subject: How To Create A Great Outdoor Environment [print this page] As families grow, they may find their indoor space is no longer adequate. They can upgrade by moving to a larger home, but that is pricey, it may require children to change schools and it is not always the best option. Instead of picking up your life and moving it to another location, consider just expanding your lifestyle into the outdoors. Creating a great exterior space for your home gives you additional living space, at least for a portion of the year. If you have school aged children, that extra room may be just the thing you need for long summer days when they are not in school. If designed properly, outdoor spaces can often be used year-round or at least three quarters of the year. A great way to expand living space is with patio enclosures. You can speak with roofers about putting on a sturdy roof that will protect your family from the elements and give you a temperature controlled room that is comfortable and fun.
Another way to add to your outdoor space is to put in a pool. This is a sure-fire way to draw kids out to the space. They may grumble and complain if you are just telling them to go play outdoors, but if there is a pool in the outdoors, you probably will not even need to suggest they go enjoy the outside. A pool also gives adults a great place to relax and unwind after a long day at work. While you may not be able to use a pool year-round, it will give you a seasonal change to look forward to when the weather begins to warm up.
You can boost the style of your exterior space by adding a water feature besides a pool. While the water feature may not be something a child can play in, it can still create an aesthetically pleasing space that is relaxing and comfortable. Imagine sitting next to an outdoor water fountain, enjoying the sounds of the trickling water while you read a good book or just relax under the spring sunshine.
Another way to improve the aesthetics and usage of your outdoor space is to add a fire feature. This can lengthen the time your outdoor space is comfortable because the fire feature will offer heating. You can purchase a chiminea, fire pit or an oil lamp. All will illuminate the area, add character to the space and give off heat that makes even the most frigid of autumn evening toasty and comfortable.
Finally, you can add landscaping to your exterior space. Color can go a long way in making an area comfortable and if you want to, you can even improve the privacy of your space with landscaping. If you add stepping stones, you will create a more easily navigated area, making the space safer for everyone who spends time outdoors. By making each of these upgrades, you will find yourself with a comfortable outdoor living space in no time at all.
