Geranium communities are designed for exceptional living all-year-round. During the summer, the backyard becomes a favourite place to make lasting memories.
If you’re ready to take your outdoor space to new heights, this post is for you. Here are a few ideas to transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis, so you can make the most of warm weather and your outdoor space.
Define Your Space
When planning your yard, consider the size, shape and existing elements, factor in the sunlight and shade patterns. Then ask yourself, “what is your goal?” Are you aiming to maximize privacy or create a peaceful retreat for unwinding? Once you’ve determined this, you can start designing your layout. Outline the placement of various elements, beginning with essentials like seating and lighting before moving on to the “wish list” like a fireplace, water feature or activity area.
When it comes to maximizing your landscape potential, different size lots require different approaches. Whether it’s an expansive area, like our Belwood Estates and Courts of King’s Bay communities which offer acreage and wide lots, or more traditional lots as found in Midhurst Valley, every backyard has the potential to become a backyard oasis.
Start with a goal. What do you want your backyard for?
Go Green
Enhance your landscaping with lush plants and natural features. Opt for dense, leafy plants with year-round foliage, then mix in flowering varieties to add a splash of colour and attract pollinators.
For added dimension, layer your plants by arranging taller species at the back and shorter ones at the front. Creating a green wall is fun way to add to your backyard.
Talk with the experts at your local nursery or garden centre to choose the right plants for your sun exposure and your soil.
Greenery is a natural way to enhance your space
Maximize Privacy
Fences, pergolas, trellises and hedges are effective ways to enhance privacy; be sure to choose the ones that work best with your space. Hedges are a great eco-friendly option but need time to grow; tall ornamental grasses are fast growing and work extremely well for summertime privacy; pergolas set a stunning stage and can achieve the privacy you want beautifully.
Thoughtful placement of seating in secluded areas and creating intimate groupings, instead of straight lines, can significantly boost backyard privacy. Consider adding an umbrella that can be easily repositioned.
Get the most out of your space with elements that embrace your privacy
Illuminating Ideas
As we discussed in our blog about indoor lighting options, the same principles apply outdoors. Here are some outdoor lighting types to consider:
- Task lighting offers direct light for cooking and barbequing, and are essential for pathways and steps.
- Ambient lighting, post and wall mounted lights provide an overall illumination suitable for both winter and summer.
- Choosing Accent and Decorative Lighting is where the fun really begins. Highlight plants and water features with accent lights, then add decorative string lights and lanterns to set the stage for your backyard paradise.
The proper lighting can have a dramatic effect
Water Elements
Fountains, ponds, bird baths, or a hot tub add beauty and value to your home. Be practical with the space you have and be sure to check local regulations for larger installations. Water elements like a fountain or pond also add ecological value, and can become a favourite for families to enjoy.
Small water elements can make a big difference
At Allegro in Aurora, and Clarehaven in North Pickering, every home includes a spacious, outdoor covered loggia, the perfect space to host, relax, and get the most of your indoor/outdoor living. Learn more about our communities at www.geranium.com
Outdoor covered loggia at Allegro