When it comes to designing the backyard of your dreams, the possibilities are endless. In fact, they’re so endless that at times, it can feel overwhelming. But when embarking on the journey of building your oasis, you need to get organized. Michelangelo didn't paint the Sistine Chapel without a plan, and you shouldn't design your backyard without one either. Start out with a list of all your favorite ideas. Organize them in a notebook and then slowly start filtering out everything until you arrive at your favorite elements. To get the creative juices flowing, here are some ideas of things you could include:
Koi Pond
A garden pond can be one of the most influential and beautiful elements when it comes to creating a backyard paradise. It provides another dimension for those with backyards too small for a pool. Plus, who doesn't love the sound of a gentle waterfall! You can either build a concrete-filled pond with the help of a professional, or you can just build one yourself. To do it yourself, it just requires a high-quality pond liner designed specifically for garden ponds. The higher the quality, the longer it will last. Also, for a koi pond especially, you want to make sure to have a pond pump like this. Otherwise, the water will stagnate which won’t turn out well for those koi.
Photo credit: www.hgtv.com
English Garden
There are so many different directions you can go with your garden, from an oriental spa to a Tuscan villa. But one of the easiest and most vibrant is an English garden. The English style was built out of a change in the philosophy towards wildlife from fear to a deep appreciate of the natural world. Hence, it is a very lively and uncontrolled environment. Some elements to include would be bridges (over your koi pond!) or benches, natural stone, cobblestone pathways, and English pots. Even something as simple as a sculpture can have a dramatic effect. Whatever you do, focus on allowing the wildlife to take center stage and creating a space that looks almost unkempt in its naturalness.
Outdoor Shower
This is a new and refreshing idea that can add a very unique element to your backyard oasis. It creates the feeling of being in your own private outdoor spa! It is especially great for houses that are close to the beach or have a swimming pool. There are so many ways to get creative with this, depending on what direction you go with your backyard as a whole. If you’re going for the southwestern feel, consider copper and cast-earth walls. If you envision more of a beach ambiance a fun curtain and bright patio furniture lend a light-hearted summery feel. The possibilities are endless! But whatever you do, this is sure to provide a fun and unique addition that will wow your guests.
Photo credit: www.sunset.com
Vegetable Garden
There are so many reasons this is a great idea for your backyard. Aside from the convenience of having vegetables to cook with right out your back door, you are saving money on produce, eating organically and in season, and helping the environment! It is also a great way to have something new to do with your kids and to teach them about gardening. Make sure to pick produce that is in season. Tomatoes, lettuce, and peas are some of the easiest (and the healthiest) to grow. But don’t stop there! Think spices like basil and rosemary and fruit like blueberries and strawberries. Buy a seasonal cookbook to help with recipe ideas and you are on your way.
There are so many fun and unique ideas you can implement in your backyard oasis. Get a good idea of what is out there and then be picky! Stand by your back window and envision what you want to see when you look outside. Whatever it is, make it yours. If you love barbecuing with friends, add an outdoor patio and grill. If you want a cozy haven to curl up with a book, a firepit and hammock could be just the thing. But get creative and have fun!
Bio: Stephanie is a writer on anything that strikes her fancy, from vegan recipes to overseas travel. When she isn't writing for Tsurumi Pump Sales, she can be found in Central Park reading with her dog, Darcy, or exploring vegan restaurants in New York. To learn more about Tsurumi pumps, click here.
