Outdoor spaces hold such potential for enriching daily living through relaxation, entertainment, and connection with nature right outside the door. So, why not make them comfy and enjoyable?

According to a report from the National Association of Realtors, around 92% of their members stated a higher demand for exterior remodeling. This increased interest in home improvement translates into 68% of homeowners feeling more inclined to spend time within their homes.

Ready to unleash your dream outdoor space? Let’s create a haven that reflects your lifestyle and personality.

1. Build a patio

A patio extends your living area and is a perfect spot to unwind, chill out, or simply enjoy the view while savoring fresh air. Whether it’s a quiet morning coffee, a leisurely afternoon read, or an evening spent stargazing, a well-designed patio can transform ordinary moments into memorable experiences.

When building your patio, first consider the intended uses. Will it primarily serve as a dining area, a lounge space, or a combination of both? Visualizing how you’ll use the space will help you plan its layout and features to best suit your preferences.

Next, choose patio materials. You can opt for wood for a natural look, concrete for a smooth finish, or bricks and tiles for more creative designs. Make sure to select materials that don’t need a lot of upkeep and can handle bad weather.

2. Provide shade or an umbrella

You’re right about the double-edged sword of sunlight. While its golden rays bathe patios in warmth and boost vitamin D levels in the human body, overexposure can have detrimental effects. This is particularly true when the sun is strongest, giving off strong ultraviolet (UV) rays that can lead to sunburn and skin damage.

Considering this factor, it’s a good idea to put some shade in your outdoor area. However, the shade fabric plays a significant role in assuring maximum comfort. For a natural look and airflow, consider heavy-duty knitted shade cloth for your shade sails or umbrellas. This breathable fabric provides excellent sun protection while allowing air to circulate, keeping your patio cool and comfortable.

3. Invest in high-quality furniture

Nothing beats the comfort of sinking into a plush sofa or lounging in a cozy armchair, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Sounds nice, doesn’t it?

Make furniture the main focus of your exterior living space. It provides not only functional seating and dining options but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your yard. You can select materials from teak, cedar, or all-weather wicker, which can withstand various weather conditions while maintaining their visual charm. 

For added comfort, accessorize it with cushions, throw pillows, rugs, and ottomans to create an inviting atmosphere. To make it easier to create your dream outdoor space, consider furniture financing options that allow you to spread out the cost over time.

You may also want to incorporate minimalist shelves to display decorative items such as potted plants, candles, sculptures, or art pieces. Just make sure to place them where they can be admired without obstructing pathways or creating hazards. Optimal locations could include along fence lines, against bare walls, or under-covered areas to protect both the shelves and the displayed items from unpredictable weather.

4. Install good lighting fixtures

Designing an outdoor living area is all about creating an atmosphere that invites enjoyment. And what sets the mood more than the right lighting? Just like a warm hug at the end of a long day, perfect lighting can turn your backyard into an oasis of serenity.

Consider incorporating a variety of lighting fixtures to cater to different activities and preferences. Soft, ambient lighting can create a relaxing ambiance for quiet evenings spent lounging under the stars. In contrast, brighter task lighting can illuminate outdoor cooking and dining areas for lively gatherings and late-night barbecues.

In addition to functionality, don’t underestimate the beauty of decorative lighting. Hanging string lights on a pergola or wrapping them around trees can make your outdoor space feel magical and whimsical. Lanterns can also give a cozy and intimate ambiance to sitting areas. And don’t forget to light up pathways and steps well to avoid accidents and make everyone feel safe.

5.Freshen up your landscaping

Did you know that sprucing up your landscaping can boost your property’s  resale value by 15% to 20%? That’s a substantial increase in potential profit when it comes to selling your home.

Start by evaluating the current landscaping elements on your property. Note healthy plantings and lawns to preserve, along with problem areas needing replacement. Identify turf needing rehabilitation or areas where alternative ground coverings may be more suitable. Well-planned greenery, hardscaping, and amenities can take your yard from lackluster to spectacular.

Key takeaway

Sprucing up your outdoor living spaces not only expands your square footage to enjoy but also heightens the comfort, functionality, and personality of your home. Consider the ideas outlined in this article and you can create a welcoming retreat that you’ll love spending time in year-round.