Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Space

HOMES \ REAL ESTATE \\

CREATING THE PERFECT OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

BY BRENDA FISHER, FREDERICK COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ® COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

Outdoor entertaining is one of the best parts of summer. Sitting in your own backyard oasis, sipping a cold drink and enjoying time with friends and family is how many of us would like to spend the warm summer evenings. Creating the perfect outdoor living space to host these special nights is easier than you might think.

“Whether it is an eclectic mix of rustic pieces picked up along the byways, or an area professionally designed to mirror a home’s interior, there is nothing that draws a guest or prospective buyer in more than an inviting outdoor living area,” said Frederick County Association of Realtors ® President Maureen Nichols.

By adding a few key elements, you can create a cozy and inviting space that will be the ultimate place to hang out.

Here are five foolproof tips to help you turn a drab landscape into the ultimate entertaining space.

1. Declutter and clean It’s impossible to relax when dirt, debris and clutter invade your outdoor space. Lawn equipment, yard tools and children’s toys tend to collect in corners. Store these items in your garage or a backyard shed to keep them out of sight, but easily accessible. After you’ve organized the area, sweep the dirt and dust away and give it a good scrubbing. You’ll be left with a blank canvas to work with.

2. Blend your outdoor and indoor space Think of your backyard and patio as an extension of your home’s living space. This helps to create a cohesive feeling so your outdoor living space doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Make sure your indoor and outdoor décor complement one another by using coordinating colors and styles. Adding similar plants, pillows and décor items helps bring everything together.

3. Create cozy sitting areas Make sure your backyard oasis has several spots where family and friends can relax. Making your main sitting area comfortable with soft cushions and pillows on your patio

furniture. Adding a cute bench or a pair of chairs in other

iSTOCKPHOTO.COM / KATARZYNABIALASIEWICZ iSTOCKPHOTO.COM / WESTBURY

20 thefrederickguide.com

// HOMES / REAL ESTATE

iSTOCKPHOTO.COM / IRINA GULYAYEVAiSTOCKPHOTO.COM / HANNAMARIAH

areas of your yard gives your guests the freedom to roam while maintaining a comfortable feeling.

4. Add natural elements Incorporating the four natural elements – air, fire, water and earth – can help soften your backyard space. A backyard fire pit surrounded by comfortable chairs is a great idea. It’s also a good idea to include a water feature such as a fountain or pond. Even in a small space, a tabletop fountain provides the calming sound of water. Don’t forget to add some plants and flowers to the space. Ceiling fans are also a good idea for covered patios to keep the air circulating.

5. Don’t forget about the landscaping A beautifully manicured yard adds the finishing touch to your outdoor living space. Well-maintained flower beds full of vibrant, healthy plants and flowers, and strong, manicured trees and shrubs will add to the natural beauty of your space. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes the simplest designs have the biggest impact.

Your backyard oasis can be as simple or elaborate as you want it to be. There isn’t a right or a wrong when it comes to creating an outdoor living area. The most important thing to remember is to make the space your own.

+

Buying or selling real estate is one of the biggest financial transactions you will have in your lifetime. Make sure you have the benefit of a local Realtor to help you through the process. Just remember, not every real estate agent is a realtor. A Realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors ® and guided by the standards of the Realtors Code of Ethics. Local Frederick County Realtors are members of the Frederick County Association of Realtors ® , the Maryland Realtors ® and the National Association of Realtors ® .

Summer 2019 // FREDERICK COUNTY GUIDE 21