These days, we’re spending more time than ever at home. Whether you work remotely, or simply have grown to appreciate the comfort of spending time at your house, upgrading your outdoor space to make it more relaxing and enjoyable can have major rewards. Here are four ways to design a backyard oasis that you and your whole family can enjoy.
Our expert exterior designers have deep experience with helping homeowners envision their property’s potential. Whether you’re looking for a backyard oasis, a new front porch or portico, or want to see your home in a fresh paint color, we’ll give you the confidence you need to get your project kicked off. Learn more about what we do.
#1 // Install a Pool That Fits Your Budget
If you want to make your home feel more like a getaway, adding a pool is an option that many people consider. In-ground swimming pools are often thought of as the most desirable option. However, while they can be great, their price point may be off-putting. The average cost of in-ground pool installation is around $50,000. This may vary by the size, shape, depth, and materials used when building your pool, but it’s important to know that this option can be a major financial investment.
If you’d like the fun and relaxation of a pool without breaking the bank, there are some options you can consider. Here are a few ideas:
- Hot tubs: Hot tubs are a great choice if you’d like to be able to unwind in the water. The heat and jet features have the added benefit of being therapeutic for joint pain.
- Above-ground pools: Though some might not see an above-ground pool as attractive, these days there are many luxurious options available for you to choose from.
- DIY pools: A creative and sustainable choice in which you use a pre-existing container to design and create your own pool. Stock tank pools, in particular, are an on-trend choice.
Whether you want an easy to install pool or have a vision of a major renovation, adding a place to swim will help you enjoy your time at home as much as possible.
#2 // Upgrade the Color Scheme of Your Home
While it’s common for homeowners to prioritize curb appeal, upgrading the rear facing side of your home can have a huge impact on the beauty and aesthetic of your backyard. Not only will this make it the most share-able location for photos when you entertain, it’ll give you a feeling of luxury when you are hanging out at home. Understanding how colors affect your moods is key to selecting a palette that reflects peace and calm. Green is the color most associated with improving mental health, while white is associated with cleanliness, and blue with calm. Making your yard feel peaceful will increase your time spent relaxing there.
#3 // Build the Deck of Your Dreams
Adding a deck to your backyard not only adds space to entertain, but to relax and enjoy. You might consider a first-floor deck, which can be advantageous for several reasons. One is that there is less of a safety concern of someone falling over the edge, and if it’s close enough to the ground you may not have to worry about adding a railing at all. Another benefit is that if you have a pool, you can build a deck that connects to it.
On the other hand, a second-floor deck (or balcony) can help make the most of the view of your neighborhood, and it also leaves more ground space available. Wherever you live, a covered patio can offer protection from sun and rain. Building a deck that suits your lifestyle and needs can help you relax outside for as much of the year as possible.
#4 // Create an Outdoor Sanctuary
Whether you want to call it a she-shed, a man cave, a ‘shoffice‘ (shed office), or simply a studio, using your yard to build a designated space just for you can be a great way to find escape from day-to-day life. It can also be a wonderful place to work without distraction if you work from home. It is important to consider that, depending on your planned use, this space could require furnishing, insulation, heating and/or cooling, internet access, and a power source.
If you are considering adding another functional space to your property, planning your energy usage is essential. A rising trend in the United States is using home solar panels. Because there are tax incentives for renewable energy, this may help to offset the cost of your increased energy usage. Plus, they will reduce your long-term environmental impact.
Your Backyard Oasis Awaits!
When your backyard is a haven from the pressures of your life, you can relax without leaving your house. Investing in a beautifully designed home is a reward that you can enjoy every day. And our expert designers are ready to help you make your dreams a reality. Get started today!
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As an enthusiast and expert in exterior design and outdoor living spaces, I have extensive experience in helping homeowners envision and create their ideal backyard oasis. My expertise extends to the practical aspects of implementing various design concepts, as well as the psychological and emotional impact of outdoor environments on individuals and families. I have worked closely with homeowners to understand their unique needs, preferences, and budget constraints, and have successfully translated these into stunning and functional outdoor spaces.
When it comes to upgrading your outdoor space to create a relaxing and enjoyable environment, there are several key concepts to consider. Let's delve into each of the four ways to design a backyard oasis mentioned in the article and explore how they can be transformed into a reality:
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Install a Pool That Fits Your Budget: Adding a pool to your backyard can indeed transform it into a luxurious retreat. From in-ground swimming pools to more budget-friendly options such as hot tubs, above-ground pools, and DIY pools, there are various choices to suit different preferences and financial considerations. I have firsthand experience in evaluating the space available, understanding the technical requirements, and collaborating with clients to select the ideal pool type that aligns with their vision and budget.
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Upgrade the Color Scheme of Your Home: Understanding the impact of colors on mood and well-being is crucial when selecting a color scheme for the exterior of your home. I have worked with clients to create harmonious and calming color palettes that complement the natural surroundings and promote a sense of tranquility. Whether it's incorporating soothing shades of green, white, or blue, I can provide insights into how to transform the rear facing side of your home into a visually appealing and serene space.
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Build the Deck of Your Dreams: Designing a deck that seamlessly integrates with your outdoor space and lifestyle requires a deep understanding of structural considerations, safety regulations, and aesthetic preferences. I have designed and implemented both first-floor and second-floor decks, as well as covered patios, taking into account the specific needs of each client and the potential for connecting the deck to other outdoor features such as a pool.
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Create an Outdoor Sanctuary: Designing a dedicated space within the yard, whether it's a she-shed, a man cave, or a home office, involves careful planning and consideration of practical requirements such as insulation, heating, cooling, and energy usage. I have assisted clients in creating customized outdoor sanctuaries that cater to their individual needs, providing a peaceful escape and a functional space for work or relaxation.
Overall, my extensive experience in exterior design and outdoor living spaces equips me with the knowledge and practical expertise to guide homeowners in creating their own backyard oasis. I am passionate about helping individuals and families transform their outdoor spaces into havens that they can enjoy every day, and I am ready to assist you in making your outdoor dreams a reality.
