Serenity could be as close as your own backyard. Imagine creating
a peaceful refuge just outside your door with a few simple additions
to your property, and a little bit of creative landscaping. Turn outdoor
spaces into tranquil, serene escapes, with these five inspiring design
tips.
Design your backyard retreat with year-round usability in mind. This
might mean adding an outdoor fan to circulate cool air in the summer,
or a fire pit to warm things up in winter. Plan for at least
part of your private oasis to be shaded, planting shrubs and trees as
necessary, and consider an awning or gazebo so that part of the space
can be enjoyed in rainy weather.
With a reputation for evoking a sense of calm, water features
are essential to any serenity garden, or personal outdoor sanctuary.
Depending on the size of your yard and your personal preferences, water
features as small as fountains, and as large as infinity pools might
be used. A bird bath could attract feathered friends to the space, or
an
in-ground hot tub could become a favorite place
to soothe tired muscles or congregate with friends.
No tranquil escape is complete without lots of comfortable
seating. Group outdoor furniture into conversation-ready seating for
relaxing with friends, and add a special chaise lounge or hanging bed
for quiet times enjoyed alone. Make seating even more inviting and conducive
to relaxation with outdoor, all-weather cushions, and add a storage
chest close-by indoors full of cozy throws for chilly evenings.
Harsh security lights are not conducive to backyard serenity. But
by adding subtler landscape lighting, you can illuminate pathways
and highlight water features, trees or statuary. Twinkle lights, lanterns,
and candles set in
hurricane lamps, are other beautiful lighting options
that will lend a sense of quiet ambiance to any outdoor evening space.
Especially if you plan to cook or entertain groups outdoors, be sure
there is sufficient lighting to maneuver safely throughout the yard.
Sometimes the littlest things can bring us the greatest peace
of mind. Accessorizing is just as important outdoors as it is inside.
A simple flower in a ceramic vase, or a collection of driftwood and
beach stones, or a meditative statue or figurine might be just the thing
to finish off your space and create a resort-like sense of peace.
Achieve an atmosphere of calm and create your very own escape from
everyday stresses by making your yard into an inviting, relaxing retreat.
