Creating an Eco-Friendly and Fun Backyard

When creating an outdoor space with universal design in mind, there are numerous factors to consider. Let’s start with the general design elements. You want your overall look to feel natural—after all, you’re outdoors. Take Mother Nature’s lead by using curved lines, natural stones, and incorporating native colors into your landscape.

Getting Started

Have a solid plan before putting a shovel in the ground, but know that most outdoor landscapes are done in stages, even if you have just built your home. Let each stage acclimate to its new surroundings. Since you’ll be doing your landscape in stages, plan for gas fire pits, lighting, yard outlets (for holiday or accent lighting), and water supply.

Walkways & Paths

Keep natural curves in mind, especially when it comes to poured concrete patios. Don’t be afraid to incorporate natural pavers that create a pattern. Differentiate levels of surface space by transitioning from poured concrete to flat stone pavers or manmade pavers with step downs and step ups to create depth and interest. Keep your pathways functional; for instance, if you love grilling and live where there is snow and ice, you can heat the pathway to your grill. You can even set it on a timer!

Landscaping

It may seem unconventional, but there is a new movement happening among both gardening newbies and experts alike—using natives. What does that mean? Using natives involves planting indigenous species of plants, grasses, and trees. This approach to landscaping can result in low maintenance and year-round enjoyment. It also leads to a happier, healthier garden as you attract more communities of natural bugs, bees, and small animals. These helpful creatures keep your garden thriving through pollination, soil turning, and breaking down decay to make way for new life.

There’s nothing worse than waking up the neighborhood with leaf blowers, lawn mowers, or similar noisy equipment. Why not plant an alternative to grass—clover! Clover is just as attractive as grass, requires cutting only once a month, and adds charm to your yard. Other options include creeping thyme, Zoysia tenuifolia, Dichondra repens, and more.

Trees can be deceiving, so pay close attention to that seemingly small tree you planted. Like a puppy that grows into a large dog, trees grow too, and when they do, they have big trunks and long roots. These trunks and roots can push up your patio or clog your drains if not installed correctly or at a safe distance from manmade elements.

Patio Space

Create your outdoor/indoor living space by playing around with the furniture and lighting. Have fun with it! Don’t be afraid to hang a chandelier under your outdoor porch. Incorporate some of the homey attributes you have inside to the outside. Consider features like window panels, shades that soften the edges, and adding privacy to an arbor or open porch. Have covered areas that provide shade and comfort during rain and hot sun.

Add elements like furniture, pillows, and artwork, such as statuary and hanging mobiles or birdhouses in the trees. Invite wildlife like local birds, butterflies, and maybe a few furry friends. Be playful with your entertainment—consider a space where you might project a movie during summer nights. Don’t forget the music and even the fire pit.

Conclusion

Keep things simple. Treat your yard like an extension of your home. Eating, relaxing, entertaining, and gardening can provide therapy for the soul. Surround yourself with color and fresh new life to create an eco-friendly and enjoyable backyard space.