A well designed and properly executed backyard can easily become your home's most exciting feature. We enjoy spending time outdoors, so there's no reason not to make your outside space the highlight of your property. In order to make the most of your yard, you'll have to plan ahead. While your particular tastes and family dynamics are likely to come into play, there are certain features that will improve almost any yard. Here's what you should plan on doing if you want your yard to become an outdoor paradise.
Include Plenty of Seating
In order to really enjoy your yard, you'll need to have plenty of places to sit. Not only should you include seating for yourself and your family, but you should also consider the possibility of having guests over to enjoy your outdoor space. Invest in furniture that is just as comfortable as what you use in your living room. That way, you'll be happy to sit and enjoy the great outdoors for hours on end. Before you know it, you'll be spending more time outside your home than you do inside it.
Provide Shade By Natural or Artificial Means
Summer days can be hot and sticky, and you won't want to sit outside beneath the sun's scorching rays. If there's no shade available, then you might miss out on enjoying your yard for large portions of the summer. Trees are great because they're beautiful and offer natural shade. You could try planting some trees now that will slowly grow into great shade providers. For more immediate relief, consider installing umbrellas or an overhang.
Leave Plenty of Open Space
Don't make the mistake of filling up every inch of your yard with gardens, playgrounds, furniture, or trees. Sometimes, a yard's greatest attribute is its open space. With plenty of room for a lawn, you and your family will be able to play frisbee, wiffle ball, and all sorts of other games.
Splurge on One Luxury Item
While furniture, shade, and space are important components of any decent yard, you should consider investing in one special amenity that will give your property its unique flavor. Swimming pools, hot tubs, and soccer nets are all great for setting your yard apart and making it a favorite hangout for your friends and family.
Having a great yard will make life much more enjoyable for your and your family. Follow this advice to get the most out of your outdoor space.
About the author:
Emma is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2
