Creating an outdoor living space expands the home and provides extra room for entertaining or just relaxing in the sun or under the stars. The appeal of the outdoors affects us all and having a well-designed space just steps away helps us to escape the hectic pace of our lives and breathe in the fresh air with style.
When designating an area for an outdoor living space, consider the surroundings and if enclosures are desired. For partial shade, incorporate trees into the space. If there are no trees, use umbrellas or build pergolas for partial coverage. Enclose the area in columns for a regal appearance or use areas of lattice fencing for a more casual feel.
If you are designing your space in the yard or garden, slate or other natural materials can form the floor. Use outdoor rugs to anchor a particular seating area and to add texture and color. Customized bench seating topped with cushions can be useful for additional outdoor storage and form the foundation for a living space.
Make furniture choices depending on the amount of space you have available. Passage through the area should be free-flowing and void of any obstructions. Upholster loungers, chairs, ottomans, benches or stools in durable outdoor fabrics. Include throw pillows for a punch of color and added comfort.
An outdoor fireplace or fire pit make outdoor living comfortable in all seasons. Imagine sitting under the stars with a fire burning in the fireplace on a cool night or roasting marshmallows with the kids over a fire pit.
For a truly magical escape, install a water feature such as a flowing fountain or the ever-popular hot tub. For maximum impact, create a raised area for the hot tub or incorporate a fountain into the hot tub area.
Lighting can be supplied by candles, outdoor lamps or string lights. You can make your space softly romantic or creatively lively with different styles of lighting. For the deck, lighting can be a part of the deck installation for the perfect amount of nighttime illumination. Install lighting along walkways for safe passage to and from the living area.
Photos courtesy of BHG
Outdoor living spaces create the perfect setting for fun gatherings or just relaxing with friends and family. So, pour yourself a cool drink and enjoy the outdoors in the comfort of your own back yard.
Creating an Outdoor Living Space: Enhancing Your Home with Water Features
Transforming your outdoor space into a relaxing oasis can substantially enhance the ambiance of your home. When done right, adding water features like a flowing fountain or a hot tub can create a magical escape right in your backyard. Let’s explore how you can incorporate these elements to create a truly enchanting outdoor living space.
Benefits of Water Features in Outdoor Living Spaces
Water features not only add visual appeal to your outdoor area but also offer a range of benefits that can elevate your overall living experience:
- Enhance relaxation and tranquility
- Create a focal point for the outdoor space
- Improve air quality through natural water circulation
- Add a touch of luxury and sophistication
- Increase the value of your property
Practical Tips for Incorporating Water Features
When designing your outdoor living space, consider the following tips to effectively incorporate water features:
- Choose a water feature that complements your overall design aesthetic
- Ensure proper maintenance to prevent algae growth and debris buildup
- Position the water feature strategically to maximize it’s visual impact
- Consider incorporating lighting to enhance the ambience in the evening
Creating a Magical Escape with Water Features
For a truly enchanting outdoor retreat, consider installing a water feature like a flowing fountain or a hot tub. Here are some ways to elevate the experience:
| Water Feature | Enhancement |
|---|---|
| Flowing Fountain | create a soothing ambiance with the gentle sound of flowing water |
| Hot Tub | relax and unwind in a luxurious hot tub surrounded by nature |
For maximum impact, consider creating a raised area for the hot tub or incorporating a fountain into the hot tub area. This design choice not only adds visual interest but also enhances the overall experience of your outdoor living space.
Case Studies: Real-Life examples of Water Feature Installations
let’s take a look at a couple of case studies that showcase the transformative power of water features in outdoor living spaces:
Case Study 1: Fountain Oasis
A homeowner in a suburban neighborhood installed a stunning fountain in their backyard to create a peaceful oasis. The soothing sounds of the fountain mask the noise from the surroundings, providing a serene retreat for the family.
Case Study 2: Hot Tub Haven
In a mountain resort setting,a hot tub was installed on a raised deck surrounded by lush greenery. This elevated hot tub area offers stunning views of the landscape while providing a luxurious and relaxing experience for guests.
First-Hand experience: Tips for Maintaining Water Features
As an outdoor enthusiast and water feature aficionado, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep these elements in top condition:
- Regularly clean and check water levels
- Use natural additives to maintain water quality
- Protect against freezing during colder months
- Inspect and repair any leaks promptly
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your water features continue to enhance your outdoor living space for years to come.
Adding water features to your outdoor living space can truly elevate the ambiance and create a serene oasis right in your own backyard. Whether you opt for a flowing fountain or a luxurious hot tub, incorporating these elements can provide a magical escape for relaxation and rejuvenation.
I love the idea of transforming your backyard into a beautiful outdoor oasis! What are some essential elements you think everyone should include?