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Creating an Outdoor Retreat



You may be looking outside at a blank slate or a yard which has already become an outdoor oasis. With visions of tranquility and relaxation in mind, there are quite a few things that can be done to initiate or further enhance your backyard retreat. 

Privacy

Generally, the first step to creating this place of bliss, would be to make it restricted to family members or guests. Putting up a fence that limits visibility and access to outsiders is a possible solution, or you can use more natural elements such as trees and shrubbery to line the perimeter of your property. Read more about creating privacy in our previous blog post (https://bit.ly/2QYqvaL). 

Natural Additions

Populate with plants! Add some landscaping or find decorative planters in an array of colors and patterns to house your preference of flowers and other greenery (be sure to understand what works for your climate, optimal placement for sun exposure and planting timeline). Any of these can be placed on decking, patios, and within any outdoor rooms or structures. If satisfaction from cultivating fruits, vegetables, or herbs gives you a sense of satisfaction or tending to the maintenance provides a sense of zen, determine where you can place a garden. As with flowers and plants, follow the steps for ideal conditions. 

Well maintained grass is essential for aesthetics. Upkeep and proper care will ensure healthy and lush greenery. Adding mulch is often a good way to augment a lack of grass and to beautify areas around plants, patios, and other surfaces. 
Bird feeders can attract a variety of birds. Watching them and hearing chirping can be calming to some. An added bonus is that you’re helping them with a well-appreciated food source. 

Water/Heat Elements

If your family includes swimmers, a pool can serve as a visual centerpiece of your space and provide a lifetime of exercise and enjoyment. Choose some versatile lounge chairs, comfy cushions, tables, umbrellas and floats to enhance bathing and poolside enjoyment. Fountains or waterfalls can deliver a soothing stream of running water sounds that many find to be a relaxing source of serenity and white noise. Ponds are another option for a serene aquatic source of tranquility. On the opposite side, if warmth is appealing, or you are seeking comfort from chilly days or nights, fire pits are a great way to go. They give off heat, light, overall enjoyment of companionship around the fire, and the chance for a well-loved outdoor tradition, roasting marshmallows.  

Sights and Sounds

Although mother nature provides an abundance of peaceful noise, listening to music can be an excellent way to unwind and can also be used to block out any disturbing external noise. If looking for a permanent source of output, speakers masked as rocks can be hidden amongst landscaping or regular stereo systems can be installed in outdoor structures.  

Enjoyment of this splendid setting should not be limited to daylight hours. Lighting from fixtures, lanterns, and candles adds ability to see and stay outside after sunset and creates a fantastic glowing ambiance against dark skies. 

Entertaining Spaces

If enjoying refreshments completes your vision of the perfect retreat, consider adding a stand alone bar or outdoor kitchen for easy access to supplies and place to enjoy food and beverage. Selecting a patio set with ample seating is best if you like to entertain and plan to accommodate many people at once. Depending on space availability, couches or benches can serve dual purposes, both as an added source of relaxation and for additional seating. Dress up these areas with a cohesive selection of indoor/outdoor rugs, pillows or weatherproof decorations or signs. 

Although being out in the open is generally desired, at times, it may be preferable to escape mosquitos and other insects or the blistering sun or heat. Liferooms or patio covers can provide extended enjoyment outside while offering protection from certain elements. 

Overall, the possibilities to create your ultimate space are endless. Make plans in advance to give yourself ample opportunity to prepare in time for use. Contact us to find out how we can help translate your dream to reality. 

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