Spring is on its way, and everyone is anxious to get outdoors! Believe it or not, now is the time to get your outdoor projects started. Check out these ideas for backyard projects for you to take on this year!
1) Outdoor Kitchens
Instead of being stuck inside making a meal while everyone is outside, join in on the fun by adding an outdoor kitchen! An outdoor kitchen creates an amazing gathering space for friends and family. Incorporating your grill into a countertop area gives you plenty of prep space and eliminates the need for multiple trips back inside.
Other things to consider for your outdoor kitchen design could be a pizza oven, a TV, or an outdoor sound system to create a fun atmosphere. Depending on the setup you have, you can even include a sink, dishwasher, and refrigerator.
2) Three Season Porches
Create a space that’s an extension of your home! If you want to get even more use out of your deck, consider converting it to a three season porch.
“A three season porch can perfectly blend the indoors with the outdoors,” said Kayleigh Queoff, one of JBDB’s designers. Screening in your outdoor space lets you enjoy the fresh air, without bugs, rain, or harsh sunlight to drive you back inside.
Add a TV to your three season porch design to enjoy a family movie night without worrying about mosquitoes. A cozy outdoor fireplace adds soft lighting in the evenings and a little warmth on chilly nights.
3) Custom Outdoor Fire Pits
If you’re looking for the perfect place to toast marshmallows and tell stories with friends, you’ll definitely want to add a fire pit to your outdoor living space.
“There are a lot of ways to make a fire pit area unique,” said JBDB designer Sydney Monson. “Depending on the type of materials you use, you can create a look that fits your style, whether it’s modern, classic, or rustic.”
4) Pergolas and Pavilions
Adding a pergola or pavilion is a great way to define an outdoor living area. A pavilion provides more cover from the elements but still gives you open air space; where a pergola helps define your outdoor living space but with a more open structure. You can add a pergola to a deck or a patio area to give it a facelift. “Pergolas not only add a stylistic element to your outdoor living spaces, but they also provide some shade, too,” Kayleigh said.
There are plenty of options to consider when designing a custom pergola or pavilion. Pergolas/pavilions can be made of wood or composite materials. String up some lights to create a cozy atmosphere, or use hanging baskets for climbing plants for more of a garden feel. With a professional’s help, you can even hang a ceiling fan or light fixture to truly make it your own!
