Creating the Perfect Outdoor Living Space
For those who have a little extra room outside, you might be considering creating an outdoor living space and this would be a good move. In the summer, you would be allowed more room for gatherings and it allows you to make more of your home. Furthermore, it will add charm and value to your home. In truth, it opens up many doors for you and your family/friends.
Of course, the amount that you can do with your outdoor living space will completely depend on what space you have available. Whilst some might be confined to a small, flat area, others may have the luxury of spreading the living room over many different levels. For example, a deck could lead from the house which then leads to a patio area. When many people consider an outdoor living space, they soon put the idea to bed because they restrict themselves in their imagination.
Ultimately, the space belongs to you so you can do whatever you wish with it. If you allow yourself to get really involved, this can be a fun and creative process as you turn an old, unused space into a gathering area for events. Whether you wish to install a fireplace with some comfortable furniture or maybe even a second kitchen with an opportunity to cook with the grill and make space for a fridge, the opportunity is available.
Nowadays, there are many options for weather-resistant furniture including easy chairs, sofas, and lounge chairs. As well as this, you could even install seat walls and benches to provide an attractive element in addition to the functionality of the item. If you are clever, you could even use the furniture to provide more storage.
Once you have this base, you can start to introduce various amenities such as a TV, radio, reading chair, mini-fridge, lamp, laptop, etc. For the slightly colder months, why not consider an outdoor fireplace as we suggested a little earlier? Often, there is a misconception that comes with these types of fireplaces that they have to run on gas but you can also find wood-burning models too. If you don’t have room for a full fireplace, you could also look into tabletop fireplaces or fire pits.
Regardless of what accessories you choose, always pay attention to what’s beneath you because the decking can often make or break an outdoor living room. When looking at flooring, be sure to consider whether your space will be covered or uncovered as this will greatly affect your decision. After this, you can assess your budget, style, quality, and the maintenance required to find the right flooring. Before jumping into a decision, consider ceramic, red cedar, vinyl, composite, plastic, and wood. When you dig a little deeper, you will find a whole host of styles, sizes, and colours to meet your needs and create an outdoor living space you can be proud of!
- Published in Landscape Design, Outdoor Living
Patio Makeover – 5 Brilliant ideas for a Redo
Stunning patio inspiration is available to us at our fingertips, but which route should we go with when doing a patio makeover? Have you ever thought of your patio as the newest room in your house? If you shift your thinking, this “new room” opens up possibilities for designing that space you always desired– even if it is outdoors!
Patio Makeover #1 – Outdoor Dining Room
If you entertain regularly with large meals, perhaps your home could use one more dining room. The patio can be transformed into an elegant dining space with a few practical details. Of course, you will definitely need to have an outdoor dining table and chairs. In addition, a space-defining structure– whether informal or formal– helps to set off the new room. The ideal finishing touch to this patio makeover is an outdoor chandelier.
Patio Makeover #2 – Outdoor Kitchen
When you love to entertain large groups, you may discover that a single kitchen never quite seems to be sufficient. Your patio makeover can end up being that extra kitchen you always wished for. Limitless choices are plentiful for you to surround your outdoor space with all the amenities of a working kitchen. Cook in style, and double your household kitchen options!
Patio Makeover #3 – Outdoor Living Area
Even if your home does not offer an expansive home entertainment layout, you can take advantage of your patio and yard, and there really is no limit. Offer plenty of places to take a seat, socialize, and get together by tactically placing your outdoor seating in conversation groupings. Fire pits, water features and outdoor televisions are enjoyable ways to encourage your guests to have a great time while they delight in your outdoor living area.
Patio Makever #4 – Outdoor Living Room
Why have one living room when you can have two and truly relax in the great outdoors? Outdoor fabrics, weather-friendly cushions, and waterproof furnishings have been revolutionized for practicality and strength, making an outdoor living room much more practical. Design your space to consist of a sofa or sectional, side chairs, a coffee table, and possibly a fireplace, and you’ll possess all the comforts of home– with stars as your ceiling.
Patio Makeover #5 – Outdoor Bedroom
Is there anything more indulgent than going to sleep under the stars? And with an outdoor bedroom on your patio area, you certainly do not have to “rough it.” Hanging daybeds or plush exterior daybeds make for glamorous napping spots. Keep eye-catching outdoor storage nearby to house comfortable blankets and pillows, and you are ready for a nap at any time. The most important part of an outdoor bedroom is shutting down long enough to enjoy it!
Do you need a patio makeover? From concept to completion we can make your landscaping dreams a reality. Call San Diego Landcare Systems at 760-788-8140.
- Published in Landscaping
Landscape Design Company – 5 Reasons to Hire One
No matter what time of year it is, you want your yard to look excellent. And if you can do the task yourself, that’s fantastic. But if you want it done and done right, then a landscape design company is who you must call. Check out 5 advantages of doing so.
Add Color
If you wish to help your yard stand apart, it’s a good idea to consider flowers. Even if you do not have a green thumb, you can still delight in the look of a wonderful and colorful yard. That’s due to the fact that a landscape design company can suggest the perfect flowers for you along with program of ways to upkeep them. And if you do not wish to do that, plenty of landscapers will carry out upkeep concerns for you so that your yard stays looking fantastic all year round.
Save Time
Unless you’re just a huge fan of backyard work, you will not want to go out in the heat and work on the yard. Although you want your place to look excellent, there’s never a great time to do the task. Luckily, you don’t have to stress over such information if you decide to have a professional service look after it. These specialists will come out, assess your property and talk with you on a variety of ideas that can be brought to life outside your home. The work will be done and you can concentrate on taking pleasure in the view.
Plant Trees
Flowers are a big part of a good-looking yard. Yet, nice, lush trees can likewise include a striking look for your yard. Your landscape design company can help you position trees in the right place so that you can get the shade along with beauty you want. There are different trees to choose from and a professional can assist you make the very best choice for you needs. Whether you want smaller trees planted in certain places or you are imagining something bigger, a pro can aid you.
Do Away with Bugs
In addition to enhancing your yard, many landscape design companies likewise can help in helping eliminate bugs on your property. If you’re sick of pesky mosquitoes and other irritating insects, call a pro so that you can start taking pleasure in going outside once more. This way, you won’t need to fret about bug spray or hanging up mosquito netting. Having the ideal system set up will permit you to stop seeming like a prisoner in your own home. Plus, these systems are safe for pets along with your family.
A Landscape Design Company Can Create a Better Outdoor Experience
When you have a gorgeous yard to look at, it can be tough not to wish to get out and have a few individuals over. That’s why getting landscape design is such a smart idea. You can imagine a certain feel and look you desire, and then have a professional make it a fact for you. Best of all, you can be a part of the procedure and feel confident that you’ll get the results you’re wishing for. Family and friends won’t have the ability to get enough of visiting your home.
- Published in Landscape Design
Creating a Natural Landscape Design
Natural landscape design for your outdoors is a means to plan, manipulate and construct natural surroundings for year round pleasure. With natural paths, shading, and native plants that keep your outdoor space beautiful and are the essential elements of natural aspect of the landscape design.
Hire Professionals for Natural Landscape Design
Imaginative issue solving and thoughtful application are exactly what make natural landscape design excellent. The business or group of professionals that you decide to work with your space most likely concentrated on either industrial or domestic “curb appeal”. Their backgrounds allow them the understanding to recover, deal with, and keep the quality of soil, turf, plants, and trees that add lovely foliage to your exterior. These experts combine their knowledge of what each living plant needs and their understanding of your vision for your space. Whether you are looking for a low upkeep or abundant blossoming garden that is both inviting and visually attractive, they can create the landscape design of your dreams with the critical elements of soil, light, and watering.
Before your landscape designer can complete the first drawing or computer mock up of your future outside beautification task, they have to understand exactly what you have to work with. First, the quality of soil that you have in your backyard is a huge determining consideration whether or not anything will sprout or flourish there. You may have sand, silt (mud), or clay. When that has been identified, native plants can be chosen to accommodate your local soil quality. Second, the level of your yard space is vital. You might have a small or considerable slope, or several levels that receive various quantities of light and water throughout day. The levels in your yard will likewise influence the quality of soil in one location over another. The soil at the end of the slope will be richer than higher elevation areas that have experienced significant runoff. You may have noticed these problems in your lawn(s) throughout the years but natural landscape design specialists will rescue any lawn by compensating for exactly what it is lacking.
There is a method to accomplish your perfect yard with astute planning and layout that makes improvements to your natural space while making it sustainable. The specialists get all types of request for certain colors, structures, and levels of foliage display, and they are all possible as long as the three thriving elements (sun, water, food) exist. Landscape design build specialists may need to bring in healthier soil or cut down a few of your trees in order to expose more natural light. You might take pleasure in the half day of shade every day, so your landscape design can involve lawn and plants that grow in the shade too. All of the approaches utilized to supply you with the backyard space that you need are a part of the procedure of landscape design that keeps each plant healthy year round whether it is inactive or in full bloom.
- Published in Landscape Design
Water Gardens And Pools That Are Aesthetically Pleasing
Water gardens or garden pools have become one of the most popular water features of landscape design in the United States. Water gardens are visually relaxing and seem to connect folks to nature. The aesthetic value of water gardens is enhanced by the almost limitless range of design and planting options that make each one a distinct and personal creation.
The place of the water garden is important to its ecology and maintenance, as well as to your enjoyment of it. Sunlight is needed for plant photosynthesis. Plants are important to the water garden’s ecology due to the fact that they produce oxygen, get rid of and recycle nutrients, and offer shade and concealing places for fish and other aquatic residents. A water garden needs to be placed in a location that will receive a minimum of 6 hours of sunshine each day.
However, direct sun at mid-day throughout the warmest months can cause overheating in shallow pools. Locating the water garden so that it can be seen from your house will enhance your enjoyment and enable you to monitor it. You will be able to manage access to the water garden to make sure of the safety of children. An great view of the water garden will likewise help you identify undesirable visitors such as predators.
Water gardens must not be located over utility services. Contact energy bill companies for the location of underground lines. Water gardens should not be located directly under trees since roots hamper excavation and may cause structural damage later.Also leaves foul up the water and over-hanging branches might drop hazardous compounds into the water garden.
The depth of a water garden depends on design and local climate. Many year-round outdoor water gardens have an area a minimum of 3 or 4 feet deep that does not freeze in the winter and offers fish a cool retreat throughout hot weather. Big koi carp, in particular, have the tendency to lose color and end up being stressed out if they do not have a cool location to stay during heat.
Constructing Water Gardens
Building of a water garden can be easy or complex. Water gardens built of fiberglass or concrete take considerable design ability. Earthen and plastic liner pools need less building skills or experience.
Many commercial companies selling water garden equipment offer consulting services on design, building and maintenance. Use your own knowledge and imagination to design a water garden reflecting your creativity and taste.
Water gardens can be fairly expensive to construct and maintain. The cost of design differs with size and the products that are used, however it can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Design plans should be reviewed by local government agencies to guarantee that the proposed pool abides by all building regulations.
Water gardens may be irregular or geometric in shape. Irregularly shaped water gardens have a natural appearance, while the geometric shapes appear more formal. Prior to you beginning construction, try setting out possible water garden designs using a garden hose or rope.
Whether your water garden is a plastic tub or a visual marvel, excellent water quality is important. Poor quality water makes the water garden less attractive and can damage fish and plants. Once the essentials of water quality are known, maintenance will be reduced to a minimum.
The first consideration is a supply of good quality water to fill the pool. The most common sources are city water and well water. Surface area water from a creek or pond is not recommended as it might include contaminants, sickness and wild fish, any of which might damage the water garden’s ecosystem. If city water is utilized it has to be dechlorinated before adding fish and plants.
One common error is stocking a lot of fish. A water garden is suitable for fish just as long as it can provide sufficient oxygen and disintegrate the wastes produced. The variety of fish the water garden can support depends upon factors such as the size of the water garden, size of the fish, temperature level, amount of sunshine the water garden gets, whether or not aeration is supplied, and how well the natural or artificial filtration system removes wastes.
A water garden is a remarkable way to take pleasure in the natural beauty of water plants and animals and acquire a better understanding of the complexities of aquatic environments. Designing the water garden and its environments is an outlet for creative expression and enables metropolitan dwellers to add a peaceful, natural environment to their yards.
- Published in Fountains and Water Features, Landscaping
Residential Landscape Design
A residential landscape is not just about having a well-tended lawn. A residential landscape is about making a statement and letting your personality shine through for the world to see in a single glance. It is scenery that can make your garden, lawn and yard look sensational and can help it to stand out from the crowd.
Some people have a knack for creating and designing their own landscapes while others need help in this area. If you are one of the latter then you need to hire landscape contractors that can beautify your surroundings and can give your property the appearance that you want it to have.
Landscape designs can be on a large scale or a small scale. It also depends on how much land you have, the ideas you have for it and how elaborate or simple you want it to be. It also has to do with the budget you have for your residential landscape. Regardless of which you choose, it is important that you make some plans before you call the contractors. Have a vision for your landscape and then communicate it to the landscape experts when you schedule a consultation with them.
Talk to a Landscape Designer Before Starting Residential Landscape Design
Mistakes can occur as a result of faulty planning and that is not what you want. If you are new to the world of residential landscapes then you need to do some studying up on the topic. Speak with a local landscape designer about your plans and get some advice from someone who has been in the business for quite some time.
What can you do to create a landscape that is eye catching, well-planned out and simply lovely to behold? Diversity is important. You want to have a landscape that looks great all 12 months of the year. To do this you need to choose an array of plants and flowers that will complement your landscape. Different plants bloom at different times throughout the year and that is why you should carefully choose a variety and spread them out in various areas of your front, back and side lawns. Using only one kind of plant is uniform but also one-dimensional and can be downright boring.
Do you know anyone whose yard is overflowing with ornaments such as ceramic frogs, gnomes and other types of decorating items? There is nothing wrong with having a few of these positioned strategically about your yard, but too many can ruin your residential landscape design because they crowd out other things, such as plants, flowers, and shrubs. Ornamentation is fine, but do it with a light touch. Instead of having a number of small ornaments you might want to choose one or two larger ones.
If you like statues then select modern looking ones as opposed to Greek or Roman ones. White sculptures can work in some yards, but do not blend well in others. Depending upon the colors in your yard a bronze colored statue or sculpture could be a nice touch.
When selecting plants do not just think of the color of them. Consider the environment and select ones that will thrive on your property. Think about the type of soil you have, what areas of the lawn receive the most sun and the ones that receive the most shade, as well as the kind of weather that the region you live in is prone to. From there choose your plants.
Related articles across the web
- Published in Landscape Design
A Stone Outdoor Fireplace adds Elegance to Your Backyard
Adding a stone outdoor fireplace to your backyard space offers heat and sophistication. While bonfires and chimneas are outstanding starters, real stone fireplaces are more sophisticated, durable and they will likely enhance the value of your home. Including a real stone fireplace to your patio will just make it inviting. In addition, a genuine fireplace is more secure and longer long lasting than chimneas or fire pits.
How can you obtain the sophistication and richness of a stone outdoor fireplace at an affordable price? The answer is thin veneer. Real stone veneer can be placed as a facing on fire deserving bricks or fire stones and no one will think you did not build the entire fireplace with solid stones. Why? Well, just since thin stone veneers are made with real stones. They are not cultured stones. This means they are more fire resistant, they resist chipping and fading. As well as if they do get cracked, the color is solid right through the stone due to the fact that they are real stones.
Why Add a Stone Outdoor Fireplace?
Fireplaces can extend the seasons. With a comfortable fireplace you and your family and friends can spend cool spring evenings and late fall nights by a cozy fire exterior. Just imagine drinking hot tea or cocoa, roasting marshmallows and consuming smores by a real stone fireplace in your outdoor living space. You’ll seem like you are indoors, all warm and cozy, yet you can delight in the smells and sounds of the gorgeous outdoor evenings with your loved ones. Winter days can also be pleasurable to invest by your outdoor stone fireplace if you reside in milder environments.
Cool summer nights can make remarkable dinner celebrations. A stone fireplace can set the tone for the whole evening. Switch on some pleasant music and let the crackling of the fire draw your visitors together. Or sit out in the quiet on your own or with your loved ones and delight in a quiet night just interrupted by the gentle crackle of an actual fireplace.
Unlike fire pits or chimneas, stone fireplaces can be safer for friends and family to be around. Fire pits can be dangerous to children while chimneas can be quickly knocked over. Fortunately, a well constructed fireplace with an iron screen can secure your household from stimulates and while the stone walls can secure individuals from getting burned if they accidently lean against it.
How To Use Veneer
Natural thin stone veneer is utilized exactly like fake stones. Just build a fireplace with inexpensive fire bricks or fire stones according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then set up the stone veneer on the outside of the structure. Nobody will be able to tell if you made use of 1 and 1/2 inch veneer or 10 inch stones. Your key will be safe and your pocket book will be fatter.
Stone veneer comes in a variety of designs from square cuts, round cuts, and even natural looking stones. They cost a lot less to purchase and are easier to install than actual fireplace stones. You can choose form a range of colors and appearances too. They look like genuine stones because they are actual stones quarried from Wisconsin, Michigan, and Arizona pits.
Stone veneer is shipped in simple to manage corrugated plastic boxes. They are just as easy to set up and preserve as fake veneers. Simply prepare the surface area, apply the mortar, then apply the stone and mortar between.
Adding A Stone Outdoor Fireplace
If you already have a fireplace in your backyard or patio and even if you’ve been considering setting up one, a natural thin stone veneer is the method to go. You will not need to change an old fireplace, simply “thin stone veneer it” instead.
However above all else, among the greatest advantages is that you will have less work and less cost when you build a brand-new fireplace by utilizing this stone. A natural stone fireplace will include beauty, security and a sense of class to your patio or backyard. Reduce your costs today using natural thin stone veneer when you build your stone fireplace.
Related articles across the web
- Published in Landscaping, Outdoor Fireplaces
Building a Patio in San Diego CA
Before building a patio you need to believe thoroughly about exactly what you want to get from it.
6 things to think about prior to building a patio.
- Area. Many individuals assume a patio must butt as much as the back of their home however a stand alone patio, possibly in the middle of the yard or hidden among the flower beds has the unique advantage of all the time sun. If the back of your house is in shade throughout the afternoons you need to consider a stand alone patio, especially if sun luster is your thing.
- Size. At the moment your concept might be to create a little patio that you can retreat to from inside. If there is a possibility though that you may put your home on the market sometime in the future you need to build a patio as huge as your space and spending plan permits. Individuals live longer than before and with a lot more free time offered, it is the garden we moving towards. The patio is now an outdoor living-room with cooking devices, comfy seating, possibly a built in bar or even an outdoor fireplace. A large, well developed patio will offer your home additional charm when it goes on the market.
- Style. Your patio wishes to blend in with both your house and your garden. Blue tiles might look excellent with a white washed villa in the Mediterranean but will it at your home? Select a color that blends in with the color of your house. If your garden is formal with straight edges then go for pavers. If your garden has a random landscape, think about natural stone or insane paving.
- Design. Even if you are having your patio developed by a contractor you must still be able to communicate to him what you need with sketches or better still, a scaled drawing. If you are going to build a patio yourself, prevent curves. Aim to make the final size match the size of your chosen paver so that as few cuts as possible are required.
- Plan Ahead. An excellent concept is to purchase all your patio furnishings prior to the build starts but AFTER you have actually chosen a style. Establish your furnishings where you envision it will go once the patio is constructed. By doing this you will have the ability to see to it you have developed a patio with sufficient room for your needs.
- Finishing touches. Gone are the days of fold deck chairs. Patio furniture has begun leaps and bounds over the last few years due to require. It is comfortable, hard wearing and fashion mindful. Pick a color that suits your selected paver. You might likewise consider an outdoor fireplace or chiminea as a centerpiece. A water feature brings serenity to the patio and they can be found in all shapes, designs and sizes. Another thing I would advise is a patio heating unit for when the celebration remains in full swing but the sun is setting quickly.
Related articles across the web
- Published in Landscaping, Patios
6 Tips to Better Curb Appeal
Maximize Your Curb Appeal with These Landscaping Tips
Curb appeal that makes a great first impression to not only you and your neighbors, but also potential home buyers, can increase your chances of selling your home. Maximize your curb appeal by upping your landscape game, to ultimately add value to your home. If you want your home to make a lasting first impression, landscaping is one of the easiest and most affordable ways.
Present a Clear Path
Curb appeal obviously begins at the curb and carries right to the front door. Make sure the entryway to your home is welcoming and clearly defined.
Create a Welcome Landing
Welcome visitors with a warm entrance by creating a comfortable landing. A sitting area, some statuary and even some water features will make your home look inviting and draw in potential buyers.
Don’t Forget the Front Door
Your home’s front entry is the focal point of its curb appeal. Give your front door a blast of color with paint or by installing a custom fiberglass or wood door. Make sure the knob and door fixtures are polished and clean.
Keep Your Landscape Clean
Your landscaping will get dirty over time, and can result in an unkempt exterior. Keep your landscaping features clean and shiny by hiring a professional to pressure wash your sidewalk, driveway and hardscape.
Add Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting
Adding lighting is another great way to increase your home’s curb appeal. Use path lights to light the way, create stunning visuals by highlighting a tree or focal point, illuminate street numbers and mount wall lights to give your home an extra glow.
Make Your Entrance Colorful
Plants and shrubs can add instant appeal to a home’s curb appeal. Trees such as a crape myrtle are excellent for San Diego area homes. They love a hot, sunny climate, can withstand drought and bloom in summer when most trees have ended their show. Look for other plants that are drought tolerant and colorful.
Related articles across the web
- Published in Curb Appeal, Landscaping
Garden Design and Landscape Construction
San Diego Landcare Systems is a Design Build landscape construction firm. We work with you to design and create a landscape that meets and exceeds your expectations.
As a Design Build landscaping company in San Diego we are able to take your project from idea to completion. We do this with our own landscape designers, installers and contractors. This way, you the client are only working with one company throughout the process. For example you may wish to do an entire landscape renovation. You have decided to add a swimming pool, a new patio with a patio cover, an outdoor kitchen and a new look to your garden area. We can do it all! You don’t need to hire a swimming pool builder, stone mason, landscape installer, landscape contractor, patio builder etc.
There are some great advantages to working with one company for design and landscape construction.
- There is continuity from design to completion.
- Scheduling is easier. Your project will be on time.
- Costs are easier to control, saving you money.
- Communication with one project manager is much better than communicating with several.
So What is Landscape Construction?
Landscape construction involves two major categories: Hardscapes and Softscapes.
Hardscapes:
Hardscapes are any man-made or non-living fixtures in your landscape. These include retaining walls, decks, stone pavers, outdoor kitchens, outdoor structures (pergolas, gazebos, cabanas, patio covers), water features (fountains, dry stream beds, waterfalls, swimming pools), fireplaces, outdoor rooms, sitting areas and fencing.
Softscapes:
Softscapes are the live elements of a landscape. These include shrubs, flowers, lawns, plants and trees. Softscapes can also include other organic elements such as soil and compost.
Landscape Design lays out a plan for how the landscape project will be built. It shows location of the various elements and how each is to be arranged. Landscape designers use form, texture, line, scale, balance and color in order to create a functional. pleasing outdoor space.
Landscape Construction is the actual building and landscaping installation of the project. Landscaping projects can be a single item like a fire pit or sitting area to a complete yard makeover. Construction includes the building of pathways, flower beds, walls, restructuring the topography, and all structural design from outdoor kitchens to garden ponds, patios, swimming pools, decks and more.
Related articles across the web
- Published in Hardscapes, Landscape Design, Landscaping, Softscapes
- 1
- 2