Want
to recharge your outdoor living space?
Here are some ideas from
the pros.
by Pam McElroy
David Pechmann, landscape architect, Landscape II
In order for a home to have the perfect outdoor setting everything should flow. “Your
home should flow from indoors to outdoors as though they are one area,” says
David Pechmann, a landscape architect at Landscape II in State College.
“Any
home is easily transformable.”
There are many ways to create the perfect indoor/outdoor flow. In the backyard,
the most popular place for relaxing and entertaining, Pechmann focuses on lighting.
Although many people position outdoor lighting at high-levels, Pechmann recommends
low-level lighting such as lanterns or low-light stands because
they draw the entire area together, creating a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
High-level lighting, on the other hand, creates awkward lighting that often leaves
the area unevenly lit, eliminating the flow from indoors to outdoors.
Pechmann also suggests using water as décor. Whether it is an extravagant
waterfall
or a small pond or fountain, these cooling additions are some of today’s
most popular items in outdoor decorating. According to Pechmann, the sound and
essence of running water will perfect any outdoor occasion, whether casual or
formal.
Christine Wertz, co-owner, Wertz Landscaping Inc.
Why is it that after spending a beautiful and relaxing day outside, you’re
often
left with a sunburn and mosquito bites?
But unless you want to walk around smelling like bug spray and sunscreen some
of those affects are probably unavoidable. However, Christine Wertz suggests that
people who generally
prefer to be outdoors in the nice weather should think about
installing a comfortable outdoor room or patio.
While many property owners choose to add plants in their yards, nowadays more
and more people are choosing to add outdoor rooms instead. The rooms do not take
away from the natural landscape’s beauty because of the options available
for stylish walkways, arbors and soothing waters and spas.
Although Wertz is enthusiastic about this new outdoor trend, she warns that depending
on the consumer’s requests, it can be costly. “Definitely
have a professional plan,” says Wertz. “If you can only afford to
complete
certain elements at a time, make sure you research the company and have a master
plan. Also make sure you choose a plan that is the most functional and usable
for your particular taste and architecture.”
Bill Klaban, owner, Tubbies Spa and Patio
“Quality has everything to do with it,” says Bill Klaban. If you
are in the market for some new outdoor furniture, make sure it is durable and
all weather. As outdoor entertaining becomes more popular, companies are producing
cheaper and less sturdy products. “A piece of replacement glass for something
can cost the same as the entire piece [of furniture],” warns Klaban.
Buying quality furniture may be a little costly in the beginning, but it saves
money and hassle in the long run.
The products most in demand this season, according to Klaban, are outdoor kitchens,
something he definitely recommends. Nothing has ever been more convenient. With
this evolution in design, never again do we have to grill burgers outside and
prepare a salad inside. Every task of outdoor entertaining can be easily completed
in one place. |
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