DESIGNING YOUR OUTDOOR AREA
Enjoying the great outdoors is even better when you're comfortable and have everything you need. This article offers tips on creating your ideal outdoor space, just in time for summer.
With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to redesign your outdoor space to enjoy the evening breeze and stunning pink sunset.
Whether you’re looking to create a cozy and comfortable area for a weekend BBQs or a serene spot for relaxation, finding the right patio design that meets your needs without stretching your budget can be a challenge
That’s why we’ve put together this guide filled with essential tips and tricks to help create your ideal living space.
WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND: THE PERFECT OUTDOOR AREA
SUN EXPOSURE
Does your outdoor area face east or west? If so, it will likely be flooded with sunlight at least twice a day. Consider adding shade cloths or blinds to your deck or patio to block the sun during these times.
Some blinders and shades can be folded away, ensuring you still get your daily dose of natural Vitamin D. Make sure these coverings are durable enough to withstand the elements over time.
WIND AND RAIN PROTECTION
If your deck or patio is exposed to strong winds and rain, spending time outdoors can be challenging.
Installing a transparent screen can effectively address this issue, protecting you and your outdoor furniture from wind and moisture without obstructing the view. It's like having a makeshift full-length window to enjoy watching the rain!
PAVERS & CONCRETE
Whether renovating your home or constructing new outdoor spaces, pavers and concrete can do wonders to increase its aesthetics and functionality. The good news is that you can choose different types of material according to your needs and budget.
Pavers are a popular choice for enhancing outdoor spaces, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. Available in various materials like concrete, brick, and natural stone, pavers can be used to create stunning patios, walkways, driveways, and more. Their modular design allows for easy installation and customization, enabling you to craft unique patterns and layouts that complement your home's exterior.
Concrete is a versatile and cost-effective material widely used in outdoor construction projects due to its strength and durability. Ideal for patios, driveways, walkways, and even outdoor kitchen countertops, concrete offers a solid foundation that can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions. Beyond its practicality, concrete can be customized to suit various design preferences. With options for staining, stamping, or polishing, concrete can mimic the look of more expensive materials like stone or tile while maintaining its affordability. Its ability to be poured into any shape also allows for creative freedom in design, making concrete a popular choice for homeowners seeking both function and style.
OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND SPACING
Before purchasing patio furniture, consider the purpose and atmosphere you want to create in your outdoor space. Are you aiming for a formal setting, a casual vibe, or a combination of both?
Deciding on this will help guide your choices. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy coffee nook, a dining area, or a versatile space with sections for different activities, key pieces like a coffee table, dining table, or cushioned couch can serve multiple purposes and enhance the functionality of your patio. Handcrafted wooden furniture, in particular, can add a timeless elegance to any outdoor setting.
Equally important is ensuring that your furniture is spaced out properly for both usability and aesthetics. Adequate spacing allows you to move around comfortably without obstacles, creating a welcoming environment. If you're planning an outdoor kitchen or frequently cooking outside, make sure to arrange lounge chairs and other furnishings safely, keeping flammable items away from the cooking area. Additionally, provide ample space around grills and outdoor fireplaces to ensure safety, especially if you have children or pets.
POOL FENCING AND DECKING
A swimming pool in your backyard is a luxurious feature, but it also increases the need for safety. Installing pool fencing with manual or automatic latches can help prevent children and pets from accidentally falling into the water.
When installing a pool deck, choose a slip-resistant and durable material that can withstand moisture and heavy foot traffic.
OUTDOOR KITCHENS: A MUST HAVE FOR YOUR IDEAL OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
Outdoor kitchens have become essential for creating the perfect outdoor living area. They allow you to take all cooking and meal prep outside, featuring essentials like durable countertops, grills, sinks, refrigeration, and ample storage. A well-designed outdoor kitchen also includes seating at extended countertops, along with proper lighting and ventilation to ensure both comfort and functionality, making it a seamless extension of your home’s living space.
CREATE AMBIANCE WITH FIRE FEATURES
Outdoor fire features, such as fire pits, create an unbeatable ambiance and cozy gathering space in your outdoor living area. Other popular options include fireplaces, chimineas, fire tables, and small fountain fire features. These elements provide mood lighting and warmth for partially enclosed outdoor areas. Follow safety guidelines on placement and check local building codes when installing any fire feature.
ELEVATE WITH THOUGHTFUL LANDSCAPING
Thoughtful landscaping can transform your outdoor area into a vibrant and inviting oasis. Start by incorporating hardscaping features like patios, walkways, and benches to establish the foundation of your space. Then, strategically place softscaping elements such as plants, trees, and greenery to bring life and texture to the layout. Add wall art, water features, and decorative lighting to enhance the atmosphere, while privacy elements like screens ensure a comfortable, secluded environment.
To complete the look, consider ornamentation and a well-maintained lawn, keeping in mind the ongoing maintenance required to preserve the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.
MAXIMIZE ENJOYMENT WITH DESIGNATED AREAS
Maximize the enjoyment of your outdoor living space by incorporating designated entertaining areas. Create special zones for dining, lounging, bars, music, games, grilling, and more. Consider weather-resistant furniture, outdoor accessories like rugs, focal points, and storage space. Extras like outdoor speakers, yard games storage, fire pit seating arrangements, and dance floors can turn your outdoor space into a dream backyard.
AMBIENCE OF THE AREA
The ambience of your outdoor space should align with its intended use. For instance, if you're aiming to create a serene retreat, consider an elevated covered deck with foldable privacy screens that provide seclusion and comfort throughout the year. This setup not only offers a private escape from the prying eyes of neighbors but also serves as an ideal spot for relaxation.
Alternatively, a ground-level covered patio can become your go-to outdoor room for unwinding after a long week, offering an inviting space to relax and enjoy the fresh air. For those who love to entertain, a covered poolside timber deck could make you the ultimate host of pool parties.
Beyond the main structures, elements like lighting and plants play a crucial role in setting the mood. Strategically placed potted plants and soft, low lighting can create a calming, peaceful atmosphere that enhances the overall experience of your outdoor space.
PERGOLAS AND GAZEBOS
Homeowners often choose pergolas to create partially shaded outdoor seating areas that let in just the right amount of sunlight while ensuring good air circulation. For outdoor cooking or lounging spaces, experts can help you design a pergola structure tailored to your specific area, maximizing both style and function.
Similarly, a gazebo can enhance the functionality of your garden or backyard by providing a free-standing, covered seating area perfect for relaxation. Typically crafted from wood, gazebos can also be outfitted with privacy screens or nets to keep pests and insects at bay, offering a serene and comfortable outdoor retreat.
LAYOUT OF THE AREA
When building or renovating your home, it's essential to design your outdoor space for long-term functionality.
One key tip is to position your deck or patio to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas. By aligning the design with your interior layout, you ensure easy access to the inside of your home, making tasks like bringing out food or clearing away dishes more convenient during outdoor cooking and entertaining.
DESIGNING YOUR PERFECT OUTDOOR AREA
Life can be hectic, and a thoughtfully designed outdoor living space can provide a much-needed escape from stress while offering a perfect spot to spend quality time with loved ones.
If our ideas have inspired you to redesign your outdoor area or even your living room, reach out to AVZ Building Company. We specialize in services like pavers and patio construction to help you create the ideal outdoor retreat. We look forward to helping you bring your vision to life!
See you next time!
