4 Backyard “Must Haves” for your Outdoor Living Space

• We encourage our clients to think broadly about how the space will be used. Whether its primary function will be entertaining large parties or intimate family get-togethers, the right square footage, design, shape and materials will contribute to the ease of use and your satisfaction for years to come.
• Decks can add visual appeal and function to your home. Look at adding a sunken seating area with a firepit, built-in benches around a hot tub or including design elements in a railing for the perfect combination of function and style.
• While a majority of decks are made from wood, there is an explosion of composite, concrete, tile and other building materials that are long lasting and can be combined to form the ultimate deck experience.

Pro Tip: Consider the style and aesthetic of the entire home while designing the deck to ensure a seamless look and experience.

• A pavilion usually has a solid roof and is ideal to protect from the weather while maintaining the outdoor living feel. A pergola has a more open/lattice roof and is great to add some additional cover while still feeling open.
• The structures don’t need to connect to the main house, offering unlimited options in terms of placement and size. You can add one to the back garden for a lovely seating area or to a corner of the deck/patio to add privacy to your hot tub or create a walkway between two spaces.
• Adding lighting, climbing flowers or vines and incorporating different materials and colors will make your pavilion or pergola even more inviting and let you enjoy the space day or night.

Pro Tip: Before building a pavilion or pergola make sure to have the right approvals and permits before beginning construction.

• A pool house does not have to be a complicated endeavor. A simple structure that is compatible with the overall aesthetic of your main home will offer a convenient space to change before jumping in.
• Key features to include in a pool house are ample storage for pool items including towels and floaties, an area to keep food and drinks and a place to privately change. You can also add a bathroom or small kitchen area to further enhance the experience.
• If you are looking at additional entertaining space, a backyard pool house is a great way to achieve that. Add a pergola or garage doors to the structure for an indoor/outdoor space away from the main home.

Pro Tip: Structures near a pool often experience increased humidity. Use materials, cabinets and furniture that are able to withstand the increased moisture for less ongoing maintenance and increased durability.

• An enclosed/covered patio can feature skylights or shades controlled by remote control to offer the balance of letting in light or being able to stargaze while still offering protection from the elements.
• Add technology to the design, install a TV and enjoy the game or movie while relaxing on the deck, add surround sound speakers to set the mood for your al fresco party or game night.
• Include a heat source so you can enjoy the space on a chilly fall night. Adding a fireplace or overhead heaters can make the space comfortable even when the temperatures are not.

Pro Tip: When building an enclosed/covered patio off the home, consider how the doors to and from the patio will work in the space.