Today’s lifestyles have us utilizing our outdoor spaces more and more. We have all heard of the “outdoor room” concept. So how do we achieve this roomy comfortable feeling in our yards? The professional landscape designer knows there is more to landscaping than plants, bricks, and mulch. To create the perfect atmosphere many elements must be carefully considered.

The walkways and patios need to be laid out to accommodate and encourage seating and conversation areas. Some of these areas should be large enough for the whole family and others for intimate chats. The choice of outdoor furniture should reflect the homes inside décor and create an inviting scene. Retaining walls can be designed with built in seating and planters also creating interesting elements.

Covering a patio with a pergola can really tie to the homes architecture and when covered by flowering vines create an irresistible retreat. The same goes for an arbor over a swing or bench. A beam extending from a home creates a framed view and a place for hanging baskets and art. I always recommend staying with natural woods when adding a carpentry element to the landscape. Wood gains dignity with age and can always be repainted or stained. Plastics and vinyl composites fade and crack in the sun. Think of those white resin chairs everyone throws away.

A water feature element is a great way to add sound to the landscape as well as movement. A Coy pond with a water fall entertains children at parties and becomes a relaxing hobby. When designed and installed properly requires little maintenance. Fountains can add drama to a formal setting. Reflecting pools can create a calming meditation atmosphere.

Gazebos have become popular and are great for pool areas or a place to “get away”. If you purchase them screened it is a great retreat from summer time mosquitoes. A gazebo should be “nestled” into the landscape among plantings. Locate it where it will be used best and not on the farthest point in the yard. You can run electric to the gazebo for a ceiling fan and light. I even have had clients run cable so they could catch a baseball game on a lazy summer afternoon.

Fencing can add privacy to your landscape. Fencing panels can be used as a back drop to a garden or hide a storage area. The style of fence can add to your garden theme by reflecting the homes elements. Gates can be accented by arbors that create a view into and out of the garden. A well placed fence and gate can add an element of surprise or suspense to a garden as well.

These are just a few of the elements you can add to your landscape to create an inviting outdoor room experience. When properly blended into the homes architecture, the planting and hardscape design these elements can make your retreat the sanctuary and family gathering place you have always dreamed of. Start to look for these elements in the landscape and try to experience some. You will know when you are in a well placed and properly designed space. Visit historic homes and arboretums that have also utilized these elements to help you decide which ones are right for you. Garden magazines are also a great resource because many of their advertisers sell these elements. So for your next landscape project consider all the elements in the landscape beyond the plants.