Having your own home and space is great. You get to do what you want with it, from the floor plan, interior design to how you will use each room. However, over the years, as your family grows, you will find that the space that you have becomes smaller and smaller. Is it time for you to find a new and bigger home?
If you have a yard, you are in luck. You can convert a part of your yard into an outdoor space that you can use. You can use it as your outdoor dining area, living room, entertaining space, and play area for children. A deck or patio and high-quality outdoor tables and outdoor chairs can give you a relaxing place to hang out in when your home becomes a bit stifling, and you need to feel some sun and fresh air on your skin.
What Makes Outdoor Living Spaces A Must
Outdoor spaces are wonderful for so many reasons. For instance, functional outdoor living space can increase your property’s value should you decide to sell it in the future.
- It is good for your health.
Being outside, under the sun, breathing fresh air has many health benefits. It is good for your memory; it is a great mood booster and is wonderful for your mental well-being. Take a break from the harsh fluorescent lights and the glaring screen of your computer. An outdoor space can let you enjoy a piece of nature, even at your own home. You can have a meal, or even work, in your small pocket of nature. Sufficient time outdoors can make you feel less disoriented and lower your stress levels.
- It is a good place to entertain guests.
If you have guests, you can entertain them on your patio or deck. This will give the rest of your family some privacy while they go about their day. It will also make your guest feel less awkward since you will have your own privacy while you talk and discuss matters, without the possibility of your family passing by.
- It gives you a natural backdrop.
If you have a beautiful garden, they can give you a naturally beautiful backdrop. Imagine sipping coffee while looking at your blooming plants. Potted plants, shrubs, and landscape rocks can give you patio a colorful backdrop with some dimensions. Choosing plants that bloom in different seasons can give you a colorful and breathtaking backdrop all year round. Let some climbing ivy wrap on your posts or the fence. You can even divide your patio into two living spaces or create a privacy wall using tall potted plants.
- It lets you save on your bills.
Spending some time in your patio lets you save on your lighting and cooling. Take advantage of the natural light coming from the sun. Give your cooling system a rest and enjoy the outdoor air. It might not be much, but an hour or so done every day can help lower your energy bill.
Things To Consider When Designing Your Outdoor Living Space
Before you call your trusted contractor, here are some things that you should figure out:
1. What will the additional space be for?
The purpose of your outdoor living space will dictate what you will build. Will a deck be perfect for it or a patio? Will you need a small garden shed for what you have in mind?
2. What are the features that you want it to have?
This will go hand in hand with the first step. If your patio or deck is for entertainment, you can bedeck it with outdoor lights, chairs, tables, and benches. If it’s for your relaxation, you can add a pool and some lounge chairs. You might want an outdoor dining area, so you should set it up with an outdoor dining table and stools with a small bar.
3. What’s the weather in your location like?
Your location will dictate various things in your outdoor living space. If your place is prone to heavy rains or snowfall, you’d want to protect your deck or patio, as well as your furniture. To be safe, you can consider using weather-proof materials to ensure that your outdoor space will last long despite extreme weather conditions.
4. How private do you want it to be?
Depending on your neighborhood, you might need to consider the privacy of your outdoor space. Of course, this will depend on your sensitivity. If you are in a community where homes are fenced, you might have no issues or qualms about your privacy.
5. How much are you willing to spend?
Many attributes of your patio or deck will depend on how much you have. It is best to determine how much budget you can spare so that you can decide on the size, materials, and design of your outdoor space.
Outdoor rooms and living spaces are a great way to expand your functional floor space. You can consider hiring a designer who can help you plan a stylish, comfortable, and relaxing space.