Backyard Oasis
Well it doesn’t look like COVID is going anywhere despite what our friendly neighbours to the south said. “It’s going to disappear. One day it’s like a miracle, it will disappear”, said you-know-who.
It is here to stay…for a while at least.
Which means more time at home. Sigh.
I talk a lot about renovations inside the home. But this week I’m talking about outside space – the backyard. Since the weather is warm right now…and it will probably be cold next week again (typical Canadian weather, eh?….it is time to start thinking of that neglected space behind your home.
Most likely we all will be spending a lot more time this summer in the back yard and I thought it would be fun to talk about designing a space that will bring a bit of bliss to your life. And as always, you need a plan. And you know me, I love a good plan.
THE PLAN: 5 ZONES
Let’s talk about a few of the key zones to incorporate into your plan to make use of your space in the best way possible.
If you have a large space, then most of these ideas will could be implemented. But if you have a small back yard, pick the ones that make sense for your lifestyle and do them well.
Dining Zone
Let’s talk about a few of the key zones to incorporate into your plan to make use of your space in the best way possible.
If you have a large space, then most of these ideas will could be implemented. But if you have a small back yard, pick the ones that make sense for your lifestyle and do them well.
Kitchen + Bar Zone
When you love entertaining you need an outdoor kitchen. It really doesn’t need to be crazy fancy (or it can!) just a space for food prep, sink, small fridge and your BBQ. Having some cabinetry or a separate stand alone cabinet to house dishes, glasses, placemats, etc is an added bonus.
Seating Zone
Having a separate seating area from the dining space is a good idea if you have the space. This space could be just a few chairs and a low table for drinks before dinner. There is also something to be said for that cosy shaded nook where one can curl up with a book or take a snooze.
Play Zone
It’s probably not at the top of everyone’s priority list, but having an area where the kids (and adult kids) can play games like bocci ball, badminton, crochet, horseshoes, etc. It certainly adds to the fun of the space and can entertain people for hours.
Fire Pit Zone
There’s nothing like sitting ‘round a firepit on a cool evening!
Be Creative with Your Plan
Small Spaces
There are challenges to small backyards. Here are some ideas on ways you can double up on ideas or add something special to your space.
- Combine the seating area with the fire pit. During the day the pit can serve as table with a simple cover over it; at night it becomes a whole other experience!
- Build a day bed that doubles as storage. All you need to do is build a big box with a hinged lid, add a nice thick pad to the top and some oversized pillows, and voila! To add to this cosy area, consider building a simple pergola for added privacy.
- Nosy neighbours? Erect a few privacy screens around your space.
- Add plants to make the space fill up nicely. Container gardening is great for small spaces. You can also place small garden beds in key spots to separate different zones.
- Add a small portable fountain for a relaxing vibe.
- Add outdoor lights to add ambience during the evening. String lights or lanterns are perfect for this!
Large Spaces
People who are blessed with large backyards (not me!), have a lot more options. But the budget will also have to be bigger too! Here are some ideas to fill up that large void.
- Ensure your dining area and seating area are separate physically and visually. For example, use an outdoor flooring for your dining area and a low deck for a seating area. Separate the areas with planters.
- Install a water feature for added ambiance. Add fish and plants to make it a focal point.
- Fill up your space using pergolas, privacy screens, planters, landscaping, decks. This is also a great way to identify zones and create the feeling of an outdoor room.
- Incorporate permanent play areas – like a basketball hoops and a concrete pad. Just make sure they are off to the side where the dining and seating areas are located.
A Final Word
Creating a blissful backyard will help you get though the summer without bouncing off the walls of your home. Like me.
If you are serious about creating an oasis, your best bet is to call a landscape architect or a gardening centre. And then once it is done, invite me over so we can enjoy your space. ok? Alright then!!
Do you want to know more about my services like my Renovation Design Plan service? Set up a 20 minute discovery call with me. Just know that this time we spend together is to determine if your project is best served by my services. If it doesn’t, I will tell you. And if it does, I will definitely tell you!
Don’t forget to download your My Renovation Planner below!
Until next time, stay safe my friends…
Roxanne
P.S. if you want more information about Design Your Renovation – an innovative online guided design process – contact me and let me know. I’ll add you to my list of those who want to know when it launches!
