How to Create an Outdoor Living Space that Invites Nature In: Top Tips for Eco Design
Outdoor living is the best way to usher in the warmer months and bask in the beauty that is nature, all, of course, without even needing to go on vacation. If your current backyard just looks like a patch of rectangular grass, however, there’s likely not anything particularly inspiring to draw you outside.
That needs to change.
With this guide, you’ll discover practical tips that can help you maximize your outdoor living space with eco-friendly design tips that help you draw the outside in:
Start By Identifying Your Property’s Strong Points
Every property has its strengths and weaknesses. Your property may be on a hill, so your backyard space sits on a tilt, which can make it difficult to design, but also offers you a great view over the area. You may have a naturally large backyard, or already have natural features worth keeping.
Whether it’s the direction of the sun, the view, or even the layout, identifying your backyard’s strengths is a great way to start designing to highlight them. If you have a great view, for example, look into glass fence installation to maximize that view from both inside your home and from your outdoor living space without sacrificing safety. If the previous owners did a great job at landscaping the space, but their actual designs now look dated, work with the layout and update the materials.
Use Evergreen Trees and Bushes to Frame and Add Privacy
The second biggest goal of most backyard designs is to add privacy. No one wants to feel like their neighbors are watching them. To avoid this sensation, use tall (but not broad) trees and bushes. Ideally, these trees or bushes should also be evergreen, as this way they will continue to offer that extra level of privacy throughout the year.
Create Zones
The next step is to create zones. Usually, the outdoor living/dining area is right next to your home for easy access, and is one of the easier zones to lay out. It may be pre-set for you (for example, if your home came with a patio), while other times, you’ll need to make one. While the exact shape is up to you and your preferences, know that more organic shapes can add depth and interest to your backyard, helping you enhance how large the space feels.
Plant with Texture, Height, and Seasons in Mind
As for the plants you choose, consider three things. One, the textures. You’ll ideally want a mix of different foliage and flowers to really draw the eye over and over to make the space feel bigger (it’s also more eco-friendly in that it supports healthy soil balance). You’ll also want to choose different heights. Plant taller plants and flowers near the back to make your flower beds feel bigger and bolder.
Finally, think seasonally. You will want to plant flowers that bloom at different points throughout the summer to keep color in your space. You should also consider your own property’s drainage. If you see a lot of rain build-up, choose water-hungry plants, while those who have seen droughts in their area should go for desert-friendly plants instead.
