I’ve just been surfing the net to see what’s out there to help homeowners that want to create their own backyard oasis, but need help in the design arena. There is very little out there. In fact I couldn’t find a single blog that was informational, but yet detailed enough to give the homeowner the help they need, so I have decided to make this all about sharing what I have learned with my readers on the subject. I promise not to make this too technical, but advanced enough that it will accomplish your goals.
The absolute best place to start is with a family brainstorming session. Don’t forget to include the kids, if they are old enough to participate. After all if you allow them some input into the process at the beginning you just might get some extra help when it comes to installing….and, an added bonus, they might go outside more often.
It is important to establish the wants of the new landscape as well and the needs, so on the top of a new page for each person, write their name. On the top of another page write “needs”.
Needs will always come before the wants and it’s important to establish that at the beginning with all family members. Don’t think too much about the size of the yard or the budget at this point in time, just open up your thoughts and write down everything that comes to mind. Keep in mind that all yard improvements increase the value of the property and should be viewed as an investment.
On the “needs” page, write down everything that is necessary or what prompted the landscape change in the first place. Was it a lack of seating areas, patio too small that needs increasing. Do you have a drainage issue that needs to be addressed, or is there a lack of parking or storage.
Once you have established the needs, turn to the wants. I would suggest doing a round the table discussion, taking turns giving ideas. Include every idea that comes to mind, no matter how small or large it may seem. It’s amazing what can fit into even the smallest of yards, all be it, sometimes scaled down, but there just the same.
Something else to keep in mind is that a plan is usually developed with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Think about future usage during your brainstorming session. For instance, in 10 years, possibly even 5 years the kids may not use the play area with the swing set anymore. Don’t not put this into the plan because of the limited life of the area. Instead think of things you might like to see that can be incorporated into the area down the road when the kids have outgrown it’s current use. Like turning the play area into a bocci court or outdoor chess board. Utilize your interests to create stunning features that will increase the value of your home and make your family the envy of the block.
Have fun !!