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How to Ensure You Get the Most out of Your Outdoor Living Space

Written by:
Lisa Thompkins
Photography:
Sinatra Cabana, Frankfranco Architects

The average lawn takes up more square feet than the home itself, yet all of this space is often wasted. If you're ready to get the most out of your outdoor living space while also boosting your property value and giving it more curb appeal: these are some awesome projects to consider!

Why Make Your Outdoor Space More Inviting

Making the exterior of your home as comfortable as possible is great for countless reasons. Not only does it boost your curb appeal and make it into a home you're more excited to show off, but it also promises you'll get more use out of the exterior of your home. Overgrown grass can be a problem, so having a robot grass mower can be a smart solution. There's no doubt that lawn maintenance is a time-consuming task, but with the help of this innovative technology, you can free up your weekends to enjoy other activities with family and friends.

Over 60% of American adults spend less than five hours outside in any given week, and that's not enough time to get the vitamin and health benefits that nature can provide. Having an attractive and updated lawn will give you the push you need to get outside more often.

Considerations if You Don’t Have a Large Yard

If you don't have a large yard, you don't have to go without any outdoor space! Instead, there are still options for building up or out. Balconies and roof patios are becoming quickly popular, allowing people to get outside and enjoy nature regardless of how much lawn they have. 

Getting roof deck pavers or creating a roof or back deck will let you create a space that's custom to your needs and allows you to entertain and have fun outdoors at any time.

How To Design The Perfect Outdoor Spaceimage © McNeill Photography

Create an Edible Entertainment Area

Cooking is a large part of entertaining, but it's no fun when you have to miss out on conversation or excitement because you're stuck back in the kitchen. Outdoor kitchens have become incredibly popular as a solution! 

These spaces let you cook, bake, or bartend for your guest, offering the chance to have fun and be part of the excitement while still prepping food and drinks. This can even invite guests to take part in the work if you want them to help!

Portion Out Areas of Your Lawn

It's hard to visualize a lawn as a separate entertainment area unless spaces for cooking or lounging, and on your property, you can do everything from having a fire pit to building a beautiful edible garden, but make sure their sections are clear.

This will inspire you to go outside more since you'll have a clear destination regardless of mood.

Keep Water, Heat, and Bugs at Bay

The last thing you want to deal with when you get outside in the heat, mosquitoes, or rain. For most homes, a citronella candle and a good umbrella will help, but there are more permanent answers.

Look into rustic porch ceiling ideas to create a more attractive lid for your outdoor space, and consider growing plants like lemongrass, basil, or mint, all of which scare away mosquitoes and give you awesome cooking ingredients.

Remember, Maintenance is Everything

Nobody wants a yard or exterior they have to fight to maintain. The average person doesn't want to spend more than an hour or two maintaining their property every week. To make it easier on yourself, start with a good base. This means reliable materials, awesome contractors or skilled companies, and a willingness to learn. 

You want a company that you can trust to apply your exterior stone veneer siding instead of just going with whoever's the most affordable. 

Understand the Need for Privacy and Safety

Fences are coming into style again, giving homeowners a chance to build privacy and security into their homes. Even if you live in a safe area, a privacy fence may provide you the protection needed to be able to relax and enjoy your home's exterior without feeling like someone can see you at any time. 

Remember to contact your HOA before you make any changes like this since they may try to fine you if they decide it doesn't match the aesthetic.

Deep Clean Your Home's Exterior to Make it More Inviting

If you want to make your property as attractive as possible, it's a good idea to ensure it's clean as well. The best way to do this is to rent a pressure washer. The strength of a pressure washer will knock off any dirt, dust, or pollen and allow your home to look new and fantastic. You can also pressure wash any sidewalks or driveways to get rid of stains or debris that ages your home.

Make sure to research how to properly use one of these machines, so you don't accidentally take out a window or ruin your siding.

image © Sheila Sim

Everyone Wants More Time in Fresh Air!

Being outside lets us become the best versions of ourselves. If you want the chance to make your home's exterior a dream come true, consider some of these tips.


By Liliana Alvarez

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