As a homeowner, you will agree that it’s not only the inside that counts. Our outdoor spaces too, need to be as inviting, comfy and stylish as the interiors. But If you have never done landscape design before, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the decisions you need to make and tasks to implement.
Think of it as an extension of the inside of your house. Then it should be more easy, colorful, fun and without a ceiling to limit your creativity. We’ve gathered a few simple, but effective tips to help you reinvent your backyard to a more colorful, inviting sanctuary.
Backyard redesign tips
1. Start by planning
Start by planning the way you want your space to look. Consider how you intend to change the space and what you plan to use it for.
Are you thinking of having a lawn for entertainment, outdoor eating and need good lighting on your patios and pathways? Or do you simply want to have a beautiful view every day as you drive into your home in the evening?
Let your preferences dictate the changes more than anything else. This will help you point out the outdoor features that need to be worked on.
2. Get the right plants for the right spots
This is where most homeowners feel discouraged to the point of neglecting their yards. One of the biggest mistakes they make is choosing the wrong plants or placing plants on the wrong spots. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right plants for a beautiful backyard;
- Adorn your entrance with flowers
Flowers make a great welcoming to your backyard. Get some annual flower plants to keep your backyard with color all year long. Try out Petunias, Snapdragons, and Lily-of-the-Nile. ‘Gertrude Jekyll’ roses are also a great addition to your list of backyard flowers.
- Get some rambling vines
Make the most out of your outdoor space by getting some rambling vines to wind around your fences and columns. Clematis is one of the most versatile and showiest vines we recommend adding to your flower collection.
- Or just get some hardy desert plants
Hardy plants don’t need a lot of attention and are not prone to diseases. They also provide your backyard with long-lasting color and structure.
3. Work on your lighting
Exterior lighting is a popular outdoor feature among landscapers. It’s an easy way to add beauty and curb appeal to your garden and walkways.
A great backyard lighting work goes far beyond the traditional lamp posts and porch lights. It involves choosing the best lights and lighting spots to compliment your outdoor space.
Having your lights strategically placed can help you to accentuate your outdoor plants, illuminate your walkways and create a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. When choosing the best lights, walk through your backyard and point out the key focal points. Focal points will help you in determining the placement of your key lighting points and fixtures in your yard. A focal point can be a majestic oak tree, a tall handsome palm tree or any other backyard feature.
4. Upgrade your pathways
Pathways in your backyard need maintenance. However, most owners don’t give a second thought to their backyard pathways once they have them installed. After a few years, stains and cracks start to form, and in no time become a hazard and an eyesore.
To prevent this, always make sure you apply a sealer on your concrete pathways after installation. An acrylic sealer will help protect your concrete pathways from weather, chemicals, and accidents. An acrylic sealer will also provide your surface with a wet, polished and glossy finish for years.
Alternatively, you can use pavers instead of concrete slabs for your pathways. Pavers are a great option for upgrading your pathways. They are easier to repair and replace than a concrete slab and can give you that elegant look your pathway deserves.
Finally,
Whether your backyard just needs different lighting or a complete refresh, redesigning your yard can be overwhelming. But a little effort coupled with the above ideas can help you transform your yard into an attractive outdoor space that you will cherish.
