YOUR BACKYARD RETREAT: OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST

With summer on the way, it’s finally time for fun in the sun! Studies have shown that there are many physical and mental health benefits of spending time immersed in the great outdoors. In the last year, more than 90 percent of people with outdoor living space have been spending more time on their patios and porches, enjoying their outdoor living space more than ever before. For those looking to relax, entertain, grill or garden, having your own backyard retreat is a must.

It seems that everything is better outdoors with warmer weather. Gone are backyards of the past with stackable plastic chairs, a grill and some colorful flowers blooming on the side of the deck. Now, a loaded deck with an outdoor living room, comfy chairs, twinkle party lights, a full kitchen, bar, island, firepit and even a television are found throughout the First Coast. When choosing furniture for your outdoor space explore options such as wrought iron, cast iron, aluminum or even traditional wood. If your furniture is not kept under a cover or a patio enclosure or lanai, synthetic weatherproof patio furniture with durable fabrics is available to stand up to the elements. By adding a lanai, patio cover, awning or screen enclosure, your furniture will have some protection from direct exposure to the elements whether it’s sunny or rainy. It can even provide some privacy from neighbors. By bringing the indoors outside, homeowners can satisfy one of their top wants by turning simple living spaces into their favorite part of the home, complete with all the comforts of the indoors at their fingertips. With more than 31 years of experience, Lifetime Enclosures in Jacksonville is one of the top choices First Coast residents look to when renovating their outdoor space with lanais, outdoor kitchens, sunrooms, screen enclosures and more.

When planning your outdoor living room, think about creating different rooms. Imagining furniture for the sitting area will help with building a deck or patio large enough to accommodate your wants. Families may even want to create a kid’s outdoor playroom complete with a playset and even a garden. If you are adding an outdoor kitchen to the mix, include a sink, enough counter space to cook and lighting so you aren’t left in the dark.

Planting various flowers, plants and shrubs can add splashes of color as well. From a simple herb garden in a planter to a small patch of tomatoes, peppers or other easy-to-grow veggies, gardening can be a fun and rewarding use of outdoor space. For some backyards, a hardscape area is another good option to spruce up the space. Edging hardscape areas with ground covers and low-growing plants can soften the edges and bring more color and life to the area.

Whether it’s for relaxation, entertainment or play, your yard is an extension of your indoor living space, so make it as warm and inviting as you do your home. All aspects of home improvement require planning and time, so enlist a professional such as Lifetime Enclosures to make your vision and plan into reality. With free estimates, these professionals can create your own personal retreat that can be enjoyed for years to come.