Although you may not live in a tropical paradise or on a large estate, making your backyard feel inviting and fun isn’t as hard as it may seem. It also provides a great area for your kids or guests to enjoy, and can increase the value of your home! Below are 5 ways to create a better outdoor living space!

 

1) Make some Shade

Shade plays a key role influencing how much time your family, or guests will actually spend outside. Without shady spots you’re likely to get overheated quickly and end up inside before too long. If you don’t have nearby trees you can get creative and make your own shade with a few different products. One classic idea is the picnic table with an umbrella in the center. Look for one that tilts so you can continue blocking the sun as it moves through the sky! Another convenient option is to setup a tarp, or canopy to block those rays.  Check out ENO’s ProFly and SuperFly utility tarps. These, and other temporary options, will require some setup time but they can be great, quick, portable solutions for creating shade in your yard or patio.

 

2) Bring the Indoors Outside

While some people love to be in nature and “rough it”, others like more of the comforts of home when spending time outside. One great way accomodate this is to get an outdoor rug if you have a cement or wood patio. I suggest one that can be stowed away when you’re done. This way when you are done to keep dry and clean for years of use. Lay out an lightweight Islander in the yard to relax and avoid the itch of grass and moisture of the ground. This option creates a space for you to sit, lay or play with your kids without worrying about scrapes or dirt!

 

3) Lawn Games

There are a few staple games that you can buy that will make your outdoor space fun and enjoyable for all ages. My personal favorite are:

1. Spikeball
2. Corn hole
3. Ladder Ball

 

4) Light up the night

String lights can create an atmosphere of relaxation and peacefulness while helping define the space as a whole. Be sure the lights you buy are made for the outdoors and can hold up to the changing weather. Try Twilights for a fun colorful option, and avoid the need for drop cords.

 

5) Hang Out

Whether it’s some rest you need, or a group hang out, if you’re looking for a place to relax in your backyard, a hammock is the way to go! In some cases, your back yard may not be suited with two trees next to each other to hang a hammock. You can get creative and use a hammock hanging kit to clip onto a sturdy wall or post.

An outdoor space at home can make your life more enjoyable and additionally your home more valuable. Have friends over, enjoy family time and start living in the outdoors more!

 

Author Bio:

ABOUT JON: Originally from the great state of Pennsylvania I now currently reside in Lakeland, FL working for Southeastern University. I have a love for the outdoors including camping, hiking and fishing. Some of my other passions include, staying up to date on the latest technology, traveling, biking with my family, photography, graphic design and video work. I love helping individuals and organization tell a compelling story and see it from start to finish. My family has a passion for serving people and trying to show hope in areas that need it most! I am married to my best friend Elaine and have one son.

Web: jondemeo.com • Twitter: @jon_demeo • Instagram: JonDeMeo