After a long winter and a cold, wet spring, it’s safe to say we’re all hoping to spend most of the summer outdoors. In fact, we wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve spent the last six months dreaming of the perfect summer escape. For many, that space is in the comfort of their own backyard.
Now that the weather is finally turning around, it’s time to bring that dream to life. Consider incorporating these 5 trends into your backyard to ensure you make the most of our short but sweet summers.
Low Maintenance Landscapes
By the time the weather finally turns (and stays) warm, you’ll want to get outside without delay. The more time you take getting your backyard back into shape, the less time you’ll be able to spend relaxing outdoors. The most obvious way to create a low-maintenance backyard is to invest in some non-living features. Consider adding a large deck or patio made out of composite, interlock, or concrete. These inorganic materials will ensure you get maximum usage of your outdoor space without the hassle of maintenance or upkeep. If you’re curious about any of these options, have a pro come by for a consultation.
If you prefer a greener look, with the right help, a lush lawn can also be surprisingly low maintenance. After hiring a landscape company specializing in lawn maintenance to take care of seasonal tasks, have a pro come by and install an irrigation system so your lawn stays hydrated without you giving it a second thought. Many lawn maintenance businesses offer affordable packages for the summer season, letting you relax while the pros take care of your lawn.
Outdoor Dining Areas
If there’s one thing Canadians love to do during the summer, it’s dining al-fresco. Instead of trekking to the nearest patio, this year consider adding an area for outdoor dining to your backyard. Using a small deck or a section of interlock, you can quickly create an area offset from the rest of your yard perfect for enjoying a meal. Have a pro design a pergola or small privacy fence to create a secluded space. After adding a dining area to your backyard, you’ll never want to eat out again.
Outdoor Firepits & Fire Tables
After you’ve finished your meal in your new outdoor dining area, you and your guests can retreat to your firepit to enjoy the last rays of the sun. Outdoor firepits are low maintenance, aesthetically pleasing, and don’t take up a ton of space, making them a fantastic addition to any backyard. These features are particularly popular in Canada, where having an outdoor heat source means you get to spend an extra few weeks enjoying your backyard. Whether you choose a natural, gas or electric model, this addition will require a specific set-up and the help of a pro.
Outdoor Lighting
If you haven’t noticed, this year’s trends are all about extending your living space outdoors, and every living space needs lighting. Many homeowners have installed outdoor lighting for practical purposes and to create ambience. An electrician can design a lighting scheme that will make your backyard just as versatile as your indoor floorplan. The best part? You won’t have to head indoors after sunset, allowing you to spend an extra few hours outside.
Water Features
The last big backyard trend for summer 2019 is adding a water feature. This small addition will not only be impressive to look at but also create white noise – especially important for city backyards. From pools to fountains to ponds, there are so many options to choose from. Of course, some of these are fairly extensive projects, so discuss with a pro which options suit your budget and backyard. Whether it’s the sound of a dive or just some running water, you won’t regret having a little bit of ambient noise to drown out the sound of your neighbour’s dog barking.
Summer is on the horizon, making now the perfect time to get ahead start and have any number of these trendy projects added to your backyard. Your yard will be the talk of the neighbourhood, especially after hosting your first outdoor dinner party. Get started with the help of a pro today.
