Escape the Ordinary: How to Create an Outdoor Destination in Your Backyard
A holistic landscape design increases the value of a home by at least 12.7percent. The opposite is also true. A poorly designed landscape can actually detract from a home’s value. Therefore, consider these tips to create a holistic landscape.
Consult a Professional
Even if you have a general idea of what you want, it is best to consult a professional. Two heads are always better than one. Discuss with him or her your ideas and listen to their feedback.
Set Your Priorities
After you have created some basic ideas, it is time to get your priorities in order. Picture an overall scheme as everyone‘s desires for their space will be as unique as the person. Hunt through landscaping magazines to see what is attractive to you.
If you have existing problems such as a diseased tree, then take care of those needs first. Taking care of any issues first allows you great freedom when the budget allows for adding something new.
Consider the overall picture. If you have areas that do not drain well, then take care of those areas next. Likewise, if you will eventually need utilities to certain areas of the property, get those installed.
Think about the different areas that you want to create. The front yard is like the foyer to the home, and it definitely leaves a lasting impression. If you love the thought of outdoor entertaining, then consider where your patio or deck should be located. Likewise, if you want to construct an outdoor kitchen get that area in mind.
Tying it all together can be the hardest part. Start by deciding on a focal point. Then, decide how people will move from one area to another. Experts suggest that you start with one geometric pattern and use it throughout. Another great idea is to use a common building material like flagstone throughout the space.
Map it out so that you know how it all flows together. Give yourself permission to dream big.
Create the Budget
Most experts suggest that you spend around 10 percent of your home’s value on landscaping if you are interested in getting a return on your investment. Others that are much more interested in enjoying the space may want to spend more.
Just like you set aside money each month to make your mortgage payment, create an account where you set aside money for your landscaping. That way, it will be there when you are ready to begin landscaping.
There is no need to wait until you have enough to do the entire project. Start with your priorities, and then you can move on from there to create the perfect holistic landscape. After fixing any problem areas and making sure that the utilities are in the right area, decide what area is most important to you because getting these things done will encourage you to keep setting money aside. Soon, you will see your dream project become a reality.
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