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Your backyard can be a great place to relax and spend time with friends and family. It can also be a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With some planning, you can transform your backyard into a staycation destination perfect for entertaining guests or just enjoying the outdoors in the comfort of your home. Here are six tips to help you get started:
Create Intimate Seating Arrangements
Nothing says vacation like a cozy spot to relax with a good book or enjoy a leisurely meal. Create small, intimate seating areas throughout your yard to encourage guests to linger and enjoy the surroundings. Use potted plants or trellises to define each space and add privacy.
Investing in quality furniture and cushions can make your outdoor seating even more inviting. When choosing outdoor furniture, make sure it is made of materials that can handle the elements and won’t fade quickly. Waterproof cushions and pillows will help keep your furnishings looking fresh.
Plan for All Seasons
When creating your staycation destination, be sure to plan for all the seasons. You may want to add a retractable canopy or patio cover to provide shade in warmer weather. Consider adding a heater or fire pit during cooler months to keep guests warm and cozy. Investing in weatherproof furniture and accessories will help you enjoy your backyard staycation destination all year round.
Create Ambiance With Outdoor Lighting
Lighting can set the perfect mood for a staycation destination. Strings of twinkling lights hung across your patio area or in trees will give your backyard an inviting atmosphere at night.
If you have a deck, investing in low voltage LED deck lights will provide you with the perfect ambiance for your evening socialization. For your pathways, choose lights to provide safety while giving your backyard a great look.
Set Up an Outdoor Kitchen
Make the most of your outdoor space by adding an outdoor kitchen. This will give you a place to prepare meals for friends and family or enjoy a glass of wine in the evening. When designing your outdoor kitchen, choose materials to hold up against the elements and organize all your grilling accessories. You can also add an island to give extra counter space or additional seating for larger gatherings.
Install a Water Feature
The soothing sound of water can instantly change the atmosphere in your backyard. Installing a fountain, waterfall, or pond will add a peaceful element to your staycation destination. Smaller fountains are easy to install and require little maintenance, while larger water features may require the help of a professional. Whatever type you choose, your water feature will be the perfect addition to your staycation destination.
Choose Low-Maintenance Flora
If you don’t have a green thumb, there are plenty of beautiful, artificial or low-maintenance plants that even the most novice gardener can handle. Consider adding hardy perennials like daylilies, coneflowers, and lavender to your flower beds. These flowers come back year after year with very little upkeep required on your part. For those who want instant gratification, consider adding annuals like impatiens, petunias, and marigolds, as they’ll bloom all season long with just a little water and care.
There’s no need to wait for warmer weather to start planning your staycation. With a bit of imagination and these five tips, you can turn your backyard into the outdoor oasis of your dreams today.
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