Creating an Outdoor Sanctuary

Nothing enhances a warm and beautiful spring day like a few hours spent luxuriating with a book and a beverage in your own peaceful outdoor oasis beneath the wide blue sky. These days, with the worries of modern life intruding at every turn, having a tranquil outdoor sanctuary at home has become more important than ever. It’s a place where you can escape the stresses of daily life, unwind, and connect with nature, and thanks to the tailored design and customization options of Aspen Homes, it’s easier than ever to achieve. Here are some tips to help you create your own outdoor haven.

Define Your Space

Begin by setting the physical parameters for your sanctuary. Whether it’s a small corner of your backyard or a spacious patio, consider how you want to use the space and what elements are important to you. Aspen Homes offers a variety of outdoor features, such as patios, decks, and outdoor kitchens, so you can begin thinking about how you want to structure your outdoor space even before building plans are finalized.

Create an Impression of Seclusion

Use fences, walls, or landscaping to create a sense of privacy. Whether constructed or cultivated, barriers help block out noise and visual distractions, making your sanctuary feel more peaceful and secluded. Backyards usually offer more separation and solitude than front yards, and incorporating sound-blocking materials in fences, screens, and structures enhances the quiet even further.

Choose Comfortable Seating

Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that encourages relaxation. Consider a cozy hammock, a plush outdoor sofa, or a set of cushioned chairs where you can sit back and unwind. Try before you buy, and choose pieces that invite lounging or even napping. Be sure to include enough seating for any friends and family you invite to share your hideaway.

Add Natural Elements

Incorporate natural elements like plants, flowers, and water features into your sanctuary. Plants not only add beauty and color but can also improve air quality and foster a sense of calm. A small fountain or pond can add the soothing sound of running water; the white noise it generates also helps mask the sound of traffic and other irritations. When choosing plants, consider your growing zone and your willingness to maintain and care for them. Perhaps you and your green thumb thrill to the thought of a veritable bower bursting with blooms. On the other hand, it’s possible that, for you, less is more. It’s up to you!

Enhance the Mood With Lighting 

Just as it sets the mood inside your home, lighting also enhances the ambiance of your outdoor sanctuary. Consider using string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft, diffused lighting can help you relax and enjoy your space well into the evening. If your space includes walkways or steps, properly placed border lighting will make moving around at night safer.

Include Personal Touches

Bring in personal touches that reflect your unique personality. Include a piece of artwork, a collection of rocks or shells, or a DIY project that draws the eye and creates a focal point for your sanctuary. This is the place for that wild sculpture you picked up on vacation or the stone birdbath your grandmother handed down to you. Your sanctum should reflect your individuality and be filled with details that engender a feeling of well-being and contentment.

Create Different Zones

If you have the space, consider creating different zones within your sanctuary. For example, you could have a dining area, a lounging area, and a meditation corner, allowing you to use the space for different activities and moods. If you plan on entertaining guests in your retreat, a well-placed seating group will invite long, soulful conversations and warm confidences shared between friends.

Use Color and Texture

Incorporate color and texture into your outdoor space to create a visually appealing environment. Bring in visual interest through colorful cushions, rugs, or throw blankets that add warmth and comfort. Experiment with stones, sand, and wood to play up the rustic beauty of the outdoors.

Keep It Low Maintenance

Finally, consider the maintenance requirements of your outdoor sanctuary. What is the weather like in your area? Will you pack your cushions and textiles away between uses or leave them to face the elements? Plants, furnishings, and construction materials should be easy to clean, store, and care for, so you can spend more time kicking back and absorbing the peace of your retreat and less time maintaining it.

Creating an outdoor sanctuary is an effective way to enhance your home and improve your mental and physical health. By following these guidelines, you can create a peaceful retreat where you can unwind, breathe, and connect with nature right in your own backyard. Contact Aspen Homes to start designing your custom home today!