Backyard Retreat Design

Unlike your front yard (where you have to take curb appeal and your neighbors’ best interests into account), you can design your backyard in any way you like.  Thanks to this freedom, however, we meet homeowners every day who are completely lost when it comes to landscaping their backyard.  They know they want a place to relax, but they have no idea where to start.

A backyard retreat can be any size and any style that you want.  Some homeowners transform their entire backyard into an oasis of tranquility, while a small corner with a bench and a few plants is more than enough for others.  Whatever the scope of your vision, there are a few essentials you will want to include:

• Seating: While some people will happily lean against a tree and take a nap, most of us prefer something more comfortable than the ground to sit on.  There are plenty of options to choose from - a wrought iron park bench, a custom-built stone bench, a folding lawn chair, etc.  The type of seating you choose is entirely up to your preference - just make sure you will be comfortable sitting on it for more than a few minutes!

• Things that grow: Being around living greenery is proven to improve our moods, relieve stress, and help us reconnect with ourselves and our environments.  For a truly relaxing atmosphere, be sure to incorporate a few low-maintenance plants in your retreat.  These can be potted, planted in raised beds, or even planted directly in the ground.  Just be sure to choose plants that you enjoy looking at and that don’t require too much care (unless you love gardening - it is NOT relaxing to watch your favorite plants struggle!).



• Things that don’t grow: It can be easy to go overboard on greenery and turn your backyard retreat into a miniature jungle.  As with many things in life, balance is key.  Be sure to offset your plants with hardscaping elements like paving stones, stone planters, or metal decorations.  If you want to get really elaborate, a water feature is an incredibly soothing addition to any outdoor space!

There are a few other elements that, while not essential, can add character and usability to your backyard retreat.  If you plan to use the space in the evenings, lighting (such as hanging rope lights or small ground lanterns) and a heat source (a fire pit or small brick oven, for example) can extend both the hours and the seasons in which you can use the space.  If you love to read when it is raining, you might consider adding a covered area where you can stay dry while enjoying the sound of raindrops on the roof.

These are some general suggestions for a great backyard retreat.  Ultimately, the best design for you is the one that incorporates things that you find relaxing.  Once you have a basic concept in mind, call us to start transforming your backyard into your own private place of relaxation and rejuvenation!