Designing Outdoor Living Areas for Entertainment
The popularity of outdoor living areas is surging, and you don’t want to get left behind. Kentucky homeowners enjoy spending time in nature, soaking up the beauty of wildlife and landscaping. They design outdoor living spaces for entertainment, relaxation, and more.
You can, too. Let’s explore how:
Understand Your Outdoor Living Areas
You can’t build anything if you don’t know what you’re working with. So, begin by measuring the available space on your lawn for outdoor living. Do you need to clear debris, expand hardscaping, or create retaining walls somewhere? This step will help you find out.
Ensure a harmonious layout by strategically planning your lawn and landscape design. Use clues from your lifestyle and social circle to develop a comprehensive blueprint. Then, consult local landscaping and hardscaping experts to finalize the concept.
Designing for Function and Aesthetics
Balancing form and function is essential, especially when the entire neighborhood is watching. Your job is to create a welcoming atmosphere accommodating everyone on your guest list. From winding pathways to gorgeous gardens, pick features that make sense and make a statement.
TIP: Consider installing fire pits or landscape lighting to illuminate patios, stairways, and other essential hardscaping.
Essential Features for Outdoor Living Areas in Kentucky
Some features create an outdoor living space, while others make it an eye-catching entertainment space. Explore the key components to develop a fun and functional spot outside. Discuss the pros and cons of building outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and other features to blend with your home’s aesthetic.
Here are # ideas to consider:
#1. Outdoor Kitchens
Culinary delights are just for inside the house. Select durable, weather-resistant appliances, countertops, cabinetry, storage, and seating to create an outdoor kitchen that wows the crowd. Check for furniture arrangement and decoration tips to make it pop or celebrate special occasions.
FACT: Outdoor kitchens let homeowners entertain guests without tracking dirt and debris inside the house.
#2. Landscape Lighting
Lighting up your landscape can significantly impact your outdoor living areas. Lights provide beauty and safety, allowing guests to explore their surroundings. Simple features like string lights and lanterns can make a noticeable difference in how enjoyable the evening entertainment is.
FACT: The right lighting can set the mood for an outdoor event or gathering without additional decor.
#3. Seasonal Adaptations
Adapt outdoor living spaces to your lifestyle and traditions throughout different seasons. For example, use patio heaters and blankets to stay warm outside in winter. Or incorporate critical elements like fans and shade during summer.
TIP: Have your landscaper describe ways to blend landscaping features like retaining walls and shrub lines to help block sun and wind.
Tips for Budgeting and Planning Your Build
Planning an outdoor living space to build or redesign can be daunting. Many factors must be considered when planning; multiple factors can change before the project ends. Determine the variables before going forward.
Evaluate the pros and cons of doing work yourself versus hiring someone. Professional hardscapers can navigate property issues and design problems without causing damage or increasing construction costs. Inquire about the necessary steps like excavation, drainage, and lawn maintenance requirements to calculate a reasonable estimate.
Phased implementation is your best bet. In other words, take your project one step at a time to identify issues and fix them before continuing. Unforeseen problems are common, but planning and budgeting can help mitigate the surprises.
Conclusion
Kentucky homeowners can get ahead of the curve as the trend of creating outdoor living areas for entertainment continues expanding into other states. Decide what you want to do outside, talk to loved ones, and consult professionals for a practical design.