PORCHES AND PAVILIONS
Many homes come with outdoor structures. These may be in varying states of usefulness or beauty. Here are some smart ideas for improving porches, pavilions and other outdoor buildings or elements.
Porch:
- Address the flooring. Is it hardwood? Stone? Cement? All of these can be refurbished or just pressure washed to look good as new.
- Add actual (outdoor) furniture to create seating areas and even textiles, like
- Update the lighting. You may not hang out on your porch because it’s too dark at night. You can add lighting on the railing, along the perimeter and even on tables on the porch itself.
Pavilion:
- Pergolas may need to be resealed for weather resistance or repainted every couple of years.
- Pavilions may benefit from getting new vinyl covers and even rollaway siding. These can function as separate outdoor spaces for parties or just family fun.
- Gazebos may be pressure washed and cleaned out. You can also use decorative or functional lighting and get any broken pieces fixed.
Shed:
Sheds aren’t just for keeping the lawn equipment and Halloween decorations. Now, high-tech sheds can include lighting and even air conditioning, making them a fun on-site option for playrooms or home offices.
PLANTS:
Depending on where you live, seasonal plants may be a great option for keeping your outdoor spaces vibrant and beautiful at all times. You may wish to research and plant some of the following:
Perennials: many flower species will come up every year. Plant strategically for beautiful blooms each spring.
Annuals: get a splash of color each year by freshly planting annuals. Remember, though, that you will have to rotate them out and compose or dispose of them because they only last one year.
Vines: vines are a great way to accent walls or provide a whimsical element to the outside spaces of your home.
Greens: greens should comprise the core of your landscaping. These require very little maintenance and are hardy against the elements.
Expert tip: pick one color of mulch and use it in all of your flowerbeds. Re
mulch quarterly to keep it looking fresh and sharp.
YOUR KITCHEN GARDEN
There’s nothing more enjoyable than heading out to the garden to grab a summer fresh tomato or sprig of basil for your sauce. Some plants are virtually proof and easy for gardeners in any climate and at any level to grow.
Here are some great starter plants for an outdoor garden:
Herbs. Basil, oregano, mint and rosemary are renowned for being easy to grow and wonderful in a variety of dishes.
Vegetables. If you want some hearty, healthy options from your own backyard, vegetables are easy to grow from seed. You’ll have to pay attention to planting cycles and care. Some great options are zucchini, green beans, pumpkins, carrots, turnips and radishes.
Berries. Sweet, tart and fairly climate-resistant, berries are a great option if you want a quick yield. Compared to tree fruit or vine fruit, berries will germinate and grow fairly quickly. You’ll need a plan for protecting these from wildlife but you can plant strawberries, blackberries or blueberries and see a beautiful harvest.
PAVERS AND CONCRETE
Your outdoor space is probably a mix of grass and pavers or concrete. Whether you have a slab or individual pavers, these elements can help shape your outdoor spaces and provide a steady base for your basketball games or seating areas.
Here are some creative options:
Pavers: in any size and configuration, pavers can create patios, porches, walkways and garden accents. They may require expert installation and can be expensive as well as needing maintenance. However, many people love the luxe look and even choose to use pavers on their driveways. If installed and sealed correctly, they’ll last a long time and are far less likely to crack than a concrete slab.
Mosaic concrete: instead of a simple slab, you may choose to work with a company that can create concrete mosaics. These are arrangements of small concrete portions, sometimes filled in between with gravel. It looks modern and clean.
Stamped concrete: want to take it up a notch but not commit to the process of pavers? Stamped concrete may be your best bet. You can get well-designed and textured concrete that looks like stones.
Your outdoor spaces are an amazing way to entertain, showcase your personality and cultivate plants. It’s rewarding and enriching to get outside and spruce up your space!
Are you preparing your backyard and frontyard for a home sale? Are you scoping out yards in the neighborhood of your dreams? Whether you’re on the market or in the market, I can help! Contact me to learn more.