There’s nothing like spring and summer in the Lowcountry and the only thing that can make spending time outside more ideal is turning your backyard into a personal paradise!  Luckily for homeowners, the possibilities are endless when it comes to finding the perfect amenities for your family to have the outdoor oasis of your dreams.  Here are a couple of ways to update your yard with features that will suit the whole family and are sure to stay in trend:

 

A Beautiful Pergola

The nice thing about pergolas is that they fit in just about any backyard!  And while they look impressive, they’re actually quite simple to construct and maintain.  If you want something custom, don’t hesitate to go with your favorite contractor.  However, they also make kits that provide all of the pre-cut wood that just needs to be put together!

An Outdoor Kitchen

Why settle for a grill when you can install a state-of-the-art outdoor kitchen?  Not only do they look impressive but you’ll be surprised at how often you will use it!  If you’re looking to spend more time in your backyard, investing in an outdoor kitchen is ideal.  You’ll have everything you need for the perfect outdoor summer dinner.  If you’re really looking to add to the appeal, don’t forget to attach an outdoor bar!

Plenty of Strung Lights

Nothing sets the perfect ambiance like strung Eddison lights in the yard.  They are truly perfect for every situation and are both easy and inexpensive to install!

Backyard Games

No backyard entertainment destination isn’t complete without yard games and the possibilities are endless.  If you don’t have a large enough yard for games to be out 24/7, there are plenty of wonderful games that can be stored away when not in use.  On the other hand, if you’re looking for more of a permanent fixture, consider an idea such as getting a putting green installed. 

A Pizza Oven

Unique AND functional!  If your family finds themselves ordering or making pizza fairly often, take the extra step and install an outdoor pizza oven!  It makes for the perfect summer meal for both your family and while entertaining guests. 

Beautiful Landscaping that’s Easy to Maintain

Landscaping is beautiful and always the perfect touch for any backyard.  However, if you’re looking to enjoy your yard more and work in it less, make sure you choose landscaping that tends to be more low maintenance.  Sticking with perennials that are native to the Lowcountry is a perfect place to start. 

Give it a Theme

Giving the backyard space a theme doesn’t mean you have to go all out.  A theme can also be subtle while making the yard feel cohesive.  Start simple by sticking with a specific color palette or pattern.  Keeping all of the furniture cohesive by sticking to similar materials and tones will also give off a simple and subtle theme. 

A Permanent Fire Pit

Another feature that can be in a backyard of just about any shape or size!  While removable firepits always work well, adding a more permanent fixture will give your backyard a sense of calm and sophistication that the temporary ones just can’t.  Add a couple of benches and Adirondack chairs for the perfect relaxing, entertaining spot after a long day.  

Give Hardscaping a Try

Nothing screams professionally done like putting some hardscaping in the backyard.  Consider options such as a retaining wall with stacked stones (perfect along with an outdoor kitchen!), paver patios, or pathways along with various parts of the yard. 

A Formal Outdoor Dining Area

After a long day, your family will need somewhere to relax outside and enjoy dinner together.  While a standard patio table will always suffice, to really add permanence and charm, go all out with a formal dining area.  While this might seem a little intimidating, if you already have a pergola and strung lights, you’re halfway there!  You just have to find the perfect furniture to suit your family and decorate in a way that suits your style and allows you to relax and enjoy the perfect summer nights.

However, you choose to design and style your yard, enjoy the beautiful spring and summer in the Lowcountry!  Getting outside and making lasting memories is what living here is all about. 

 

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