Perhaps you’ve long desired an outdoor space where you can relax in the sun and have some fun with family and friends. Now is the time to pursue that dream! Your backyard paradise could be right around the corner, but you’ll need to do some planning and make some decisions. Read on for a few ideas to get you started on the backyard you’ve always wanted.
The Perfect Patio
Your patio will likely be a major part of your backyard paradise. It is, after all, your main outdoor living space, so it should be as comfortable and complete as possible. Focus on seating first. You’ll probably want a combination of cozy couches and chairs with outdoor cushions in coordinating colors. Add a coffee table and some side tables for decoration and convenience.
A fire pit, either permanent or portable, will provide warmth and the prime spot for toasting marshmallows and telling stories. Designate another part of your patio as an eating area with a table and chairs. You could use retractable awning to cover part or all of your patio or build one of the popular patio enclosures Florida to enjoy your patio in any weather.
An Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen is another important element of your patio space, especially if you love to cook outdoors and entertain. Outdoor kitchens can get pretty elaborate these days. Start with your grill. If you use it a lot, you’ll want a high-end model that will allow you to prepare all kinds of delicious dishes. Some grills even come with side burners, multiple grilling racks and rotisseries.
Next, build your kitchen around your grill. You could include counter space for food preparation, a mini-fridge for drinks and cupboards for supplies. You might splurge on a sink or a wood-burning fireplace, too, and some outdoor kitchens come complete with their own pizza ovens.
A Pool
A pool may well be the centerpiece of your new backyard paradise. If you already have one, you can improve it by adding a separate hot tub or spa or by enclosing it to make your outdoor experience even more comfortable. A new pool will require more planning, for you’ll have to decide on a style and size that fit your budget and your yard. Don’t forget to include a pool deck and seating areas, too, so that you can join your family and friends for hours of enjoyment in and out of the water.
Play Space
If you have kids, then part of your backyard paradise should be a play space for them. Include playground equipment like a swing set with a slide. If you have room, you can get fancier with a deluxe set that allows for climbing, sliding, swinging and more. Some models even look like little log cabins and feature a play house. You might also design an area for outdoor games or work with your kids to build a sturdy tree house.
A Pet Sanctuary
Don’t neglect your pets when you’re planning your ideal outdoor space. They need a place to run and play, too. Your cat might like an enclosed “catio” that allows for fresh air and plenty of bird watching while keeping your cat safe. You dog would love a fenced-in area to run and play and a cozy doghouse for naps in the cool shade.
Gardens Galore
Perhaps you have a green thumb. In that case, focus on your gardens. Begin by identifying the types of flowers that grow well in your climate and drawing up a layout that blends colors and flower types in a beautiful pattern. Be mindful of the care each flower or bush will need. You might add some garden paths, a water feature and a little seating area covered with a pergola to make your gardens extra special.
A Gazebo
An extra special element in the midst of your gardens may be a gazebo. These cozy little buildings offer seating for reading, conversation, board games, napping and more. Traditionally, gazebos are round, but you might choose a more modern square or rectangular design. Side curtains can provide shade, and you might even screen-in your gazebo to avoid pesky bugs.
Even if you can’t afford to include all these ideas, your backyard can still be a paradise if you design it to suit your interests and to be a place where you can relax and have fun.