More than 2 years of ‘pandemic living’ has taught us many things – one of them being that there is no place like home. As people spent more time at home, many realized they weren’t truly making the most of their space. From 2020 until now, there has been a huge uptick in those wishing to expand their living from indoors to outside. What was once a simple deck or patio now trends toward spaces that incorporate covered sitting areas, screened in rooms, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and even Zen-like sitting gardens. Whether your goal is quiet meditative grounding or throwing the best neighborhood party ever, there are exciting opportunities with creative hardscaping, landscaping, and outdoor structures.
Trend: Taking in the View / Tip: Take Notes on Your View Throughout the Seasons
If you are fortunate enough to live on a property with a view, don’t just enjoy it from your windows – create a space outdoors where you can enjoy it in both warm and cool weather. Here in Maryland, we get to enjoy beauty in all four seasons – plan your space to enjoy them all!
To ensure that you get the most out of your view, take notes on how your scenery changes with the seasons. Also note where the sun rises and sets. If you’re lucky enough to have a great sunrise or sunset view, plan your outdoor space accordingly. Situate seating areas so that furniture will look great positioned in the right spots to enjoy all that your yard has to offer. Outdoor spaces with covered areas (maybe even retractable walls!) can be cooled and heated with fans and propane heaters. If you live on a hill or in a location that tends to be windy, consider the best ways to position items in your space to help block the wind. If you’re incorporating a television, plan to situate it so that you will have minimal direct sun reflecting on it.
Trend: Creating an Oasis / Tip: Choose Your Landscaping Wisely
No matter what its size, your backyard offers opportunities for you to create your own private oasis. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor space to do your morning yoga, get lost in a good book, or simply enjoy your surrounding wildlife and nature, outdoor spaces can be designed to suit your needs. The key to creating your oasis will likely be choosing the right landscaping. One consideration is wildlife. Knowing which plants and flower attract which birds, wildlife and insects will make or break your outdoor enjoyment! Another consideration size of your foliage at maturation. Perennials in early stages can be deceptive. Many perennials can grow to be well over 6 feet tall. That is great for privacy, but if you’re looking to maintain a view, not so much! You should also consider how much watering and maintenance your landscaping will require each season.
Trend: Enjoying Television Outdoors / Tip: Location, Location, Location
What’s better than enjoying that big game? Enjoying it with a cold beer at your very own outdoor bar! As technology progresses, manufacturers are offering TV’s made specifically for outdoor use. While you probably don’t want to hang your TV in a place that gets direct rain or sweltering sun, outdoor televisions are built to withstand the elements. And while you can pay over $20K for an enormous 86″ outdoor TV, you can find models over 40″ under $1400. To ensure that you get the most out of your outdoor TV viewing experience, you’ll want to pay close attention to where it’s located. Many models specify use in full shade only, while others also work well in partial and even full sun. Most people choose to locate their outdoor televisions under cover both for watching enjoyment as well as protection.
What’s Your Outdoor Living Space Vision?
No matter if you have your grand plan all mapped out or don’t have a clue where to begin, the outdoor living area experts at Chesapeake Landscape Group can help. Our seasoned pros have the knowledge and experience to create your next amazing space. From hardscapes and outdoor kitchens to lush landscaping, we’re here to make your outdoor area the best it can be.
