Bring your dream outdoor oasis to life – Better Homes and Gardens style. Start by incorporating furniture, decor, and landscaping that complement your style and needs. Here are some creative ideas for transforming your backyard into a relaxing retreat where you can relax or entertain family and friends.
USE TEXTILES TO INTRODUCE COLORS AND PATTERNS
Make your deck or patio more comfortable and stylish with weather-resistant textiles. Choose a color scheme, and then collect outdoor pillows in a variety of sizes and patterns. Select fabrics that dry quickly, are resistant to UV rays, and are easy to clean. A fashionable outdoor rug can enhance your seating area’s color and pattern.
PROVIDE COZY LOUNGE AREAS
Your backyard is ideal for dining and entertaining but it’s also a wonderful place to relax. Hang a hammock between two trees or deck posts for a cozy afternoon nap spot. An elegant chaise lounge is ideal for reading or sunbathing. Fill your outdoor furniture with pillows and cushions for added comfort. The result is a private outdoor oasis you won’t want to leave.
CREATE A TROPICAL LUSH GARDEN
Decorate your outdoor space with plants. Use attractive plant containers to refresh your seating area. Succulents in a shallow planter make a lovely table centerpiece. To add privacy, strategically place tall, leafy plants. Wicker serving trays or baskets filled with decorative rattan balls will evoke a natural vibe. Additionally, investing in landscaping is a smart way to increase your home’s value. Check out these 10 landscaping projects recommended by industry experts.
INVEST IN OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Start with porch lights that light the way and create a cozy atmosphere. Outdoor kitchens should have task lighting over the grill and prep areas. Candlelight, pendant lights, or string lights can set the tone in dining and conversation rooms. Safety is key, so illuminate steps and pathways. Adding solar-powered accent lights or low-voltage options will improve your landscape. Using a variety of lighting sources, you can transform your backyard into an enchanting getaway after sunset.
IF YOU HAVE EXTRA SPACE… KICK IT UP A NOTCH WITH AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN
Ideally, the outdoor kitchen should include a barbecue grill, burner, griddle, refrigerator, storage, prep sink, crockery and utensils, and comfortable chairs and tables. However, you can raise this setup by several notches by adding a pizza oven, wine cooler, dishwasher, ice maker, ventilation, and insulation. Set up beverage dispensers on a stand so guests can self-serve!
PROVIDE SHADE
When the weather is hot and sunny, an overhead cover is helpful. Buying homes or condos with tall trees brings natural and sustainable shade… or consider portable umbrellas to offer further flexibility. Pergolas, trellises, and gazebos combine architectural beauty, shelter, and style. Make your outdoor space more inviting, comfortable, and safe by choosing the right shade.
SET UP A FIREPIT
Firepits make ideal focal points for any outdoor space. Add a dining table, bar stools, and chairs next to the fireplace and you have the perfect outdoor venue for relaxing and entertaining.
Firepits also make outdoor areas more enjoyable in winter. NOTE: every city has its own fire codes regarding grills and outdoor firepits…consult with the local fire department or City Hall for further information on what’s allowed in your city or town.
Do you want to make the most of your outdoor retreat? Get expert advice from the consultants at the Steve Bremis Realty Group, a legacy in Boston real estate for over 60 years. They have the resources to design your backyard in exactly the way you want it. Call us at 617.828.1070 or send us an email here to inquire about our services.