Now that the weather is warming up, it’s a great time to prepare your garden for summer. And since our backyards are an extension of our homes, we often forget to consider their design and layout, to make it a more functional and elegant space. This also makes it a nicer space to relax and entertain guests once you’ve gotten your act together. the grill or the pizza oven.
Most people are probably guilty of making one of these mistakes in their backyard design, and while this may seem difficult to do, especially in urban homes, all you need is the right design, the right plants, and furniture. or practical accessories to create a more relaxing environment. .
What’s more, avoiding these household mistakes can help make your yard look bigger and it will make your space more attractive. So before you start transforming your outdoor space, be sure to avoid these backyard design mistakes and enjoy the summer.
1. Do not create ‘zones’
Whether you have a spacious or compact garden, a common mistake is not considering functionality or overcrowding the space. Most people tend to scatter everything, such as pots, garden accessories or seating areas, without thinking much about it. This can often clutter the space, making it feel cramped and not taking advantage of the full potential of your backyard space.
By creating separate zones or areas in your garden, this will clearly define each space and look aesthetically pleasing. For example, separating areas with planters or flower beds, or piding the lawn with gravel paths or paving stones.
It’s also a good idea to have a designated seating or entertaining area so that all your garden furniture is kept in one place, rather than scattered around. This sense of order will not only create an organized space, but will also make it feel more spacious and easier to navigate.
2. Lack of plant variety
In addition to creating a practical space, you also want a visual impact in your backyard. Having the right plant variety can really increase your appeal and create a bright and vibrant space.
“Small gardens, especially, are often completely paved and can often lack natural vegetation, making them look lifeless and unattractive,” says Molly Woodward-Moor, creative director at stone hypermarkets. “Try adding flowers, herbs and low-maintenance plants, such as peonies, rosemary and marigolds, to add a touch of visual interest and liven up your outdoor space by attracting pollinators.
Additionally, use wall space to create a vertical garden It is a great idea for those with limited outdoor space, such as urban terraces and balconies. Adding planters, wall-mounted shelving or pallets for growing herbs and flowers can also create the illusion of a larger space, as the eye will naturally be drawn upward.”
Also, don’t neglect the use of color, as you don’t want your patio to look dull or dull with just one shade. “Choosing complementary tones or even contrasting colors, which are opposite each other on the color wheel, can add a touch of vibrancy. Color schemes can be implemented in many ways, using tiles, furniture, flowers or decorative accessories.”
Also, if you have nosy neighbors or want to enjoy your garden in peace, check out these 7 plants to create more privacy in your backyard.
3. Placing garden furniture in the wrong place
Another common backyard mistake is placing outdoor furniture in the wrong place. In particular, placing garden furniture or outdoor storage on the grass. According to experts, this is a no-no, as the heavy weight of furniture legs can cause long-term damage to your lawn. If possible, stay on a paved patio or concrete area that is solid and flat.
“Heavy furniture and the legs of garden chairs and tables can compress the grass, over time creating patches of bare grass or yellow/brown patches where the grass is dead and will need to be reseeded,” agrees Woodward. Moore. “If your space is limited and grass is the only area you have to work with, there are a few things you can do to prevent damage. Consider adding furniture caps to the bottom of table and chair legs to help minimize pressure on the grass, and be sure to move furniture regularly to prevent grass compression.”
So if you’re hosting parties, you can purchase caps like these 1-1/2″ Wrought Iron Patio Furniture Leg Caps ($15, Amazon), which are easy to install on your furniture legs and will protect your lawn.
4. Play it safe with fences
Who says billboards have to be boring and boring? When it comes to backyard design, we often neglect our fences, assuming they have to be smooth (and brown!). However, painting or staining fences with a bold color of your choice can really transform your outdoor space.
In fact, if you have a compact outdoor space, experts recommend painting your fences a shade of green. Not only will it make your backyard look larger, but it will also blend effectively with the greenery outside.
Other fence color options include light blue, cream, or natural wood tones that will brighten the space. Pair it with the best outdoor rug for a pop of color. And if you’re into upcycling, you can even paint your garden furniture a lighter shade, just be sure to check out these 7 smart painting tricks before doing it.
5. Inadequate lighting sources
Another common backyard mistake is installing the wrong or inadequate type of lighting. A soft glow instead of bright white will also add a cozy and relaxing atmosphere to your outdoor space, especially once the sun goes down.
“Many people tend to overlook outdoor lighting and only focus on the daytime aspect of their gardens,” says Woodward-Moor. “However, they may not realize that using different lighting features can improve the ambiance and safety of your outdoor space, allowing you to spend more time outdoors once the sun goes down to take advantage of your garden to the fullest.
Whether it’s perimeter lighting, wall lights, or intertwined chains on trees, layer best solar lights around your backyard to provide the right amount of lighting. “There are many easy ways to add ambient lighting to your garden. You could also consider outdoor candle lanterns to add a romantic atmosphere to your space; these generally work well for dinner parties.
Additionally, consider using strip lighting or spotlights along paths and steps to improve nighttime visibility, ensuring safe movement throughout the garden while also improving the atmosphere. Solar lights are the best because they usually come with sensors and turn on automatically when the sun’s energy is no longer available.”
Installing the right outdoor lighting will not only create a more inviting and relaxing space, but it’s also another trick to making a small backyard appear larger.
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