We found some we think you’ll love!
Now that the weather is warm again and we’re getting outside, it’s time to think about what to do in the yard and garden. We looked around to see if there were any trends for 2021…and we found some that we think you’ll love.
Bigger & Better Gardens
With pandemic restrictions, families have been eating at home rather than going out to restaurants. This has resulted in more home gardens. The trend for 2021 is leaning towards bigger and better home gardens, reminiscent of the “victory gardens” of generations past, and embracing healthier eating habits. Keep in mind that gardening is also a great stress reducer and something that can involve the whole family!
One benefit of a bigger garden and a bigger yield is excess food that you can use to help feed neighbors or donate to your local food pantry.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Tired of being cooped up in your home with the entire family? Isn’t everyone? We are seeing a trend towards creating permanent outdoor living spaces, like outdoor living rooms, kitchens, and play and exercise areas. Look for outdoor-hearty furniture and appliances, and fade-resistant, waterproof cushions. Install a fireplace or pizza oven for extra appeal.
Backyard courtyards are also trending, with outdoor living spaces replacing traditional yards. Decks and patios span the house, with multiple entrances from various rooms to cooking, dining, lounging and entertaining areas.
Defined Areas
Creating separate spaces throughout the yard with walkways, plantings, fences, walls, lattice, and seating options offer homeowners private and intimate areas where they can “get away from it all.” Take advantage of views, exposure and lighting when planning.
Urban Oases
Even in small outdoor spaces, people are infusing their lives with plants. They’re building “garden rooms” with houseplants, hanging blooming plants, and installing small (and sometimes vertical) vegetable and herb gardens along with sitting areas where they can enjoy the view. Sustainability is important, with low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plantings.
Backyard Habitats
With fewer cars on the road, the area’s wildlife has made a resurgence. Setting up bird- and bee-friendly gardens, beehives, insect hotels, and feeding stations let you get up close with nature while helping to nurture the various species.
Changing Architecture
Both remodeling and landscape architecture have seen a surge in interest since the pandemic began. People are paying more attention to their homes and their style of living than ever before. Gazebos, arbors, screened porches, decks, pool areas, outdoor living rooms, and water features are in demand. On both the front and back of the home, elegant entranceways and walkways are being installed to match and enhance the home’s architecture.
Texture, Color and Whimsy
Yards no longer consist of “just grass.” Homeowners are looking to include texture and color through stone, metal, pottery, glass, mosaics, and decorative items. Incorporate items from your heritage or travels. Choose things that make you smile. From the simple to the exotic, a bit of whimsy offers delight and serves as a conversation piece.
Added Luxury
Lighting, sound systems and air movement are being incorporated into outdoor landscape and living area designs, along with spa-type features like a sauna, hot tub or plunge tub.
Engage a Professional
For structural or landscaping changes you should consult with, or hire, a professional. While some jobs can be done yourselves, larger ones, or projects involving structures or ground issues should be left to those in the know. There are a number of great landscape architects and landscape designers in our area to choose from.
With the home as the center of our lives, our outdoor living spaces are ever-so more important. And since we’re not traveling, why not put that vacation budget towards a permanent addition to your home!
NINE STEPS FOR DESIGNING YOUR BACKYARD DESIGN
- Decide how you will use the space
- Create a layout before beginning
- Take advantage of natural features & views
- Consider exposure & wind
- Choose hardscapes
- Select plants
- Add comfort features
- Install lighting
- Place outdoor furnishings
