Life, Styled
Warmer weather is just around the corner, meaning we can finally spend more time outside doing what we love, like grilling, swimming, and sitting around fire pits. One thing that all of these have in common is that they can be done in your own backyard. Outdoor spaces are trending this year and for good reason, since they provide a change of scenery for homeowners without having to drive somewhere, plus they add more usable space to your home. Enjoy fresh air, cool summer nights, and time with family all within the safety of your own home. Here are a few reasons and benefits to adding or upgrading your outdoor space.
Wellness
Health is everyone’s number one priority, and none more than your family. According to Forbes, “even just 20 minutes per day spent in nature can lower stress hormone levels, boost self-esteem and improve mood.” Having access to your own outdoor space allows you a safe place to relax at the end of the day and catch your breath. Some of the health benefits of an outdoor living space include:
- Relaxes the eyes: We are a society that spends multiple hours a day staring at screens like computers and phones, which can strain the eyes. Taking the time to sit outside allows your eyes to rest and simply soak in the calm beauty of nature. There is a bonus benefit for the eyes when you spend time outside. The color green absorbs harmful UV rays of strong light and reduces glare, meaning that the beautiful scenery can reduce eye fatigue.
- Reduces stress: This is a pretty common feeling among most people as they rush to meet deadlines, attend meetings, and draft new proposals. Studies show that stepping outside eases the stress and tension of the body as you relax in the open space and the fresh breeze of nature. Depression can lift as you bathe in the warm sunshine, too.
- Reboots the body: Our immune system is critical to our health, so it’s important to take care of it, and spending some time outside can help. Enjoying the beauty and refreshment of nature can lower blood pressure and give you a boost to help fight off colds.
Having an outdoor space means you have quick access to nature’s wellness and can take advantage of it whenever you need it. Read more benefits here.
Increase Home Value
We all know that square footage is an important part of the home, and having an outdoor living space adds more usable space, which isn’t just good for your family but for you if you ever choose to sell. Consider these when designing your outdoor space.
- Kitchen: There are multiple benefits to having an outdoor kitchen, especially in summer when the heat is on. Having your cooking area outside means less heat in the house, saving money on your utility bill, and less smoke. Plus, it allows you to enjoy the fresh air and host gatherings where everyone can spread out comfortably.
- Fire pit: Many people enjoy a quiet evening with family, making s’mores or roasting hot dogs around the fire pit. It is also the perfect place to relax in the evening with friends and make memories.
- Pergola: This is a great option since it not only creates the perfect location to eat outside but also provides shade, so you can enjoy nature while still being protected.
Including practical areas in your outdoor living space sets your home apart from the rest and can give you a seller’s edge when you list your home. Check out this beautiful home in Charlotte that added an outdoor living space.
Entertainment
This is what many people think of when an outdoor living space is mentioned, and usually the main purpose of adding it to the home. Designing a place where the family can safely and conveniently hang out means unlimited fun and relaxation. Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity.
- Seating area: Including a spot where people can gather around and sit provides the perfect environment for conversation and fun times. Add a TV and turn it into the perfect place to watch those sports events with friends or host a watch party.
- Pool zone: Warm weather equals pool parties, and having an area where people can take a breather from the water makes for a nice combination. It also means that those who would prefer to just watch have a place to relax in their own way, but feel included.
- Grilling station: Backyards and grilling go hand in hand, as if they were made for each other. Adding this to your outdoor space ensures a future of delicious food served for family dinner or impromptu get-togethers with friends.
When you can have a great time but without having to pack up everyone, drive somewhere, and stand in line, that equals a win. Outdoor living spaces allow you to do just that within the safety of your own home.
Walker Woodworking Many elements make up a beautiful kitchen, but without a doubt, the countertops and backsplash are the focal points. These materials have become more than just practical tools in the kitchen. They are now works of art and an opportunity for homeowners to add a touch of themselves to the design. Of course, there must be a balance between the two, where they work together to create a cohesive design. Multiple ways exist to create both beautiful and functional looks in the kitchen. Here we answer some common questions surrounding the topic.
Greenbrook DesignFresh air, open outdoor spaces, and cooking on the grill are just a few of the benefits associated with having an outdoor space, which is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Our homes are our refuge, but an outdoor space is the perfect solution to curing cabin fever without having to pack up and drive somewhere. With spring just around the corner, we thought it would be a good time to highlight the reasons why an outdoor space matters, what elements should be included, and how to bring it all together to create the perfect outdoor space for everyone to enjoy.
Everyone enjoys returning to a well-organized, spacious kitchen after a long day. It’s even better if your kitchen includes a nicely organized pantry!
Walker Woodworking Have you ever found yourself in utter disarray, scavenging through the depths of your kitchen cabinets, relentlessly searching for that specific spice or measuring cup that you so desperately need, only to realize that you have no idea where it could be? If so, you’re not alone. An unorganized kitchen can be a source of immense frustration and consume a great deal of your time. However, with some simple yet practical tips, you can transform your cluttered and dysfunctional kitchen into a functional and efficient space. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best tips for organizing your kitchen cabinets so that you can enjoy the benefits of a tidy and well-organized kitchen.
While each home is unique, there are several common elements that designers use to craft the core of the story, such as color, texture, and pattern. Combining these things in various ways allows the client’s story of home to be told exactly the way that represents them best. Another element that is popular and fun to use is layers. Utilizing layers in your interior design is a great way to add depth to the room. It is where you mix and match items to create a blended design that results in a stunning final space for you and your family to enjoy. It involves selecting contrasting colors to create visual interest, allowing the room to make a statement to everyone entering. It utilizes a myriad of items, such as wallpaper, artwork, accent pieces, and rugs, to bring charm and character to each section of your home. There are multiple ways to incorporate layers throughout your home. Let’s talk about them.
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