Have you recently moved into a new home? Is your backyard looking dated? Are you struggling to turn a big open area into a functional space?
If any of these scenarios apply to you, then it may be time to invest in the landscaping Pakenham residents are relying on to create practical spaces. With the right experts at your side, you’ll soon discover that creating a stylish backyard area is easier and more affordable than you think.
Give Your Outdoor Space a Much-Needed Makeover
Creating a functional space that your family and guests can enjoy doesn’t have to involve intensive renovations. A few simple changes can make a significant difference. Our landscaping experts have compiled a list of the most common changes or additions to consider.
1. Create an Entertainment Area
If you have a reasonably sized, private backyard, it’s a good idea to use one of your corners as an entertainment area. While this sounds like it could send your credit card into a panic, the good news is that you can do it with a few simple steps.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Ask your landscaper to lay down a concrete slab that will serve as the flooring.
- Add a gazebo or pergola as a roof that will not only protect your furniture but provide shade.
- Choose basic, weather-resistant furniture to provide a space for guests to sit. Decorate these with cushions that can easily be removed in rainy weather. Opt for neutral to blend in with the natural feel of your space. Alternatively, bold colours will create a Mediterranean vibe.
- You can choose to add your barbeque to the space, or if your budget allows, create a separate section for this.
- If your budget allows, consider elevating this space and adding garden steps and a timber deck to make this space the focal point of your backyard.
- Add a few large pot plants for decoration.
You can upgrade this space and make it as functional as possible, depending on your budget and your needs. The golden rule here is to ensure that this space remains clutter-free.
2. Add a Water Feature
Your backyard doesn’t only have to be a functional space where you can entertain family and friends. It can also be a spot that offers tranquillity and relaxation. One of the simplest ways to achieve this is by adding a small water feature near an area where you have plants, shrubs, or trees growing.
Even the smallest water feature such as a mini pond, creek, or custom-designed feature will enhance your outdoor space. Not only will this look amazing, but it will create a resort-like feel where you can relax. A water feature is also an effective way to attract birds, bees, and butterflies to your yard, which goes a long way toward creating that oasis feel.
3. Use Garden Art
Another interesting and fun way to take your backyard from drab to fab is to add some garden art. Using options such as etched hardwood posts, painted cypress posts or even upright railway sleepers to create your own unique structures will add a sense of flair to your space. Natural materials are also an excellent way to blend in with the environment.
4. A Fire Pit is a Must
If you enjoy the outdoors, no matter what the weather, it may be a good idea to add a fire pit to your backyard space. Essentially, fire pits are smaller, more contained versions of bonfires. Having a huge fire in a container is considerably safer in a residential area.
With a wide range of shapes, sizes, and designs, you will easily be able to find the type of fire pit that fits in with your unique style. It’s also not uncommon for homeowners to use a small fire pit as a centrepiece in their entertainment area, with seating made of concrete blocks all around.
5. Add the Right Plants
If your backyard is just a piece of grass with nothing else, you will need to add the right plants to add ambience to the space. Speak to your landscaper for suggestions about native plants that will grow best in your area.
Keep in mind that native plants require less maintenance and can easily grow in different pots and containers. If you have a big gazebo, it may also be a good idea to add a few hanging plant baskets. Decorate these to match the theme you’re trying to create in your space.
6. Invest in Solar Lighting
If you’re going to be entertaining guests in the evenings, you will need some quality lighting. Adding solar lighting along the path leading up to your entertainment area and hanging options adorning your gazebo are just two suggestions that will make a huge difference.
Final Thoughts
Giving your backyard space a revamp doesn’t have to break the bank or take months of construction. Speak to your local landscaper to help you design a simple, but functional space by making a bunch of small changes. Once that’s done, it’s all about adding the right garden accessories to add your own unique flair!