Outdoor Oasis: Creating the Perfect Backyard for Summer

Summertime is the best time to create the perfect outdoor oasis in your backyard. Having a space you can enjoy, alone and with friends and family, is so important. By changing just a few things in your backyard, you can create the perfect oasis to enjoy all summer long.

Add Privacy to Your Backyard

Although your neighbors may be lovely, they do not need to see everything going on in your backyard. Having a little privacy makes your yard feel more like an extension of your home. Add tasteful touches of greenery, trellises, and outdoor screens to easily make your backyard a little more private. You can even kill two birds with one stone by planting greenery that repels mosquitoes. It’s a win-win.

Ward Off Unwanted Bugs

Speaking of mosquitoes, the key to having an outdoor oasis is to have a space where you feel comfortable. Part of that includes getting rid of unwanted bugs. Planting herbs is a good start, but there are some other measures you can also take. Consider adding some citronella candles around the backyard to light when you’re outside. Get rid of any standing water, as that is where mosquitoes lay their eggs. If you live in an area with ticks, consider adding a wood chip border around your lawn, and mow frequently.

Implement Outdoor Lighting

Nothing screams oasis like a backyard lit up at night with chic outdoor lighting. String lights throughout your backyard, up-lighting under any trees, or lighting lining your landscaping are all great ways to add lighting to your backyard. Not only does this look great, but it also makes your backyard a space that can be enjoyed all hours. If you are hosting, your guests can still see each other, make conversation, and navigate your yard safely. If it’s just you, you can sit on your porch with a drink, a book, or whatever you enjoy and take in your outdoor oasis. Bonus perk: well-lit homes are also much safer from intruders.

Add a Deck or Patio

If you do not already have one, consider adding a small deck or patio. Not only does this make your backyard look nicer, it can increase the value of your home by 8-10%! On your patio, add comfortable furniture that you would spend long periods of time enjoying your new outdoor oasis on. Many designers recommend creating spots for conversation, like circles of chairs or sofas facing each other. If you host many gatherings, this could be a great space to add to your patio.

Add a Fun Touch to the Backyard

This fun touch can be budget-friendly or all-out. The goal here is to create a fun area in your yard that you want to go to. This could be a pool, hot tub, fire pit, play set, hammock, or game area (bocce ball, cornhole, etc.); the possibilities are truly endless. What’s most important is that you pick what makes you happiest. If there are many personalities in the family, you may have two areas, one for games and one for relaxing. Customize your backyard however you see fit.

Add Pops of Color

Color schemes shouldn’t be reserved for in-house only. Decide on a pop of color that you want to incorporate throughout your backyard. Include it through decor like pillows and outdoor rugs, and tie it into the landscaping with flowers. This will make your backyard look cohesive, interesting, and like part of your home instead of a forgotten area.

The most important thing you can do is create a backyard that you will enjoy. By adding privacy and bug-proofing for comfort, you give yourself the space to customize the rest of your backyard however you see fit.

If you want advice on backyards that add value to your home, I can help! Head over to my contact page to get in touch.