Are you looking for a way to enjoy your home in Bend even more this summer? Designing an outdoor space you love is a great way to add value to your home, both for yourself in the immediate future and for your potential resale value.
Recent surveys reveal that most buyers now list an outdoor space as a top priority for them as they are house hunting, thanks to a post-pandemic shift toward spending more time at home. This means that when you invest your time and effort into designing an outdoor space you love, you are also investing in the future market appeal of your home in Bend.
Want to learn more about the market value of your home in Bend, or the process of selling your home in Central Oregon? Contact us any time.
Set Up a Seating Area
If you find that you don't have a large porch or patio, don't worry! There are plenty of creative ways to set up a seating area in a different part of your yard. Consider creating a dedicated space by installing a paver or pea gravel patio area. These options are not only cost-effective but also provide a charming and rustic ambiance.
When designing your seating area, think about incorporating features that can extend the usability of the space throughout the year. Adding a fire pit at the center can create a cozy and warm atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space even during cooler evenings or colder seasons. Gathering around a fire pit with friends and family creates a focal point and encourages socialization, making your outdoor area the perfect spot for hosting gatherings and creating lasting memories.
To make the seating area more comfortable and inviting, invest in quality outdoor furniture that suits your style and needs. Consider durable and weather-resistant materials such as teak, wrought iron, or aluminum, as they can withstand the elements and require minimal maintenance. Additionally, accessorize the seating area with plush cushions, outdoor rugs, and throw pillows to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Don't forget to add shade elements to your seating area, especially if your yard receives direct sunlight. Install a pergola, canopy, or patio umbrella to provide relief from the sun's rays and create a comfortable space to relax during hot summer days. Shade structures not only offer protection from the elements but also add architectural interest and visual appeal to your outdoor space.
Finally, don't underestimate the power of landscaping and greenery in enhancing your seating area. Surround the space with lush plants, shrubs, or flower beds to create a sense of privacy and natural beauty. Consider planting fragrant flowers or herbs nearby to infuse the area with pleasant scents, making your outdoor oasis even more enjoyable.
By setting up a comfortable seating area in your outdoor space, you can transform it into a place where you'll want to spend more time. Whether it's relaxing with a book, hosting a barbecue, or simply enjoying the fresh air, an inviting seating area will not only enhance your quality of life but also add value to your property.
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Make Entertaining Easy
By incorporating a few key elements, you can effortlessly host and entertain friends and family in your backyard.
Consider adding a bar cart to your outdoor space. A bar cart equipped with a cooler allows you to conveniently set up a variety of refreshing beverages and appetizers. It serves as a stylish and functional piece, providing a designated area for drinks, glassware, and other bar essentials. With a well-stocked bar cart, you can easily cater to your guests' preferences and ensure that everyone has their favorite beverage within reach.
To further facilitate hosting and entertaining, invest in extra chairs and a set of outdoor dishes. Having ample seating options ensures that everyone has a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the company. Folding chairs or stackable seating options can be easily stored and brought out when needed. Opt for durable and weather-resistant outdoor dishes, including plates, glasses, and utensils, which are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. This eliminates the need to constantly bring out and clean indoor items when entertaining outside.
To create an inviting atmosphere, consider adding outdoor lighting to your space. String lights, lanterns, or pathway lighting can enhance the ambiance and provide ample illumination for evening gatherings. Lighting not only adds a touch of charm but also ensures that your outdoor space remains functional and enjoyable even after the sun sets.
In addition to the practical elements, don't forget to incorporate comfortable and cozy seating options. Consider investing in outdoor furniture such as lounge chairs, sofas, or a dining set that is both stylish and comfortable. Cushions and outdoor pillows can add a pop of color and extra comfort. Creating various seating areas, such as a cozy lounge space or a dining area, encourages conversation and mingling, allowing guests to relax and enjoy themselves.
To add a touch of creativity and personalization to your outdoor space, consider incorporating decorative elements that reflect your style and interests. This could include outdoor artwork, vibrant planters, or even a small outdoor garden or herb patch. These elements can serve as conversation starters and create a visually appealing backdrop for your entertaining space.
Lastly, keep in mind the importance of convenience and functionality. Make sure your outdoor space is equipped with amenities such as a convenient access point to the kitchen for easy food preparation and serving. Consider adding a grill or outdoor cooking area to expand your culinary options and create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor entertaining.
Balance Hardscape and Landscape
Your yard should incorporate a nice blend of hardscaping and landscaping. If your outdoor space leans too far in one direction, it can feel like something is imbalanced in the space. Take a look at the current outdoor design and determine whether you might benefit from added plants around the hardscape, like planting flowering shrubs along a fenceline or incorporating potted plants on the patio. If there is too much plant life and not enough structure, add some concrete or stone edging or a paver pathway through the lawn to visually break up the space.
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Don't Forget about Lighting
Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in transforming the design and ambiance of your outdoor space. Just like indoor lighting, the right choices can make a significant difference in creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. When it comes to outdoor lighting, it's important to give yourself options and think beyond the basic illumination.
One approach to outdoor lighting is to consider ways to provide shade when needed. Installing outdoor drapes on the sides of a patio cover or investing in a large umbrella not only offers relief from the sun's rays but also introduces an element of style and versatility to your outdoor area. These shade options allow you to control the amount of natural light entering the space while adding a touch of elegance and privacy.
To enhance the ambiance after dark, consider incorporating string lights into your outdoor space. Stringing these lights across the area where you are most likely to spend your evenings adds a magical and enchanting touch. Whether it's wrapping them around trees, hanging them along a fence, or draping them across a pergola or canopy, these lights create a warm and inviting atmosphere that is distinctly different from the typical house lights. The soft, ambient glow of the string lights sets a cozy and relaxing mood, perfect for unwinding or entertaining guests in the evening.
In addition to string lights, explore other options for outdoor lighting that can further enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Consider installing pathway lights along walkways or garden borders to provide both safety and visual appeal. These lights not only illuminate the path but also add a charming element to your landscaping. Furthermore, spotlights can be strategically placed to highlight specific features in your yard, such as trees, sculptures, or architectural elements, creating a focal point and adding depth and interest to the overall design.
Another consideration for outdoor lighting is the use of accent lighting. This involves using subtle lighting fixtures to illuminate specific areas or objects. For instance, you can install low-voltage lights beneath steps or along the edges of a patio or deck to provide a gentle glow that enhances safety and aesthetics. Accent lighting can also be used to highlight plants, flowers, or other natural elements, adding drama and beauty to your outdoor space.
Incorporating smart lighting technology is another option worth exploring. With smart outdoor lighting systems, you can control the intensity, color, and timing of your lights from your smartphone or other devices. This allows you to easily create different lighting scenes and adjust the ambiance according to your mood or the occasion. Whether you want a vibrant and energetic setting for a lively outdoor gathering or a soft and tranquil glow for a quiet night under the stars, smart lighting provides the flexibility to customize your outdoor lighting experience.
By giving yourself options and thinking beyond the typical house lights, you can elevate the design and atmosphere of your outdoor space. The strategic use of shade elements, string lights, pathway lights, spotlights, accent lighting, and even smart lighting technology allows you to create a captivating and versatile outdoor environment that can be enjoyed day and night. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, the right outdoor lighting can transform your outdoor space into a captivating haven.
Make It Fun
Don't forget to add some fun elements to your outdoor space, for kids and adults alike. This might include:
- Swings
- Lawn games like bocce ball, cornhole, or croquet
- Supplies for s'mores around the fire pit
In conclusion, transforming your backyard into a truly inviting space requires careful consideration and thoughtful planning. By implementing the right elements, such as creating a comfortable seating area, incorporating outdoor lighting, adding shade options, and incorporating personal touches, you can turn your backyard into a haven that beckons you and your guests to spend more time outdoors. Whether you're seeking relaxation, entertainment, or simply a connection with nature, a welcoming backyard provides the perfect setting for creating cherished memories and enjoying the beauty of outdoor living. So, take the time to invest in your outdoor space, and reap the rewards of a backyard that not only enhances your home but also enriches your lifestyle.
To learn more about real estate in Bend, contact us any time with your questions.