In The Know

Summer is fast approaching and we’re ready to open those windows and let our homes breathe again! It’s almost time for barbeque season, reading on the deck, pool parties and summer get-togethers! Expanding our living spaces to the outdoors is a great way to utilize every inch our home offers inside and out. Create your dream backyard oasis with an outdoor kitchen, bar, dining space, pool, or a shady spot for lounging.

Outdoor Bars, Kitchens, and Eating Areas

An outdoor kitchen makes summer entertaining a breeze because you can prep while entertaining your guests. A basic outdoor kitchen needs a prep station, a fridge, a barbeque, and a seating area. For those looking to go the gourmet route, a smoker and a wood fireplace are excellent additions. Outdoor kitchens are designed with socializing in mind. They’re laid out to facilitate conversation while allowing you to be the height of culinary efficiency. If you have the space for it, consider including both a lounge seating area and a dining area complete with a table and enough chairs for all of your guests.

Pools, Ponds, and Water Features

The sound and sight of running water are without a doubt one of the most calming sounds there are. Combine that with some lounge furniture, beautiful stonework, and a captivating water feature and you have your own private oasis. The perfect backyard pool is the pool that actually gets used, and not just looked at. So, decide what you would like to use your pool for. If you want to do swim laps every day, then make sure your pool is

 long enough. If you want to spend your evenings soaking in the hot tub with a glass of wine while twinkling fairy lights hang overhead, then make it happen. Consider incorporating water features into your pool for an even more dramatic effect.

The Gardens

Spending time in nature, breathing in the fresh air, is good for you – emotionally and physically. Dedicate a space on your property for you to spend some quality time. Relax, read a book, or even return ph

one calls. If you work from home there are plenty of ways to get outside while you’re still on the clock. Use a wide offset outdoor umbrella over the top of your patio set to keep the sun off your laptop, and make sure that the wireless connection reaches your deck!

It’s time to start cleaning up your backyard and making it into the oasis that you have always dreamed of!