How to Make Your Backyard a Sanctuary
Life is hectic for us all. Most people are constantly juggling some combination of work, family, and social commitments. Then, there are special circumstances when you add schooling, children, or even health concerns to the mix. It can be hard to step away from your responsibilities and take time for yourself. But, having a designated space to unwind and relax can make it so much easier. Make your backyard a sanctuary that you can rely on.
How to Plan Your Backyard Sanctuary
It is important to have your full concept thought through and ready before you start making changes to your backyard. Without a solid plan in place, it can be easy to keep adding to the project. Then, you accidentally end up with a space that feels cramped and overwhelming. But on the other end, you may keep putting off planning for your next steps and end up with a project that takes an exhaustingly long time.
If you’re worried about the planning process, it may be in your best interest to hire a landscaping designer. Landscaping design can be tricky, especially when you’re working with the compact spaces often seen in Chicago. So, having someone in your corner who has years of dedicated experience can help you create a backyard haven with a lot less stress.
Overall Tips for A Backyard Sanctuary
Before we get into specifics, there are a few overarching tips to keep in mind when designing your own oasis. These are important for any space you’re designing for relaxation and comfort, really. But they especially apply when you’re creating your ideal sanctuary.
Personalize Your Sanctuary
While we’ll be giving you some tips to create a dreamy backyard sanctuary, it is important to keep in mind that this space is for you. Take into consideration the items that may make you feel happy or relaxed. For some, this means planting their favorite flower. For others, this means having a game or activity present to have some fun. At the end of the day, you want a space that is unique to you.
Use Natural Materials
Natural materials, like wood or stone, don’t just look pretty. Studies have shown that being around natural products can decrease stress and increase your cognitive abilities. What else can you ask for in a sanctuary? Not to mention, these products tend to have a long life. Thus, your backyard will stay beautiful for a lot longer.
Find Your Theme
As we mentioned, it can be easy for planning to descend into chaos. One thing that can help you find your footing is having a theme for your backyard sanctuary. This can be as simple as a color scheme or as complex as a fantasy landscape. Again, this is entirely personalized to you. While some will thrive in a garden sanctuary, others would prefer an abundance of landscaping rocks to avoid doing any planting.
Backyard Sanctuary Ideas
Alright, time to get down to the nitty-gritty. There is an abundance of backyard accessories and fixtures available to make your space your own personal haven. Take note of the ideas that instantly bring you joy. After all, that is what you’re creating this space for.
Garden Sanctuary
One of the great things about a garden is that it is versatile and customizable. Maybe you want to fill your backyard with beautiful flowers to add a touch of color. Or perhaps you want a vegetable garden to lower grocery costs and provide fresh food for your table. They can be in-ground or raised. They can be filled with annual or perennial plants. Your options are endless.
For those with a green thumb, gardening is excellent for your health. And for those who don’t you can benefit from the positive effects of being surrounded by plant life while letting others do the maintenance for you. Either way, having a garden sanctuary is a surefire way to let you unwind.
Covered Structures
Having a covered structure in your backyard sanctuary is a great way to keep it accessible throughout the year. By creating a pergola or covered patio, you can use your space more often. After all, you’re there to relax, not get soaked by a storm. Having structures like this can also help you play with levels, a tactic landscape designers often use to make a space feel larger.
Soft Lighting
Landscape lighting is a backyard essential. Not only does it add to the overall ambiance of your space, but it also makes your backyard safer. Lighting will allow you to utilize your sanctuary at night without stumbling around in the dark. Plus, if you’ve put effort into creating a beautiful space for yourself, you want to be able to see it properly.
Fire Pit
Speaking of lighting fixtures, fire pits are an excellent backyard accessory for any home. They add unparalleled ambiance to spaces of any size. Also, who doesn’t love a bit of extra warmth to keep their Chicago backyard toasty well into the cooler seasons? You can choose from traditional, gas, or propane fire pits, depending on what fits your needs.
Water Features
The aesthetic appeal and soothing sound of a water feature simply cannot be beat. They elevate any space and provide a uniquely welcoming touch. Adding a pond, a waterfall, or a fountain as a backyard accessory can instantly turn it into an oasis.
Comfortable Seating
Naturally, if you want your backyard to be your sanctuary, you’re going to need a good place to sit. And while style is important to make the space feel like a lovely little hideaway, comfort is of the utmost importance. You want to enjoy the space in peace, not readjust your sitting position constantly due to discomfort. Make sure you test out your furnishings and prioritize feeling supported and comfortable.
Create Your Haven With Arbeen
It is time to make your dream backyard your reality. You deserve a space where you can sit back and soak in your surroundings. No stress. No hassle. Arbeen can make that space a reality. At Arbeen, landscaping is not just a career, it is a passion. Our team is always committed to the highest quality of work and materials to ensure you not only have a great experience, but you gain the most value for your property from our work. Contact us today to turn your backyard into the perfect sanctuary.