CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – The official start of summer is just a few days away, but the weather we’ve been having may suggest otherwise. Summertime brings us longer days with plenty of outdoor time. So, grab your besties and enjoy a day away in your own backyard with a few simple ideas for turning your outdoor space into an extension of your indoor living space.
Get All Lit Up
Outdoor spaces can be enjoyed day or night with ample lighting. According to the International Casual Furnishings Association, outdoor lighting is a priority for those renovating their outdoor spaces. Effective lighting not only illuminates entertaining areas but also enhances safety and security. Consider using string lights, lanterns, pathway lights, and spotlights to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
Increase Privacy
Privacy is essential for comfortable outdoor living. Options for increasing privacy include installing wood or vinyl fencing or creating a natural fence with closely planted hedges. Privacy measures ensure residents can swim, relax, or star gaze in private, regardless of how friendly they are with their neighbors.
Address the Elements
Understanding the direction your backyard faces and the typical conditions it experiences is crucial.
For instance: Southwest-facing yards may need shade solutions like trees, covered patios, or arbors to reduce glare and heat. Windy areas can benefit from strategic planting of trees or bushes as windbreaks to create a more comfortable environment.
Sit Comfortably
Investing in high-quality, comfortable seating increases the likelihood that homeowners will spend more time in their outdoor spaces. Consider a deep seating set with plush chairs, an outdoor sofa, love seat, and chaise lounge chairs. Comfortable seating encourages relaxation and prolonged outdoor enjoyment.
Take a Dip
A pool or spa can enhance outdoor living spaces significantly. Pools provide a perfect gathering spot on warm days, while spas or hot tubs offer relaxation benefits, including muscle relaxation, joint loosening, improved cardiovascular health, and better sleep quality, according to the Family Handyman.
Bite Back at Bugs
Bugs can be a major nuisance in outdoor spaces. Hiring a professional exterminator to manage ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects can make outdoor areas more enjoyable. Additionally, consider using natural repellents, bug zappers, or citronella candles to keep pests at bay.
Spending more time outdoors can be a delightful experience with the right enhancements. By focusing on lighting, privacy, addressing environmental elements, investing in comfortable seating, incorporating water features, and controlling bugs, homeowners can create inviting and enjoyable outdoor living spaces.