You are enjoying a glass of wine on the porch while the sun sinks below the horizon.
You and your husband are finally starting to feel settled in after moving into your new custom home. The fire pit keeps you both warm, and your dogs have finally settled on the patio at your feet. “This,” you think, looking out at the backyard, “is my favorite room of the house.”
Your outdoor living space is not just an extension of your home; it’s a reflection of your lifestyle. Whether you dream of al fresco summer dinners, cozy fall evenings, or peaceful winter morning coffees on the porch, your outdoor space should be designed with comfort and functionality in mind. Below are our favorite ideas to help you design an outdoor living space that you can enjoy all year round.
Covered Patios with Comfort in Mind
Imagine enjoying a glass of sweet tea in the shade on a hot summer day or taking shelter from a soft autumn rainfall under the shelter of your pergola. A couple of aesthetically pleasing ceiling fans keep the heat and bugs at bay in the warmer months, and a stone fireplace keeps you warm and cozy on chill winter nights. Consider using composite decking or stained concrete for easy maintenance and all-weather durability.
Outdoor Kitchens and Dining Areas
Get the most year-round use out of your outdoor living area with a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Include a built-in grill, mini fridge, sink, and prep area for full-function entertainment. When selecting your countertops, choose materials such as granite or concrete that are designed to withstand the elements. Add an air of sophistication and intentionality with the addition of outdoor lighting to set the tone for outdoor meals.
Fire Features for Cozy Gatherings
Stay warm and comfortable on chilly nights with a cozy lounge area centered around a stone or gas fire pit. During the day, your outdoor seating area can serve as an aesthetic focal point in your yard with the use of pavers and natural stone to add texture.
Blend Indoors and Out
The interior of your custom home should flow seamlessly into your outdoor living area in terms of functionality and style. Make the transition from the indoors to the outdoors feel more connected by utilizing sliding or folding glass doors and using similar tones and materials in both places. Incorporate outdoor rugs, cushions, and lighting to infuse your personal style into every square inch of your property.
Functional Landscaping for Real Life
Create a vibrant backyard year-round by being intentional with your landscaping design. Incorporate low-maintenance native plants that thrive in your climate to conserve water, and enhance your space with pathways, raised beds, or privacy hedges to add structure and character.
Tips to Design the Right Outdoor Space for Your Lifestyle
Do you entertain often?
If having friends and family over to enjoy the outdoors with you is important, prioritize seating and food prep space.
Do you love quiet mornings or evenings?
Focus on privacy, cozy corners, and warmth. This could look like a screened-in porch, a sitting area in the garden, or a fire pit.
Do you need a play area or a pet-friendly design?
Incorporate lawn zones or fencing into the layout to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Want a low-maintenance lifestyle?
Select outdoor building materials and low-maintenance plants that complement your routine, not hinder it.
Building Your Dream Outdoor Space
Your outdoor space should feel just as personal and welcoming as the rest of your custom home. Whether your vision includes a tranquil garden space tucked away from the world or a backyard living area equipped to comfortably entertain a dozen friends, we can help you design it to match your lifestyle and be enjoyed all year long.
Don’t let your outdoor space be an afterthought. Create a space you will remember with LaFollette Custom Homes.