In good weather, everyone loves spending time outdoors in a comfortable and attractive setting. You can make that kind of place in your yard to extend your property’s living area beyond the walls of your home. With a minimal investment of time and money, you can create a welcoming oasis where family and friends can gather, relax, and have fun.
Decide on the Area to Improve
Start by deciding which area in your yard you want to improve for this purpose. Mark it off to separate it from the rest of the lawn. Instead of laying a concrete foundation or a brick floor, you can achieve the same purpose by working with a stone gravel supplier. Spread gravel in your designated area so that it will be easy to care for. You can opt for colored gravel or choose from various sizes to get the desired effect. Gravel won’t get muddy like soil, and it won’t chip like brick or blocks do.
Add Cover
A retractable canvas roof awning offers simple but effective cover for your entertainment area. It’s affordable and easy to keep clean, and you can retract it when not in use to prevent birds and insects nesting in it. Another option is to add beach umbrellas attached to patio tables for sheltered seating. You can also plant young, leafy trees to help block direct sunlight from your outdoor haven. A suspended mosquito net can keep insects away while bamboo blinds help to block the sun’s heat.
Install Seating
People love sitting on a porch swing, glider, or patio rocking chairs that provide comfortable relaxation seating. You may want to add a loveseat or small weatherproof sofa for napping opportunities. A picnic table and bench let you eat in rustic style in your cozy outside nook. Include a few throw cushions for color and comfort in your yard getaway place.
Don’t Forget the Lights
Nighttime ground lights will look great around your yard enclosure and help people to see their way around. Lanterns are another way to light up your night without relying on electricity. Mini holiday lights can be strung around your respite area for a festive air and minimal illumination. An outdoor light on the back of the house or the shed can brighten your outside space for safe activities. Or you can just give everyone a flashlight and let them use it as needed.
Make your yard a place of relaxation and respite. It won’t take much to create a fun getaway right in your own backyard.
About the author:
Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.