cozy at home magazine August 2023

Planning Your Outdoor Space

Before the first shovel hits the dirt, planning your outdoor space is a crucial first step in transforming your backyard into an oasis Start by assessing the size, shape, and terrain of your yard Consider the sun ' s path as it will affect the placement of certain elements like dining areas and plants. Also, take into account any existing features that you want to incorporate into your new design, such as mature trees or a slope that could be turned into a beautiful garden.

The next step is to define the purpose of your outdoor space. Are you looking to create a cozy spot for family gatherings, a peaceful retreat, or a playful area for children? Perhaps you want a combination of these? Keep in mind the practical aspects too, like storage for garden tools or space for a BBQ grill. The purpose will guide the design and help you prioritize features in your plan.

Finally, sketch out your ideas or use a digital design tool to create a layout. This will help you visualize your plan and make any necessary adjustments before you start the work. It's a good idea to start with larger elements like patios or decks, and then move to smaller details like plants and accessories. Remember, this is your oasis – let your creativity shine and make it a place where you'll love spending time.

Choosing the Right Patio Furniture

Creating the perfect patio starts with choosing the right furniture. The selection will largely depend on the purpose of your outdoor space. If it's meant for dining and entertaining, consider investing in a quality dining set. For a lounge area, comfortable seating like couches, chairs, and a coffee table will make the space inviting. Always take measurements of your patio before you shop to ensure the furniture fits well and allows for easy movement.

When selecting outdoor furniture, durability should be a top priority Materials need to withstand varying weather conditions while maintaining their aesthetics Teak, eucalyptus, and metal are popular choices for their resilience and longevity. Also, pay attention to the quality of cushions and fabrics. Look for cushions that are waterproof and UV-resistant, and fabrics that are easy to clean and faderesistant.

Lastly, personalize your patio with accessories. Add outdoor rugs to define areas and bring color and texture to your space. Pillows can provide additional comfort and a pop of color. Consider elements like an umbrella for shade or a fire pit for cooler nights. Remember, your patio is an extension of your home, so let your personal style guide your choices. Make it a place where you can relax, enjoy, and create wonderful memories.

Outdoor Lighting Ideas

As the sun sets, your backyard can transition from a sunny oasis to a magical night-time retreat with the right outdoor lighting. Start by identifying the key areas you want to illuminate. Pathways, patios, or decks should be prioritized for safety, while highlighting certain features like trees, water features, or architectural details can add drama and depth to your landscape.

There's a wide range of lighting options available to suit different needs and aesthetics For functional areas like outdoor kitchens or dining spaces, opt for brighter, task-oriented lights like pendant lights or spotlights For a more ambient feel, string lights, lanterns, or LED candles can create a warm, cozy atmosphere. Solar-powered or LED lights can be a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option for garden paths and other landscape features.

When planning your outdoor lighting, consider using a variety of light sources and levels to create a layered effect. This can help avoid harsh shadows and make your outdoor space feel more spacious and inviting. Additionally, incorporating a dimmer or timer can provide flexibility and control over the intensity and duration of your lighting, creating the perfect mood for any occasion. So, as the sun sets, let your backyard shine and enjoy the tranquility of your outdoor oasis under the stars.

Plants That Thrive in Your Backyard

Cultivating a garden can be a rewarding part of creating your backyard oasis. However, not all plants are created equal when it comes to their suitability for your garden. Start by understanding your local climate and soil conditions. This will help you select plants that can thrive in your backyard. Native plants are often a good choice as they are adapted to local conditions and can support local wildlife.

Next, consider the specific microclimates in your backyard Are there areas that get full sun, partial shade, or full shade? Some plants thrive in sunny spots, while others prefer the cool of the shade. Also, take into account the watering needs of different plants. Grouping together plants with similar water and sun needs can make maintenance easier and more efficient.

Lastly, think about the aesthetic you want to achieve. Do you prefer a wild, natural look or a more manicured garden? Would you like a color-themed garden or one that provides interest all year round? Consider also including a variety of plant types – trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals – for a diverse and interesting garden. With some planning and care, your garden can become a vibrant part of your backyard oasis, providing beauty, relaxation, and even a habitat for local wildlife.

Tips for Outdoor Cooking and Dining

The allure of alfresco dining is undeniable, and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen can elevate your backyard into an entertaining haven. When planning your outdoor kitchen, first determine your cooking needs and habits. Are you an avid griller, or do you envision preparing full meals outdoors? The answer will guide your choices in appliances, from a simple barbecue grill to a fully functional setup with a cooktop, oven, and refrigerator.

In addition to cooking appliances, consider your workspace A prep area with a durable countertop and a sink can make outdoor cooking more convenient Storage for cooking tools and outdoor dinnerware can also be a valuable addition. Choose materials that can withstand the elements and are easy to clean, such as stainless steel or concrete.

Don't forget about the dining area. Ideally, it should be close to the kitchen, but positioned in a way to avoid smoke from the grill. Consider a large table for family dinners or a bar-style seating for casual get-togethers. Comfortable chairs, a shade-providing umbrella or pergola, and outdoor heaters for cooler evenings can make the space welcoming throughout the year. With careful planning and thoughtful design, your outdoor kitchen can become the heart of your backyard oasis, offering a delightful space for cooking, dining, and making memories.

Building a Fire Pit

There's something profoundly comforting about gathering around a fire pit on a cool evening. Whether it's for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, or simply enjoying the warmth, a fire pit can be a magical addition to your backyard oasis. When planning for a fire pit, safety should be your primary concern. Choose a location that is away from overhanging trees, bushes, or any flammable structures. Ensure the area is flat and stable to prevent any accidental tipping of the fire pit.

When it comes to choosing the type of fire pit, you have a few options. Woodburning fire pits give you the crackling sound and smoky scent of a traditional campfire, while propane or natural gas fire pits offer a clean-burning, smokeless alternative The style and material of your fire pit should complement your overall outdoor aesthetic Rustic styles might use natural stone or brick, while modern designs could incorporate stainless steel or concrete

No fire pit is complete without comfortable seating. Arranging outdoor chairs or benches around the fire pit creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding weatherproof cushions for extra comfort and decorative throw blankets for cooler nights. And remember, while a fire pit can provide warmth and light, it also offers something more intangible: a sense of togetherness. So, gather your loved ones, light up the fire pit, and enjoy the cozy ambiance of your backyard oasis.

Water Features: From Ponds to Fountains

Water features can add a dynamic and serene element to your backyard oasis. They serve not only as a visual treat but also create soothing sounds that can drown out city noise and help create a more tranquil outdoor environment Before you decide on a water feature, consider the size of your backyard, your budget, and the amount of maintenance you ' re willing to undertake.

Among the many options, ponds can make a delightful addition, especially if you ' re interested in creating a mini ecosystem with fish and aquatic plants. They require some work to keep clean, but the beauty they add can be worth the effort. For a lower-maintenance option, consider a fountain. Fountains come in various styles, from modern, geometric designs to more traditional, ornate ones.

They can serve as a focal point in your garden, patio, or even a smaller courtyard. Another attractive water feature is a waterfall, which can be combined with a pond or stand on its own, cascading down a rock feature. If space is at a premium, a wall fountain or a tabletop fountain can be an excellent choice. Whichever water feature you choose, be sure to place it where it can be seen and heard from your outdoor seating areas. This way, you can fully enjoy the tranquility it brings to your outdoor living space.

Bird Feeders & Butterflies

Inviting wildlife into your backyard can bring a new level of joy and vibrancy to your outdoor living space. Birds flitting about and butterflies adding splashes of color can make your backyard feel like a living painting. To attract these delightful visitors, consider adding bird feeders and cultivating a butterfly garden.

Bird feeders are a simple and effective way to attract a variety of birds to your backyard Consider different types of feeders and seeds to attract different species Tube feeders with sunflower seeds, for example, are favored by finches and chickadees, while suet feeders can attract woodpeckers and nuthatches. Remember to place the feeders in a quiet, safe location, away from the reach of predators and close enough to trees or shrubs that can offer a quick refuge for the birds.

Butterfly gardens, on the other hand, require a bit more planning. Butterflies are attracted to nectar-producing flowers, so include a variety of such plants that bloom at different times to provide a consistent food source. Certain plants like milkweed and aster also serve as host plants for caterpillars. Don't forget to provide sunny spots for butterflies to warm their wings and shallow water sources for them to drink. With a bit of planning and care, your backyard can become a haven for these beautiful creatures, offering you endless opportunities to observe and enjoy nature's wonders.