5 Ways to Transform Your Backyard into a Relaxing Retreat

Many people think of additions and renovations as ways to create more indoor space, like a new bedroom, a remodeled primary bath or a sunroom. But summer is a great time to imagine how expanding your living space outdoors can enhance your home.

Being outside engages all five senses in ways that are hard to match indoors, and it does not mean giving up comfort. Here is how to design an outdoor space that is both relaxing and great for entertaining.

1. Sight

Study sight lines from every angle, whether you want a view of the lake from inside or a clear line of sight to kids and guests. Plenty of energy efficient windows and sliding doors help. Also check that you maintain privacy, since great views out should not mean passersby can see in.

• Create visual interest with paver patterns, grass and gravel, colored tile, herringbone brick or outdoor rugs.
• Define zones for lounging, dining and entertaining.
• Layer lighting with string lights, sconces, posts and path lights.
• Add privacy with vines, shades, curtains, screens, fencing and landscaping. Sloped lake lots can even support multi-tiered designs.

2. Sound

Road noise, loud boats or neighbors' music can drown out the sounds of nature. A small waterfall or recirculating creek adds soothing sound, and outdoor speakers can mask unwanted noise or play your favorite music.

3. Smell

Add plants and flowers with pleasant, not overpowering, scents. Place fire pits, fireplaces and grills far enough from seating and dining areas that smoke does not bother guests.

4. Taste

Make food and drinks easy to reach without constant trips inside. Consider an outdoor tap, refrigerator and dry storage. If you are adding plumbing for a sink, include a water fountain for refilling bottles, which cuts down on single-use plastic that too often ends up in our lakes.

5. Touch

North Georgia summers bring plenty of hot, humid days. Add durable outdoor fans under covered areas to move air and keep bugs away. For cooler evenings, built-in porch heaters keep everyone comfortable when a fire feature is not enough.

Create Your Outdoor Oasis

With so many options, a design-build firm can help you set priorities and stay on budget, giving you an outdoor space that fits your lifestyle for years to come. Get more ideas in our post on outdoor additions, then call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.