Dream a little, then see what you can afford and have time to maintain, Eventually, you'll want to get real. Be honest about your level of involvement. A yard that requires little work and resources is the holy grail. Think about how to simplify the plans to make this happen for you.
Take Stock of your Property
Do a walk-around and consider what you like and don't like about the space. Make a list of what's salvageable (the 100-year-old oak tree) and what's not (a sagging, rotten deck), as well as how permanent storage (shed, garage, etc.) is positioned and whether it needs to be moved or camouflaged. Don't forget to factor in geographical considerations. If you adore roses but live in an area with a lot of deer, they'll get eaten. Either plant something else or plan a fence.
Is a new Deck in the Plan?
If you want a deck that’s just for cooking with a grill, that’s one thing. If you want a deck that can serve as a center for outdoor entertaining, maybe you need an outdoor kitchen
and bar, complete with plenty of room and outdoor furniture for entertaining. Today’s composite building materials and furnishings can help you extend the size and time you want to spend outside. Simply put, a new deck can transform your backyard.
Know the Rules
Your village or homeowner's association may have specific regulations, like maximum fence height or projects that require permits. Know what's allowed before you begin work, because if you break the rules and get caught, not only will you have to take down your project, but there will be fines involved.
Make a Plan, on Paper
A plan provides a birds-eye view of your overall project, which can then be implemented logically in steps. Draw a bubble to represent generic spaces like a patio, playground, garage and pool, then link the bubbles together with pathways, lawn areas, and gardens. Look
at
the
relationships
between spaces, then draw them to approximate scale. Each individual space should flow into the next, moving people from the front yard to back, from a primary patio to a secondary patio. Entryways, pathways and exits are transition opportunities make a statement or focus attention, or draw people to your next space. You can create the impression of separate spaces by simply changing the material or pattern, or by elevating one portion slightly above the other to establish distinct "rooms" without disrupting the flow." If this effort is not quite your cup of tea, hire a professional, at least for the planning portion. They can open your eyes to brilliant options you may not think of yourself.
Check the Plan From Inside
Outdoor spaces should bring pleasure every day, even when you're inside. When designed properly, your backyard becomes an artwork as you look through your windows. Continued on next page
DECKS CAN BE DESIGNED WITH PRIVACY HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com
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