Getting outdoors and being in nature has shown to have many positive health benefits. So why not embrace and enjoy the warmth of the season while it is here? Extend your home from the inside and utilize your outdoor space. Why can’t it be beautiful too?!
When creating that oasis these are some things to consider….
Function
First deciding how you want to use your space and WHO will be using it is an important step. Just as designing the interior of your home you need to consider the outside in the same way. This will help you create zones and a layout just as you would a floor plan (taking into consideration any fixed or permanent structures).
Lighting
YES! Vitamin SUNSHINE… but is it in the right location at the right time of day? This can come into play when deciding the function of your space. Perhaps – you have too much sun and need to incorporate a structure for some shade.Â
Aside from natural light, consider some artificial lighting as well. There are many great options available in both solar and electrical today and it will help with not only the practical aspect, it will enhance the beauty of your oasis. Twinkle lights, sitting by the fire as the sun goes down with a glass of wine can be very relaxing!
Color
Color is essential, seductive and pervasive. There is also an inescapable emotional aspect to color. Whether your planting flowers, a garden, trees, deciding on pillows and furniture, paint or stain colors, take into consideration what is already in place. What color is the exterior of your home? Is there a connection to what you have on in the interior of your home? Now, I’m not saying your exterior needs to be identical to the interior, but creating a harmonic flow from one space to the next will have a much greater impact.Â
Smells
Aromatic trees, shrubs, flowers and herbs can make stepping out into your oasis that much more special. Take some time and put a little thought into what smells evoke that feeling of relaxation or sense wellbeing for you. You can also use smells to keep pesky bugs away! Lavender can be wonderful to plant in pots on your deck to keep the mosquito’s from buzzing around.
Sound
Nature brings us many sounds on its own when enjoying the outdoors but we can expand from that. The sound of flowing water trickling along can be soothing and calming, adding a water feature to your oasis brings relaxation and beauty.Â
Do you love music? I DO! Outdoor speakers are a wonderful addition when dining, or entertaining outdoors. There are many available that can fit naturally into your landscape or decor – even speakers that look like stones!
Going beyond visual when designing your outdoor space and considering all your senses will enhance your oasis so you enjoy it even more. Happy Designing!
