When it comes to backyards, it’s not about the size but what you can do with them, to create the one-of-a-kind relaxation spot. Having even the smallest of backyards can be a blessing, especially during the long and hot summer days.
The backyard is a perfect outdoor space that can be transformed into your place of serenity, relaxation, and a place to unwind after work.
If you have a backyard, that you have no idea what to do with, here are some of the best ideas that will help you transform it into a relaxing retreat.
Seating spots
If you’re starting with a blank canvas, this is a perfect time to plan out different seating spots. You can create various activity zones simply by making different furniture arrangements. This means that you can have a dining area in your backyard, a conversation area, and a lounge area.
A table with a couple of chairs for the dining area. Lounge chairs on the patio and two or three chaise lounges under a sun umbrella. If you think of all the luxury hotels and spa retreats, you’ll notice that they all have hanging chairs, hammocks, or beds. This is because these pieces are ideal spots for relaxing, napping, and simply kicking back and enjoying the peace while slowly rocking back and forth.
Make sure all of these furniture pieces are comfortable and inviting. This is the most important part when creating a relaxing backyard – to be comfortable and to kick back and enjoy the outdoors.
Cover your backyard patio
At least one of your seating spots should be covered. For example, the lounge patio area can be covered with a pergola or sail cover. Having at least one of your relaxation spots covered will make all the difference.
With a patio cover, you’ll be maximizing your time outdoors – with protection from the elements, you won’t have to worry about the weather. You’ll be able to enjoy your backyard even when it’s raining or the sun is at its peak.
A covered patio also means your furniture won’t be exposed to the elements and in that way, it’ll last longer.
Outdoor lighting
Creating a perfect relaxation oasis in your backyard also requires proper lighting. The lighting can make a world of difference just about anywhere. Apart from making sure your backyard is safe to be around even after the sun sets, outdoor lighting can also create a unique ambience in your backyard.
Ambient lighting will transform your backyard into a true relaxation oasis. So, in addition to your regular task lights, add lanterns, candle lights, dimmable lights. For the backyard, solar lights, and solar fairy lights are also great ideas.
The point is to layer your lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere – that’s why you need to plan your outdoor lighting carefully and try not to overdo it.
A backyard water feature or a pool
When you think about relaxation the first thing that comes to your mind is either water or the sound of flowing water. This is because the sound of water flowing can be soothing since our brains interpret it as a non-threatening sound. The sound of water moving and even being in it can produce a sense of mental tranquillity and that’s exactly what we need in our relaxation spot.
This is why it’s a good idea to have a water feature or a pool in your backyard. The size of your backyard will dictate what kind of a water feature you can have in your backyard but worry not – even the smallest of backyards can accommodate some sort of a water feature.
Backyard fireplace
Another feature that can help you create a one-of-a-kind relaxation spot in your backyard is a fireplace. Just like the sound of water is soothing, so is the sound of a crackling fireplace. And not just that, fireplaces create warmth and light, and sitting around them can be a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Many landscape designers love to combine both water and fire features in backyards, so in addition to creating a calming atmosphere, these features will enhance the look of your backyard as well.
Color, pattern, and texture in your backyard
A cozy and inviting backyard has character and style. Yet another key to creating a relaxing retreat in your backyard is by playing around with colour, pattern, and texture. Yes, you can do this even outside.
Give personality to your backyard furniture by styling it with water and UV-resistant fabrics. These types of fabrics are ideal for outdoor furniture and they come in a ton of different colours and patterns, so you won’t have trouble deciding on a colour scheme. Cushions, pillows, you can combine colours and patterns however you want.
And not just that, you can add outdoor rugs to your patio for a homier feel, or you can create more privacy by adding outdoor curtains – all of these add texture to your backyard oasis, making it cozy and comfortable.
Decorate with plants
Plants and flowers are another perfect way to decorate your backyard getaway place. The landscaping of your backyard can contribute a lot to the relaxation oasis look you’re going for.
Creating perfect landscaping is not an easy job, especially if you want to make it look as natural as possible. You need to do a lot of planning, you need to choose the right kind of plants that will thrive in your area and you need to take care of them properly.
If all this sounds too complicated, you can always hire a professional to help you plan your ideal backyard landscape.
When you think about it, creating a relaxing backyard is not all that difficult. All you need to know is what relaxing represents to you – what kind of a place comes to your mind when you think about relaxing. And then do your best to make that place come to life in your backyard.
And remember – regardless of how big or small your backyard is, you can always find a way to transform it into a unique relaxation oasis.