Versatile outdoor living and gardening

Almost everyone who enjoys “the good life” includes entertaining friends and family outdoors on a patio, porch, veranda, or deck in their lifestyle. Over the last few decades the craze to spend more quality time outside has grown and the days of randomly placed cheap lawn chairs around a plastic folding table are long gone. The trend to carefully plan and furnish the backyard has inspired designers to create new and exciting elements that can make any barbecue a memorable event.

Transforming a garden patch into a revitalizing retreat is really no different from re-organizing any living area within a home, with the exception of a few walls, of course. Utilizing the same designer principles as indoors, a backyard’s appeal can change drastically by laying a different floor, adding extra lighting, accessorizing and picking furniture that suits your needs. There are countless ways for every budget to improve and beautify any outdoor living area and it can start with simple alterations, like adding arched arbors framing a paved trail or setting up a row of large terracotta planters filled with bright red geraniums to edge a patio. Surrounded by a blanket of star jasmine, a rustic bench tucked against an old brick wall will blend in and if you are looking for a stunning, yet tranquil focal point you may want to consider a strategically placed waterfall or fountain.

Jacuzzis and pools are a focal point for backyard parties. Border a vibrant deck with lush leafy foliage to soften the area. Monumental water spouting sculptures shaped like an animal or mermaid can bring an extra cooling element to your outdoors. If that is not your cup of tea, there is a plentitude of other wonderful cast stone fountains, magnificent statues and extraordinary carvings on the market and you can rest assured that you will find the perfect ornament to decorate that special courtyard niche.

With built-in barbecues, cooking outdoors is a real pleasure. Designer grilling stations come equipped with the same luxury as indoor kitchens. They may include storage cabinets, shelves, a fridge, running water and a sink, utensil holders and hooks, trash compartments and lighting options. Brightly painted wood chairs for your sitting area are not only useful, but can also help you determine where to put that easy-to-open and adjustable umbrella, which will not only provide extra color but also wonderful shade.

To sum up all the plans, designs and principles that can make your garden the most versatile area in your home is impossible. It will be up to you to decide if you want a complete overhaul or just make a few adjustments. All I can do is wish you good luck in your venture to create that sanctuary that will bring peace and tranquility to you, your family and your guests.