For many homeowners, the backyard is an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the great outdoors. However, it will not start that way. Homeowners must make an effort to transform the backyard into an oasis. Planting trees, shrubs, and flowers adding a patio or deck, and installing a pool, hot tub, or other water feature can all be part of the process. With some work, you can transform the backyard into a healthy space that the whole family will enjoy.
However, the backyard needs to follow a theme for it to come together as a whole. A backyard with a pool, hot tub, and deck is not complete without some landscaping. Likewise, a backyard with a garden should have a patio or walkway leading to it. By having a theme, the backyard will feel more like an extension of the home rather than just an empty lot. It doesn’t have to be the same as the indoor theme, but it should complement it. Here are a few themes to consider for the outdoor area.
Tropical Paradise
Consider a tropical paradise if you’re looking for a backyard theme that will provide a relaxing escape. With palm trees, gently flowing waterfalls, and colorful flowers, it can be the perfect place to relax and forget about the world. Homeowners can also use a tropical paradise theme to bring in some of the colors and textures of nature, which can be soothing for the eyes. If you have a pool or hot tub, this can be a great theme to create an outdoor oasis.
The lighting will also be critical in setting the mood for a tropical paradise. Soft, diffused lighting will help to create a more relaxed atmosphere. LED lights are a great option because they don’t produce much heat, making them safer to use around plants and flowers.
The furniture should also go with the design of the space. For example, wicker furniture can help create a more natural feel. If you want to add some color, consider using brightly colored cushions or pillows.
Formal Garden
Another option for the backyard is a formal garden. This theme can be either traditional or modern, depending on your preferences. Formal gardens often have straight lines, symmetrical design, and a clean appearance, requiring more attention to detail than other backyard themes. Bushes, hedges, and other plants are trimmed neatly and often include topiaries. Flowers are also a common sight in formal gardens. They are usually in beds edged with brick or stone.
Like a tropical paradise, lighting is vital in setting the mood for a formal garden. Path lights can help to create a more elegant feel, while uplights can highlight features like topiaries.
The furniture in a formal garden should also be kept simple and clean. Wrought iron or metal furniture with clean lines is a good option. You may also want to consider adding benches or an arbor for seating.
Natural Retreat
Consider a natural retreat if you’re looking for a backyard theme closer to nature. This type of backyard gets characterized by its use of native plants and materials. Stone, wood, and other natural materials are abundant throughout the space. The goal is to create a space that feels like part of the landscape rather than separate from it.
A natural retreat can be a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It can also be a great place to entertain guests. If you have a pool or other water feature, consider adding some stone around it to create a more natural look.
For lighting, consider using solar lights or LED lights. These lights don’t produce much heat, making them safer to use around plants and flowers.
Furniture for a natural retreat should also be from raw materials. Stone, wood, and wicker are all excellent choices. You may also want to add cushions or pillows in earth tones to add some color to the space.
You can also add a few design pieces that represent meditation. A large wooden Shakyamuni buddha figure can make an excellent focal point for the backyard. Consider adding a water feature like a waterfall or fountain for a more natural look. A few well-placed stones can also help to create a more meditative atmosphere.
Conclusion
The backyard is an integral part of the home and should be given as much attention as the indoor area. With so many different themes to choose from, there’s sure to be one that will fit your style and needs. Be sure to consider the climate when choosing a theme for the outdoor area. Some themes may not work well in specific environments.
