Content written in collaboration with thewriteink.ca
Our evenings on the town are making a major shift this summer as homeowners flock to their own backyards and patios for sanctuary, entertainment and play. Creating that cozy retreat and personal oasis doesn’t have to be a dream, and may even leave you and your guests thinking ‘about last night’…
While movie theatres and playhouses are quite likely to make a comeback, the appeal to create a home entertainment space to share with family and friends has never been greater. And now with the warm weather upon us, backyard remodelling is on the rise, with many including entertainment areas with large screens, comfortable seating, and perhaps a fire pit, hot-tub or water feature.
Whether it’s a favourite Netflix show, a sporting event or simply an evening to chill at home, the right space and surrounding environment can make all the difference and enrich the experience. For many, the backyard space has become a place to ‘hang’ and enjoy each other’s company – friends gathering to play their weekly game of Mahjong, or a quiet evening with a partner, a glass of wine and a favourite playlist emanating from the Google home speaker.
Ahhh, summer nights!
This past year has definitely made us take a closer look at our own home environment – particularly those spaces in which we spend most of our time. Having had ample time to notice the little things, you may want to consider some of these simple and inexpensive DIY projects to spice up your outdoor space:
1. Paint that old shed. A dark, bold coat of paint can make quite an impact in a backyard space. In fact, this creative upgrade makes for a great backdrop to garden plants and colourful flowers – not to mention a brand new look! Benjamin Moore’s “Wrought Iron” (Colour 2124-10) paint adds depth and intensity to our backyard shed shown in this feature.
2. Furnish purposefully. There is nothing more enchanting than creating an external living space that is both welcoming and comfortable. Create defining vignettes by thinking carefully about conversation areas and how investing in outdoor furniture and its placement can play a huge role in ensuring a successful social event. We found the selection and service at ARD Outdoor was excellent when choosing our furniture. Adding a colourful, weatherproof rug to the main gathering spot, combined with indoor accessories such as decorative lamps and throw cushions, will bring that that “homey” feeling of inside, outside. Ultimately, this space acts as an extension of your living room.
3. Light up the night. Hanging pretty lights throughout the backyard adds a halo of warmth and peaceful ambience. Outdoor string lights come in a variation of bulb colours and sizes and are easy to hang along fences, on tree branches, or simply to create a focal point for celebratory events such as a garden wedding ceremony. This decorative enhancement is an instant mood changer and has a lasting effect that carries on into the night. String Lights from NOMA or CANVAS, available at Canadian Tire, are the magnificent lighting products we use and enjoy, personally.
4. Create privacy with plants. Strategically placing some tall planters in and around your backyard and seating space not only adds beauty and splendour to the lounging area, but with clever placement, doubles as a privacy screen and sound insulator for you and your guests to feel tranquil and relaxed.
A little ingenuity and a carefully thought out plan can make a big difference when spending time under the moonlit stars!