With fall finally approaching, I'm looking forward to spending more time outdoors enjoying the cooler air and lower humidity. Cookouts, firepits, and general outdoor lounging are a great way to unwind after a long, busy workday! Unfortunately, I have a pretty tiny backyard, so I have to get creative to make sure I get the most out of my space. Read on to find my top 4 tips on how to maximize your outside areas, large or small!
1. Define the space. Just as you would with your indoor areas, defining your outdoor space can make it seem larger and provide more function. Designate one area for the barbeque - you'll want to pick a level space, where the smoke from the grill isn't going to blow straight into the house, and make sure this area is well lit for safety. Set up a nice outdoor table and chairs, so that your friends and familiy have a nice spot to enjoy their dinner, or to sit and chat. There are thousands of different options for great outdoor fabrics, so don't feel like you're limited to those old fashioned lounge chairs! Additionally, you can purchase a small outdoor firepit - these are extremely convenient because of their portability, so if you have limited space you can always store it in the shed and pull it out when the craving for s'mores hits you!
2. Trick the eye. If you don't have a lot of square footage, trick the eye into thinking the space is larger
by trying some vertical landscaping. In my own backyard, I installed a trellis along one side and covered it in some absolutely amazing smelling jasmine. These vines thrive in the tropical climate here in Florida, and every so often I go out there and wrap the new growth around the trellis, creating a whole wall of beautiful green leaves and aromatic white flowers. If your area is fenced, think about using some vertical planters to turn one side of the fence into an herb garden! Also, you could consider adding some paving stones at a 45 degree angle to give the illusion of a larger surface area.
3. Pay attention to the scale of the space. It goes without saying that if you have a very small backyard, you probably shouldn't go out and shop for a 12-person table and chairs. Keep things more intimate in the smaller space, and look for items that serve a dual purpose. Check into a nice weather resistent ottoman that can hold drinks for a small gathering, or serve as additional seating for a larger get-together. Look into a smaller table that either expands or has additional insertable leaves you can use when necessary. Instead of purchasing a huge umbrella to provide a nice shady spot, think about installing a retractable awning that will serve the same purpose without sacrificing any floor space. When thinking of landscaping ideas, keep the plants smaller and more unobtrusive. You don't want to plant a giant oak tree in a 10x12 yard!!
4. Keep it simple! Most importantly, remember that your outdoor space's main purpose is for you to enjoy the outdoors! Don't clutter everything up with every neat idea you see online or at the garden store. I know it's tempting, believe me! But the space will be much more peaceful and functional if it's not filled with 37 garden gnomes, 12 pink flamingos, and 73 potted plants. Keep the color palatte neutral and opt instead for a couple of bold colored throw pillows that can be changed out with the seasons. Use larger planters and fill them with a variety of aromatic flowers or herbs, and then place them around the borders of the area where they won't impede the walking space. Your backyard should be a peaceful oasis, no matter the size!
850.661.1440
Comments(2)