People often forget that their backyard counts as a living space. Even with dirt, wildlife, and weather in the environment, you can create a dream outdoor living space that yields lasting memories and greater value to your home.
The key is to figure out what you and your loved ones would enjoy doing the most in your backyard. Swim? Barbecue? Maybe a little of both during the day, followed by cozy fireside quality time at night? Give yourself permission to be creative, and you can turn your backyard into space as playful and comfortable as anything you find indoors.
Here are some amenity ideas to fuel your vision for a dream outdoor living space:
- Outdoor Kitchens and Serving Areas
- Fire Pits and Fireplaces
- Inground Pools
- Concrete Patios and Pool Decks
- Driveways
Outdoor Kitchens and Serving Areas
The way you prepare and share meals makes a huge impact on your feeling of home. Therefore, if you want to optimize your backyard’s ability to gather and nourish, equip it with an outdoor kitchen or serving space.
An outdoor kitchen made from strong, weather-resistant materials gives you the proper space to slice, dice, and spice right next to the grill. Be careful, though. The whole neighborhood may come knocking once they get a whiff of your brisket and shrimp skewers! And don’t neglect the beverage portion of the meals. It’s hard to beat the fellowship created at a beautifully-crafted serving area for grownups and kids on those hot summer days.
Fire Pits and Fireplaces
Between counting stars and catching fireflies, the backyard is primed for so many priceless moments after sunset. So why not extend the recreation into the evening with the help of a custom fire pit or fireplace?
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are attractive focal points in your backyard. Whether your taste is classic or contemporary, this feature is a comforting source of light and warmth perfect for roasting marshmallows or simply enjoying a peaceful moment in the crisp evening air.
Inground Pools
Who doesn’t dream of having a pool at one point or another? An inground pool where you can swim like Phelps or enjoy a lazy float is the ultimate fantasy.
Inground pools, by far, are the most customizable. Whether you prefer gunite or vinyl liner, bright blue or deep jade, rectangular or curved, the design possibilities are endless.
Concrete Patios and Pool Decks
Patios and pool decks can be stylish, functional destinations in your backyard – not just spaces in between. The smooth, concrete surface makes them the perfect setting for all your picnics and parties where guests can splash, eat, and, occasionally, spill their drink without needing major cleanup.
When we think of concrete, we usually picture the gray, pedestrian stuff we see lining the street. Stamped concrete, on the other hand, comes in a wide variety of rich colors and patterns that add durable elegance to your patio and/or pool deck.
Driveways
Your driveway isn’t just the place where you park. It’s the entry to your favorite retreat – home. A refinished driveway is one of the most effective ways to boost your home’s curb appeal and recreation factor.
After all, if you’re going to install that basketball hoop above the garage, you better make sure the playing surface is even and built to last. Also, remember stamped concrete if you’re going for an aesthetic win. Pick out a color and pattern that complements your home’s exterior, and your drive will always end with a thought of “welcome home.”
What will go in your dream outdoor living space?
If you see more patio picnics or pool parties in your future, Speck USA is here to help your dream outdoor living space come true. Visit our outdoor spaces & landscapes page for more inspiration. Already have a pool? Reach out to our pool maintenance & services team and ask about weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly pool route service. With Speck USA, you can build and maintain all your favorite spaces with ease.
