At Grounded Landscape Designs, we believe your backyard has the potential to be an extension of your living area, a haven for relaxation and recreation. However, creating a dream outdoor living space doesn’t happen overnight. It requires a touch of pre-season planning to ensure your yard is primed for summer fun. Here’s how to get started and transform your backyard into a space that perfectly reflects your lifestyle and desires.
1. Define Your Dream:
The first step is to envision how you want to use your outdoor area. Here, some introspection comes in handy.
- Craving a Tranquil Space? Do you long for a space that offers peace and solitude? Perhaps you dream of a secluded patio where you can enjoy a steaming cup of coffee in the morning and stargaze at night. This vision might call for comfortable lounge chairs, a small waterfall feature for calming sounds, and strategically placed plants that create a sense of privacy.
- Are You Entertaining? Do you envision hosting BBQs and gatherings for family and friends? In this case, prioritize an outdoor kitchen, spacious outdoor seating areas, an open layout, and features that facilitate entertaining like an outdoor fire pit.
- Family Time Fun? Do you have a family with children or pets who need room to run and play? This might involve creating designated play zones with soft surfaces, installing a playset, or adding a designated dog run. It’s important to prioritize safety by having the right fencing and providing shade for longer playtimes in the heat.
- Multi-Purpose? Perhaps your dream space is a versatile area that caters to various needs. Maybe you want a designated relaxation area with a hammock and a separate space for entertaining. Or a section off an area for a swimming pool. Don’t be afraid to section off different zones within your backyard. Strategic plant placement, walkways, or even decorative screens can help define areas while maintaining an open and flowing feel.
2. Embrace the Elements:
Colorado has a beautiful climate that allows for year-round outdoor enjoyment. When designing your dream space, consider features that extend your living space into the cooler months:
- Fire Up the Fun: Think about incorporating a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace. These features create a warm and inviting atmosphere on chilly evenings, encouraging nights spent roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
- Seek Shelter from the Weather: While Colorado doesn’t experience excessive rain, it’s wise to factor in occasional summer showers. Consider a covered patio or pergola. This provides shade during the hottest part of the day and offers protection from unexpected downpours, ensuring your outdoor fun can continue uninterrupted.
- Sun Smart Designs: Colorado is known for its sunshine, but too much can be a bit intense. Consider strategic shade solutions like a pergola or awning. This allows you to enjoy the outdoors during peak sunshine hours without overheating.
3. Spruce Up Your Backyard Space:
- Nature’s Touch: Create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere with colorful plants and flowers. Choose native and drought-resistant varieties suitable for Colorado’s climate. This reduces the need for constant watering and ensures your plants thrive with minimal maintenance. Consider incorporating low-maintenance flowering shrubs like butterfly bushes or lavender, which not only look beautiful but also attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Lighting Up the Night: Soft outdoor lighting can set the mood for a relaxing evening. String lights, lanterns, or solar path lights add ambiance and illuminate your space after dark. Consider using different lighting colors to create various moods. Warm white lights create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cooler blue or green tones offer a more modern feel.
4. Comfort is Key:
Investing in comfortable outdoor furniture is crucial. Choose weather-resistant pieces that complement your design aesthetic and provide ample cozy seating for you and your guests. Wicker furniture provides a classic and relaxed look, while sleek metal or modern plastic options offer a contemporary feel. Don’t forget comfort! Opt for cushions with water-resistant fabrics that are easy to clean.
5. Personalize Your Space:
Add pops of color and personality with throw pillows and outdoor rugs. Choose patterns and colors that reflect your style and tie your design together. Place colorful pillows on your lounge chairs or incorporate a vibrant outdoor rug under your dining area. Accessorize with decorative potted plants, sculptures, or wind chimes to add a touch of whimsy and create a space that truly feels like your own.
Bringing Your Outdoor Space to Life
While DIY projects can be rewarding, creating a dream outdoor living space often benefits from professional expertise. Here’s where Grounded Landscape Designs comes in:
- Expertise You Can Trust: Our team of experienced landscape designers possesses a deep understanding of Colorado’s climate, local flora, and construction techniques. We can help you navigate plant selection, suggest creative hardscaping elements like patios or walkways, and ensure your dream design aligns with your budget and property limitations.
- A Collaborative Approach: Grounded Landscape Designs offers a unique 4-hour consultation specifically for homeowners who struggle to envision their yard’s potential. This affordable option includes a site visit to understand your goals and limitations, followed by a review of project photos to identify your design preferences. Lead designer Scott uses this information to create a conceptual design sketch within the 4-hour timeframe, which you get to keep free of charge.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Our skilled team guarantees meticulous execution of your design plan. We use high-quality materials and prioritize sustainable practices to ensure your outdoor living space is beautiful, durable, and environmentally friendly.
Start Creating Your Dream Backyard Today!
Summer is a fleeting season, and you deserve an outdoor space that allows you to make the most of it. Contact Grounded Landscape Designs today to schedule your consultation. Let’s discuss your vision and explore the possibilities of transforming your backyard into the outdoor space of your dreams.
We look forward to working with you and helping you create the perfect backyard for summer fun, relaxation, and lasting memories with loved ones.
