Our Favorite Backyard Makeover Ideas
As Summer comes to a close and the cooler air of Fall happens upon us, now is the time to start planning a backyard makeover for next year’s summer enjoyment. Outdoor space has vastly become an essential element of a luxury home’s floorplan. Forward-thinking architects are now drawing in an outdoor layout to round out their home designs as consumers have come to expect this type of extended living space in new-build homes. As the trend for outdoor spaces continues to grow and evolve, new ideas, products and materials are also coming to light. Below are a few of our favorite ideas for a backyard makeover.
Fire Features
The most popular and desired outdoor design element continues to be a fire pit or fireplace, according to the 2018 Residential Landscape Architecture Trends Survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). Year over year, fire features have come out on top and we agree that a fire pit, fireplace or fire bowl is an essential component of the perfect backyard oasis. Fire features provide warmth and a cozy space to gather and watch the flames or roast marshmallows with the kids. Now, we’re even seeing fire and water features combined to create a stunning centerpiece. The Evolution 360 Fire and Water feature by Hearth Products Controls is a premier example of an artful fire and water design feature, available for around $10,060.00.
Luxurious Lighting
Ranking second among landscape architects as another popular outdoor expectation is lighting. Of course, the only way to enjoy the backyard at night is if it is well-lit, so proper lighting is crucial. Landscape lighting can be in-ground or above-ground to create a focal point on trees and plant-life or light up a walkway. Tower lights are also a beautiful way to turn lighting into a design feature, standing a few feet tall and brightening the immediate area. From wall lights to well lights, there are a plethora of different lighting options for illuminating your backyard. We love the step lights that WAC Lighting introduced to their LEDme line, which easily retrofit into standard junction boxes and spotlight outdoor stairs, available for around $107.50 per light.
Seating and Eating
Another obvious fundamental aspect of the perfect backyard is enough seating and a space to dine on the delicious food fresh from the grill. With enough room, there can be several different seating areas scattered throughout the yard. From cozying up around the firepit, to gathering around the dining table, to sunning poolside, a host of seating options makes for the perfect entertaining set-up. One of our favorite lines is CB2, with its simple, clean design. The Grove Hanging Loveseat Swing is a sweet addition to a covered patio and is available for $1,299.00, among other contemporary pieces in their outdoor collection.
