Outdoor living spaces provide opportunities to entertain and boost the mental and physical well-being of the family. It’s become 1 of the biggest home improvement trends, especially among homeowners who aim for a cozy and stylish outdoor space that can be used for various purposes. They offer a functional space to relax, enjoy nature, entertain guests, or spend a quiet night under the stars.
While the options for outdoor living space designs are seemingly endless, there are a few mistakes to avoid that can ruin its overall aesthetic and functionality. By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a comfortable and functional outdoor living space that can be enjoyed for years. Learn some of them below:
1. Inconvenient Outdoor Kitchen and Bar
When creating an outdoor living space, it’s prudent to consider how you’d like to use it, along with its features and fixtures. Inconvenient kitchens and bars could take up valuable space that could be used for gardening or playing outside. They could also become an eyesore or a safety hazard if not maintained correctly.
2. Bad Placement of the Pool Area
Adding a swimming pool to your outdoor space can be a great way to escape the summer heat, which means you won’t use it year-round. That said, it should be in an area that won’t make it a safety hazard (e.g., slips and falls) or get in the way.
Instead, plan your pool placement in an area with little to no foot traffic. You can also add a lounge area or landscape strategically to separate the pool from activities that don’t include taking a dip.
3. Not Enough Space
Having enough space allows for comfortable seating and movement. This is especially critical if you plan to use the space for entertaining or hosting gatherings.
Also, having enough surface area can help to create a cohesive and functional design for the outdoor space. For example, if you have an outdoor kitchen, you’ll need adequate counter space for food preparation and serving.
4. Pattern Overload
Perhaps you’ve just ordered quality wooden planters from a trusted pallet supplier in Toronto. When putting them in your outdoor space, avoid pattern overload when combining them with fabrics and other furniture. There are already different patterns through the ever-changing display of colour from foliage and sky. That said, your choice of furniture and fabrics should be simple so the patterns and colours are cohesive.
5. Useless Porch
Make sure that all fixtures you add are functional and used regularly. This includes an open-air porch. Although a porch can provide more than shelter, its use is only ideal when the weather is enjoyable in your location.
6. Not Fitting the Components You’ll Include
Fitting the components before construction allows you to make the necessary adjustments and modifications before the space is built. This helps prevent problems and costly mistakes during the construction process. Overall, fitting the components of an outdoor space before construction can help to ensure that the space is well-designed and built to last. To avoid costly consequences, determine the features and components you need ahead of time.
7. Forgetting About the Weather in Your Area
It’s imperative to consider the weather in your location when planning an outdoor living area design. It can significantly impact the space’s functionality and enjoyment.
For example, if you live in an area with sweltering summers, you’ll want to ensure that your outdoor living space has plenty of shade and ventilation to keep it comfortable. On the other hand, if you live in an area with cold winters, see that the space is well-insulated and protected from the elements to make it usable throughout the year.
The weather will also influence the materials and design features you choose for your outdoor living space, ensuring that it is durable and long-lasting.
8. Using the Wrong Building Materials
Select building materials that provide durability, functionality, and aesthetics. If you choose high-quality, weather-resistant materials, your outdoor living area will withstand the elements and last for many years. On the other hand, if you select low-quality or inappropriate materials, the space may not be functional or durable, and you may need costly repairs or replacements.
9. Not Including Plants
Suppose you’ve thought that you’re done with the concept stage and had included all of the components. However, you feel that something’s missing. Perhaps those are your green friends.
Plants can add colour, texture, and visual interest to the space, making it more attractive and inviting. Adding them to your outdoor living area can create a sense of nature and tranquillity. Plants can also help to improve air quality by removing pollutants and providing oxygen, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for you and your guests.
Finally, plants can provide habitat and food for beneficial insects and wildlife, helping to support local ecosystems and biodiversity. If they become nests for pests and other wildlife, you can always seek the help of experts in wildlife control in Collingwood or squirrel removal in Toronto.
10. Not Hiring a Professional
With the knowledge, experience, and expertise of a professional designer or custom home builder, you will be able to design a space that is functional and built in accordance with local building codes and regulations, which will prevent future issues and legal issues. They can provide valuable insights and suggestions based on their experience working on similar projects. Professionals can also help you avoid common mistakes and pitfalls that can arise during the design and construction process, saving you time, money, and frustration.
