Your outdoor living space is probably the closest spot you’ll get to having a daily vacation. It’s primarily designed to be cozy and relaxing, where you can lounge with friends and family.
But this idyllic setup only pans out if you have the necessary elements.
A good outdoor living space comprises sturdy flooring, ample shade, comfortable weather-proof furniture, and greeneries. Add a grill and some cooking and you have yourself the perfect spot for weekend hangouts all year long.
However, you will have to invest in these things.
For example, building a high-quality patio could require a bit of an investment. Nevertheless, it’s going to be worth it, but only if you have it made the best possible way. This is why having a professional contractor build your outdoor living space is always recommended.
On the other hand, if you are a skilled builder, you can turn it into your next big project.
Either way, you’ll need to know the basics of making an excellent outdoor living space. So, to save you from trouble, just check out this guide.
What’s Considered an Outdoor Living Space?
Outdoor living spaces are designated areas outside the main house or building for lounging or gathering, such as a family barbecue. It typically consists of a deck or patio and can include things like furniture, a garden, and even a pool.
Some modern types of outdoor living spaces include weather-resistant dining sets. While others even include televisions, speakers, and other entertainment systems.
Moreover, you can choose to have a completely or partially closed or open outdoor living space depending on the environmental conditions of your home.
Simply put, your outdoor living space is like an extension of your living room and kitchen outside. It’s the perfect area to bask under warm summer weather.
What Do You Need for Outdoor Living?
Creating an outdoor living space requires meticulous planning.
First, you have to consider the size of your backyard. Then, prepare a layout that serves the purpose of your outdoor living space.
For example, if you plan to use your backyard for entertaining or holding dinners and parties, it would be wise to allocate ample open space.
On the other hand, if you’re thinking more of a lounging area, you have to choose the right spot that receives less of the sun’s harsh heat.
If you’re living in a house with multiple floors or levels, you may want to consider building a deck.
But regardless of which type of outdoor living space you want for your backyard, you won’t fail to enjoy it if you have the following elements.
The first part outlines the essential elements of a spectacular outdoor living space. But if you want to take it up a notch, make sure you check our optional but undoubtedly brilliant additions to your backyard.
Let’s dive right in!
Essential Elements
Patio or Deck
People often interchange a patio with a deck when they are two different parts of your outdoor space.
A patio is directly situated on the ground. It’s a paved area extending from the house or detached from the main building. Patios are often opened with covers that provide shade and breeze. Patios can be just a slab open to the elements or feature a patio cover.
On the other hand, a deck is an elevated outdoor area attached to the house. They can be something you walk directly or into from a kitchen or even an upstairs bedroom.
Both a patio and a deck can include a covered roof. Some examples include a shingled patio cover that matches the house or a pergola that can still let in 50% of the sunshine and fresh air.
If you have a spacious backyard, you can go for a patio. But if you’re living in a small but elevated area, you would want to go for a deck. It would give you access to some view and breeze.
Whichever you prefer, what matters most is that the materials you use to construct your outdoor living space are high quality. Otherwise, it’s money down the drain,
For example, if you’re looking for something affordable and requires low maintenance, you can turn to composite decking. Nowadays, it has become a trend in many houses due to its flexibility and undeniable durability.
Decking products such as those offered by TimberTech are designed to last for decades.
Landscape
Outdoor landscapes add an element of serenity to your backyard. It adds another layer of beauty and comfort for those who love staying in the backyard.
Having a garden or landscape provides closer proximity to nature. In addition, it helps you relax and get settled in your outdoor living space.
You have plenty of choices when it comes to greeneries. Moreover, you could match your landscaping or garden to that of the architectural theme of your house.
For example, if you have a Spanish revival home, you can go for plants like bougainvillea to invoke the atmosphere of Spain.
On the other hand, if your backyard is petite, you can still put up some plants. For example, you can install a vertical garden and fill it with hanging plants or succulents.
Furniture
You can’t simply put any typical living room furniture in your outdoor living space. That’s a general rule of thumb when designing your patio or deck.
Fortunately, there are different furniture sets appropriate for outdoor conditions. For one, they are weather resistant which means they can withstand the harshness of summer’s heat and are able to handle moisture and other sorts of weather.
Nonetheless, the first thing you have to consider when buying outdoor furniture is the ease of maintenance.
Then make sure the pieces you choose are durable. Ensure that the fabrics used in your pillows and sofa can resist mildew and mold growths.
Moreover, if you’re adding a dining set, choose those that don’t break easily under the changing weather. Alfresco dining is always a huge hit for anyone, but it’s the consistency and maintenance you must look after.
Open Areas
Open spaces are like a canvas for any gathering or hosting occasion. If you’re interested in spearheading social activities, a large area for parties is necessary. However, aside from size, the surface is also a critical factor.
With patios, you have plenty of choices when it comes to surfaces. You can just keep your lawn or clear it out, giving way to surfaces made of gravel, flagstone, pavers, cut stone, tile, or pavement.
If you have a deck, the entire structure can be your open space. However, if you plan to add furniture, you can allot a portion for entertaining. When it comes to deck floors, wood or composite floorboards are pretty standard.
Optional Elements
Pool
If you have more than enough budget, you can always add a pool to your outdoor living space. It lets you cool down during the summers and pretty much anytime.
You can opt for an above-the-ground pool, concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass pool.
Not only does it increase the appeal of your outdoor living space, but it also increases the value of your home by 4% to 6%.
Fire Pit
Outdoor living spaces are not just for daytime use. You can also hang out there when evening comes along. But only if you have enough heating. This is where fire pits become helpful.
Imagine having an evening cookout around your fire pit or backyard camping. There’s a lot you can do, and you never have to worry about the cold.
You can choose to build your fire pit or get one of those propane fire pits.
Cooking Area
The backyard is for barbecues and Sunday afternoon gatherings. That’s pretty much what many Americans associate with their outdoor living space.
Hence, it is no surprise that many homeowners designate a cooking area to install a grilling space. This way, you can concentrate all the activities outside, eliminating the need for rigorous use of your kitchen.
Conclusion
An ideal outdoor living space provides nothing short of comfort for anyone using it.
But more than the aesthetic features and the charms brought about by this area, you need to ensure its quality first.
All materials used should be durable and resistant to any type of expected damages.
And in the subject of creating a high-quality outdoor living space, consider hiring professional builders who are skilled and knowledgeable in this type of project.
If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit our home page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.