American society has changed over the past few years as consumer spending habits have shifted to accommodate economic ups and downs. There has been a shift to more home-based activities, and many homeowners are opting to expand or remodel as a result.
In place of a vacation, it’s possible to create an exterior living space with amenities like a patio, all-weather furniture, outdoor lighting, fireplaces, and outdoor kitchens. This allows for long-lasting enjoyment in the comfort of home, and increases the utility and value of the property.
Good design is the key to creating an outdoor room. By embracing the following steps, you will be on the way to attaining the yard of your dreams.
1. Determine the purpose of the room.
Step one in the design process is to create a list of needs and wants for all residents, then prioritize. How will it be used most? As an outdoor kitchen, a cozy nook for two, an al fresco dining room, a gathering place for friends and family, a quiet place to read and write, or an entertainment center?
2. See it as a room.
Don’t set limits while envisioning a room without walls – consider any option and think big. Some people have difficulty seeing how a room without walls can be decorated, but as soon as they picture a pergola or outdoor structure, it’s easier to define the space.
3. Create a Landscape Plan.
Make efficient use of space and time by working with a designer or landscape architect who will analyze the site, provide solutions and develop a scaled plan that includes the desired elements. Besides offering valuable building and layout ideas, a professional will be able to provide a rough estimate on project costs.
4. Prepare a Timeline and Stick to the Budget.
Be sure that a savings plan and budget are in place to cover the cost for new items, renovations, and professional services. Determine which parts of the project can be done in phases to meet budgeting needs. With a structured plan, it is much easier to work in phases and not end up with a mismatched or unfinished final result.
Be sure that a savings plan and budget are in place to cover the cost for new items, renovations, and professional services. Determine which parts of the project can be done in phases to meet budgeting needs. With a structured plan, it is much easier to work in phases and not end up with a mismatched or unfinished final result.
5. Take Inventory.
There may be salvageable items for use that are currently available in a garage or storage space. What needs to be replaced or refurbished? Consider each component for the outdoor space in this inventory.
6. Do Your Homework.
For some landscape projects and outdoor rooms, a city permit may be needed. Also consider any work such as pavement, gas lines, or installation that may need to be done by contract workers. Be sure you know the lay of the land – some items may need a flat surface. Also consider the climate, the direction of the sun, shading, noise and privacy factors.
For some landscape projects and outdoor rooms, a city permit may be needed. Also consider any work such as pavement, gas lines, or installation that may need to be done by contract workers. Be sure you know the lay of the land – some items may need a flat surface. Also consider the climate, the direction of the sun, shading, noise and privacy factors.
7. Save Time and Money.
Find local talent to help with set up, assembly and manual labor – especially the heavy lifting. Ask around to get recommendations for experienced, reliable workers. It may take time up front, but will save you time and effort in the long run. Another idea to consider is DIY (Do It Yourself) options. Everyone wants to save a buck, and while working on various phases, there may be elements homeowners can manage themselves.
Find local talent to help with set up, assembly and manual labor – especially the heavy lifting. Ask around to get recommendations for experienced, reliable workers. It may take time up front, but will save you time and effort in the long run. Another idea to consider is DIY (Do It Yourself) options. Everyone wants to save a buck, and while working on various phases, there may be elements homeowners can manage themselves.
8. Entertain Outdoors.
Kitchens are the heart of the home indoors, and they are becoming an equally essential element outside of the home. Grilling islands now offer everything from storage space to refrigeration, sinks, even outdoor TV’s. Remember to check restrictions or codes related to use of open flames or any requirements for natural gas lines.
9. Light up the Night and Turn on the Heat.
People are naturally attracted to flame. Think of fire either as an anchor or centerpiece for the room. Setting a fire pit in the middle of the space creates a cozy focal point, while a fireplace just outside the perimeter brings natural warmth to the whole room. Lanterns, solar lights, infrared heaters, or hanging lights add ambience and a glow to the whole yard.
People are naturally attracted to flame. Think of fire either as an anchor or centerpiece for the room. Setting a fire pit in the middle of the space creates a cozy focal point, while a fireplace just outside the perimeter brings natural warmth to the whole room. Lanterns, solar lights, infrared heaters, or hanging lights add ambience and a glow to the whole yard.
10. Pay Attention to Design and Detail.
Strategically placed plants and accessories add the finishing touches to an outdoor room. Now it’s all about aesthetics: hanging plants, outdoor rugs, art, lawn games, potted plants, candles, etc. Pull in colors and textures from the home architecture to create a seamless transition from indoors to out.
