Still Not Finding Joy In Your Backyard?

Unseasonably warm weather means many of us are spending more time outside (yay!) and, possibly, planning get-togethers and holidays for the Spring and Summer.

As a host, you want a functional and inviting outdoor space to entertain your guests of all ages, with places to sit and congregate and cook and eat and play.

When designing for clients, we start with these desires. We want to know how we can create joy in your outdoor spaces. From there, I design and we build outdoor rooms that are functional and that flow together into one cohesive yard.

Are you getting the most out of your outdoor space right now? If not, these prompts can help you craft a plan to upgrade your yard this year.

1. How do I want to use this space?
2. What do I need to add to make that possible? Think of equipment, furniture, lights, cooking or heating elements, electronics, grass, wildlife feeders, etc.
3. Where in my space can I build each room/element to accommodate those needs?
4. How will I connect all of the different spaces? In other words, what design elements will I have throughout the space (such as brick around garden beds or grey stone walkways).
5. What safety measures, permits, etc. do I need to consider?
6. When do I need this done?

From there you prioritize your “wants,” list out the materials and equipment you need, schedule your phases, then get started!

I realize not everyone has as much fun doing this work as I do, so if you’d like to outsource the planning, designing, and installing give me a call.

Last year, I had so much fun reimagining and redesigning this backyard and front yard. They had the square footage – our task was optimizing it so they could entertain with ease…and with joy. Learn more about that project on my website!

I hope these ideas inspire you to refresh your outdoor spaces, no matter your budget! Have a happy New Year.

Pragya Mishra is the Founder and Principal of Artscapes, LLC, a Northern Virginia-based landscape architecture firm that specializes in designing outdoor transformations that bring you joy. With 22 years of professional experience, she works closely with each client and her network of top-tier contractors to make each project vision a reality. Follow Artscapes on Instagram @artscapes_living and see examples of past projects on her website, www.artscapesliving.com.

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