Adding an outdoor space to your home can be one of the most rewarding and beneficial exterior improvements you’ll ever make. It offers a safe, enjoyable place for your family to relax and entertain guests year-round.
From lush landscaping with decorative plants and flowers to incorporating comfortable patio furniture pieces in just the right areas, there are more options than ever when designing a unique outdoor oasis.
To ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish, here are five factors to consider before adding an outdoor living space.
Benefits of Adding an Outdoor Living Space
Adding outdoor living space to your home can bring various benefits to your home and lifestyle. From enhancing your curb appeal to improving the value of your home, there are many advantages to adding outdoor living space.
-First, installing an outdoor living space can significantly enhance your home’s aesthetic value. Outdoor spaces are quickly becoming a staple in modern design, and a well-crafted outdoor living area will add style and sophistication to your property. You can choose various materials, including wood, stone, brick, or concrete.
-Next is improved comfort and relaxation; when done right, we can use an outdoor living area to expand your indoor living space. With comfortable furniture and cozy fire pits, you can create a relaxing environment that encourages relaxation and conversation among family members or friends. Adding plants around the area’s perimeter boosts air quality while providing natural beauty that creates a sanctuary-like atmosphere.
-Finally, having an outdoor living space also increases the value of your home. An attractive outdoor area can make potential buyers more interested in purchasing a property and could contribute to higher sale prices because of its increased attractiveness. In addition, it may attract potential buyers to its added functionalities, such as extra storage spaces or a swimming pool if applicable—which could increase the property’s desirability even further!
Factors to Consider Before Getting Started on an outdoor living space
1. Existing Structures and Landscape
Before planning what kind of outdoor living space you want to create, it is important to assess any existing structures or landscape features that may limit the possibilities. It’s also important to consider how much room you have to work with and whether those limits allow for larger furniture pieces or more elaborate landscaping elements.
You should also consider any local building codes or regulations that may affect the scope of your project.
Landscape designs range from lush green spaces ideal for recreation or relaxation to hardscapes such as patios and terraces, which provide public gathering spots or additional seating areas. Understanding existing structures and landscapes can help you plan a better outdoor space.
2. Design Styles & Material Options
Once you have taken the time to assess your landscape and structures, deciding on a design style for your outdoor living space is important. Consider elements like patio furniture, built-in features like fire pits, or even entire outdoor kitchen setups. The materials used for these elements should be carefully considered based on cost, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Additionally, eco-friendly alternatives like composite wood or recycled plastic offer the look of wood with less maintenance required. Of course, you should also consider the climate in your area and choose materials appropriate for your local weather conditions.
The choice of colour also plays a major role in determining the overall design style and material options.
For example, warm colours such as reds and oranges can evoke energy and excitement, while cooler tones like blues and greens are calming and serene.
In addition to colour palettes, texture is another important factor when selecting design styles and material options. Smooth surfaces are often associated with contemporary designs, while rough textures lean towards rustic looks. These details can help create unique environments that reflect your taste and style.
3. Budget Planning & Cost Considerations
Creating an outdoor living space can be a sizable investment, so planning your budget before beginning the project is important. Consider what features you want to be included in the design, such as furniture pieces, built-in features, landscape elements, and more. Considering the cost of materials, labour, and other necessary expenses can help ensure that your project stays within budget and is completed as desired.
It is important to break down the project into its components, assess the estimated cost of each element, and allocate resources appropriately to maximize efficiency and avoid overspending.
4. Local Regulations & Permits
When planning an outdoor living space, it is important to be aware of the local regulations and permits that may be required. Regulations vary from one area to the next, and it is important to familiarize yourself with local laws before starting any project. Depending on the project, some jurisdictions require specific permits to proceed.
For example, if you are planning a complete landscape renovation, you may need a building or demolition permit. You may need a zoning permit to add a deck or patio structure. A variance request may also be required if you plan on changing existing structures like fences or walls. It’s also important to check for any restrictions related to landscaping projects, such as height limits for certain trees or shrubs.
Before starting any outdoor project, it’s always best to contact your local municipality and check city-wide and neighbourhood regulations first. It will help ensure that your project complies with all applicable laws and doesn’t leave you with costly fines or penalties.
5. Lighting & Electrical Needs
Lighting and electrical needs are among the most important elements to consider when planning a space. Without proper lighting, the entire area can be rendered unusable. Good lighting can create warmth, energy, and ambiance in your outdoor space; without it, the place will feel dull and lifeless.
In addition to providing adequate power sources, it’s important to ensure that all wiring is safely installed as per local building codes. Any mistakes can lead to fire hazards or power outages, so double-check that everything is properly installed before use.
About Awnings and More Inc.-
Are you looking for a residential awning company near you? Awnings and More Inc. is your one-stop destination. We focus on offering high-quality customer experience and education with strong communication, accountability, professionalism, and integrity. Our services include retractable awnings, screen systems, pergolas & terraces, patio covers, security shutters, heated mats, deck resurfacing, and garage makeovers for commercial and residential projects. Book online, call us at (587) 317-6933 or email us to schedule a no-obligation consultation for your home or business.