More people are itching to get outside and enjoy the fresh air now than ever before. Unfortunately, the average lawn leaves a lot to be desired, only offering flat plains of grass without any fun or interesting spaces to lounge or entertain in.
These are some of the best tips for creating the outdoor living spaces of your dreams and what you should keep in mind while building.
Building Out Works
The most obvious option for people who want more outdoor space is to build a deck. Not only will this give you more horizontal space, but it lets you feel like you can simply step from your kitchen into another room: but that room is your yard!
Make sure to include safety features like welded wire deck railing, which will protect you and any guests from falling off of the deck. This also lends the space a more finished look that anyone could enjoy.
Make Them Cozy and Welcoming
Your outdoor spaces should be as comfortable and welcoming as your living room, or guest rooms are. Include good seating, fantastic tables, and even footstools if you want to make it as comfortable as possible.
A great idea many people are going for in 2023 is building a conversation ‘pit’ in their deck, where you can step down into seating and entertain in a fun environment.
Bring Light to the Space
The sun may stay out later in the summer, but it’s not the only time you’ll want to spend time on your deck! Add exterior lighting to ensure you can see everyone and extend your ability to party and have fun later into the evening.
Consider Some Functional Fun
Why not build an outdoor kitchen? If you love cooking and preparing food and don’t want to feel like you’re locked out of the conversation just because you’re working on dinner: an outdoor kitchen is the answer.
Including everything from a sink to an outdoor-safe stove and oven, and even a drinks bar, can make this the ultimate partying and fun space for everyone.
Give Yourself a Morning Coffee Spot
Outdoor spaces don’t just have to be for partying and entertaining other people. Sometimes all you want is a safe and secluded area to stop and enjoy your morning before you have to head to work or school. One upstairs coffee station and a balcony later, and you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.
These spaces are best in master bedrooms or areas without kids that still get a lot of use. You’ll get a private place to get fresh air, and your property value will get an immense boost from how highly many buyers want an area like this.
Remember to consider an overhanging ceiling here as well to protect it from rain and sunlight if you want to keep it as comfortable as possible.
Consider Entertainment Spaces
What entertainment are you going to have out here? Whether you’re hosting a party or your kid is having a sleepover, you want to offer areas where people will easily be able to gather and talk or have fun.
Fire pits are an obvious choice because they give you something warm to sit around and even let kids roast marshmallows or hotdogs.
You can also build water features or other installations that will give guests an obvious place to sit and relax while talking amongst themselves. This step will turn your home into one of the most popular gathering areas in your social circle!
Don’t Fear Building Up
Building up from your roof is an awesome option! Rooftop decks are quickly becoming one of the best ways to offer outdoor fun while not taking up any of your lawn. You have to work from a safe base of lightweight roof pavers and make sure the access route is easy for anyone to get in and out of.
Keep Heat and Insects in Mind
Heat and insect life are two things you need to keep in mind. Not only can the heat make it severely uncomfortable to sit and enjoy the fresh air without feeling like you’re baking, but direct sunlight can cause major skin damage.
When building your deck or outdoor space, make sure you have some shaded areas or even umbrellas you can expand to offer cover and safety.
For insect life, there are a few choices. You could plant a lot of basil, rosemary, and lemongrass as a starter. These have scents that scare off insects while also offering tasty food for you to work with later. You can also create a screened-in area if you’re tired of dealing with mosquitoes.
Your Outdoor Living Space Can Be a Dream Come True
If you’re ready to put in some work to create a balance between indoor and outdoor living: your lawn and social life will thrive! Consider some of these tips to make your outdoors as fantastic as your indoors.
