Planning Your Outdoor Living Space is a Labor of Love

The landscape around your home contributes to the curb appeal of your property and has a direct effect on the time your household spends outdoors. A uncared for back yard or drab front porch can devalue you property and keep your family from enjoying the extended real living space they were meant to enjoy. Proper landscaping can work wonders to enhance the look of your property, expand real living space and add to the value of your property.

Here are some tips to help when planning or upgrading your outdoor living area:

Put Your Plan on Paper: You may be good at landscaping but everyone makes mistakes. To avoid costly mistakes or redo’s, make a sketch of your landscaping project and layout your plans in detail. Make a list of what you want to plant. List the building materials you want to use, i.e. soil, rocks, lumber, etc. and do pricing. When completed, schedule an hour consultation with a professional landscape designer to go over the plans. Experienced designers can advise you or make suggestions that can save you time and money. The cost of a simple consultation is well worth the price.

Toxic Plants and Your Pets: If you have dogs or cats in your household be sure to check if the plants you are using are safe for your pets. All types of jasmine plants are highly toxic for dogs. Although cats don’t usually eat outdoor plants as long as ordinary grass is available, they are known to nibble on leaves or flower from time to time. Tiger lilies are highly toxic and unwanted in your garden if you have cats. Common ivy used as ground cover is also dangerous for cats because it causes nausea and vomiting.

Awnings are Functional and Beautiful: If you have a back deck or porch, consider purchasing an awning for cover and to enhance the look of the area. Awnings can really dress up an outdoor space and make it more functional. A simple concrete patio can be turned into a beautiful outdoor living/dining area by an awning providing shelter from the hot mid-day sun and protection from rain or sprinkles. There are many design and color options when selecting awnings so look around a bit and you’re sure to find one that is perfect for your home.

Think Wicker for Outdoor Furniture: Shop around for bargains in outdoor furniture. Wicker furniture is beautiful and highly useful. You can find many good deals at outdoor flea markets or rummage sales. With a little new paint and some colorful cushions, your rattan pieces can go from junk to antiques overnight. There are also excellent web sites that sell new wicker furniture in many beautiful styles.

Think of your landscaping projects and outdoor furniture designs as a labor of love. Hang on to your vision and remember that even small changes make a big difference. The important thing is to take your time and enjoy it.