense of privacy, including along fences or up against your house. Want even more privacy and a sense of seclusion, add a trellis around your seating/entertainment area.
Make Sure You Have Shade
Getting sunburned and feeling overheated definitely are not enjoyable, so plan for shade when you are creating outdoor living areas. This can include everything from installing a pergola or other permanent covering to adding umbrellas to the space. You can also use landscaping to add space – plant a tree, add larger bushes, etc.
Bring the Indoors Out
Just because it’s an outdoor space doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish, and many of the things you do to add style and comfort inside can do the same outdoors. Add an outdoor rug to soften the space and add color and pattern. Pillows can add pops of color and comfort to your outdoor seating. Hang pictures and other décor items on walls. For ambiance in the evening and at night, add lanterns, string lights and other lighting options. And don’t think flowers and plants just belong in flower beds. Just like you can add planters indoors, planters are perfect on patios and elsewhere in the year.
Add a Fire Feature
Picture you and your family and friends sitting around a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, talking, laughing, and just enjoying your time together. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? A fire feature is the perfect way to create a great gathering spot in your yard. One word of advice, be sure to look into your local ordinances before purchasing or installing a fire pit or outdoor fireplace to ensure you are following all rules.
Add a Water Feature
Just as a fire feature can vastly improve your outdoor space, so can a water feature. Whether it’s a larger fountain or a tabletop one, the water feature has the dual purpose of adding beauty to the space and creating calm.
Include a Variety of Seating Options
This isn’t just about having enough seating for guests but making sure they have options to be most comfortable while hanging out. From benches to chairs of varying heights and materials, mix up your seating outdoors. This can also help you beat the blahs by adding different textures, colors, etc., to your décor.
Looking for your dream home? Liberty Homes has been building new homes in Utah for more than 25 years. We take pride in our trade, crafting each home as if it were our own. Our quality, affordable homes are energy smart and thoughtfully personalized for your active Utah lifestyle. We currently have new single-family homes available in Bluffdale and West Valley. Contact us today to get started building your new home.
