Photos by Epic Interlock , www . epicinterlock . com
LANDSCAPE LIGHTING can have many functions including adding a decorative element , highlighting outdoor features and providing safety and security . Specialty lighting systems with timers , low-voltage LED lighting and smart lighting options can bring your backyard to a new level .
PRIVACY is important when planning how you will use your backyard . There are a number of options available for increased privacy including wooden trellises , tall plants or shrubs or prefabricated screens . “ There are many prefabricated screens you can buy for privacy or as a design element ,” says Iryna Mediana of Art-Metal Workshop , “ However , working with a custom metal manufacturer will allow you to create a piece that is designed for your needs in terms of size and style for a truly one-of-akind look .”
SOUND is not necessarily something we think of when designing a space but it can be an important part of creating that oasis feel in a backyard . Blanche suggests adding a water feature for that babbling brook sound or installing audio speakers that play gentle white noise in the background to help mask some of the noise that filters in from the streets and houses beyond .
SHADE / PROTECTION from the weather should be considered to ensure you can enjoy your backyard oasis regardless of the elements . Blanche suggests a canopy or gazebo that will protect you from the weather and allow you to enjoy our backyard season for an extra month or two as well . This is also a great place to keep electronic items such as a TV and charging station .
PLANTERS and edgers are an important part of your landscaping plan as well . Edgers help contain the earth inside your flower beds and pathways while planters add a decorative touch anywhere it is needed ! Planters come in a wide variety of materials but custom steel planters are growing in popularity ! “ Steel planters are much more elegant and thinner than other materials so they save a ton of space .” say Mediana . “ The planters are all customizable in terms of finish , thickness , height , width , bottom options , drainage and more . This allows you to plan out every detail to perfectly suit your space .”
STRUCTURES can take unused space in your backyard and turn it into functional living space for a wide variety of uses . Cher Rowe of PacRim Log Structures , a leading retailer of prefabricated wood structure kits , has seen a vast variety of structures being created . “ Our DIY kits are used for both recreational and residential applications .” says Rowe . “ This includes sheds , cabins , guest accommodations , a backyard business or studio space , office space , gazebos , saunas , wood fired hot tubs , chalets and much more . Ranging from 36 sq . ft . to 1,600 sq . ft ., each model features high-quality Northern Spruce , ornate details , bevels and trims that you won ’ t find in standard stick-built structures . Each kit comes standard with precision cut tongue and groove boards , glulam doors and windows , all hardware required to construct and your choice of metal or shingled roofing package . You can also customize your kit to include roof and floor insulation , base materials , wood protection oil , site preparation services and even full assembly services !” Adding structures to your hardscaping plan can offer additional living space , improved storage and more !
Photo by Art-Metal Workshop , www . art-metal . ca
PacRim Log Structures , www . pacrimls . ca
PacRim Log Structures , www . pacrimls . ca