A professionally designed and landscaped backyard is a stunning focal point for any home. Here are some ideas for creating a bespoke outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
Set your budget
Using professionals to bring your bespoke backyard to life will ensure you achieve the highest quality results. Of course, this means it’s important to do some research and set a realistic budget, as this might determine the scope of the makeover. Professionals you might consider hiring are:
1. Landscape architect: Designs and plans the project and sees it through to completion (more suited for larger, complex projects).
2. Garden designer or landscaper: Similar to a landscape architect but without architecture credentials (suitable for smaller spaces).
3. Swimming pool installer: Designs and installs the best swimming pool for your needs.
4. Contractors: Needs will vary by project but might include clearing trees and building foundations, such as for a summer house or water feature.
5. Maintenance: To keep your outside space looking good and functioning at its best year-round.
As well as professional services, you will need to budget for incidentals – such as garden ornaments, furniture, gravel and (of course!) plants.
Design your space
Before you bring in a professional designer, take some time to think about what you might like in your backyard. Consider the types of plants and flowers you prefer and how you plan to use your backyard space. Make a wish list of items, and once you bring a professional designer on board, they can advise on the best way to make your list a reality, taking your local climate and soil type into consideration. They might even suggest style or safety elements, such as those provided by companies like US Glass Fence, which could offer the perfect solution for your bespoke backyard, such as Q-Railing.
Think about the practicalities
While it’s easy to get carried away with designing the perfect backyard, remember that it is also a functioning part of your home. This means that practicalities should be part of any design. Whether you have children that need a safe place to play, a pet-friendly area, or an accessible space for people with reduced mobility, it is important to factor in how you will use your backyard. From home offices to swimming pool safety, nowadays there are plenty of innovative and practical solutions, which can ensure your backyard can be enjoyed by all your family, friends and visitors through the seasons.
Maintain your backyard
Finally, remember that your backyard will require a level of maintenance. Your budget for this and/or your willingness to undertake the work yourself will be one of the elements to consider when designing your outside space. For example, if you want a more hands-off garden, choose plants that are low maintenance. Likewise, artificial lawns and woodchips can add hassle-free touches to your outside space. Swimming pools will need to be cleaned regularly, while tall trees might need trimming to avoid becoming a nuisance to your neighbors. Your garden designer or landscaper will be able to offer advice on how you can keep your garden in optimal condition, at a price you can afford.
While it might seem like an extravagance, a professionally designed garden can be a great investment. As well as providing a lovely space to enjoy, it might even make your home more attractive to potential buyers, should you ever wish to sell.
CONVERSATION