Intro photo by Rosehill Gardens
From relaxing by the pool to outdoor movie nights, these backyard green spaces give us a respite for personal solitude and good times with friends. In celebration of all the simple things, we encourage you to take a step out the back door and create that special place as we celebrate National Backyard Day and the first day of Spring.
March 19 and 20 are early markers of our outdoor living season, nudging us into warmer temperatures where colorful fragrant blooms and the sweet songs from chirping friends fill the air. Now is the perfect time to start planning our dream space and gather ideas for sprucing up.
If you’re entering spring with a backyard that might need a little love or a complete revamp, read on as we’re here to save the day.
Abundant Foliage
Lush greenery and colorful petals are a game changer to your getaway space. Do it easy with pots and planters or go all out and create that flower bed you’ve been dreaming of.
“To beautify your backyard, start by thinking of it as an extension of your home that blends both function and style. Layer plants of varying heights, textures, and colors to create depth and visual interest. Incorporate seasonal blooms for color and consider adding foliage plants like coleus or heuchera for long-lasting vibrancy,” shared Jeff Menefee of Rosehill Gardens.
Project by Rosehill Gardens
Accentuate the Space
Whether large or small, envision your outdoor space as a room that fills your soul with tranquility and joy, by enhancing the area with complementing accessories.
“A water feature, such as a small fountain or birdbath, can provide soothing sounds and attract wildlife,” said Menefee. “Create a focal point with a decorative sculpture or a beautiful tree, and guide visitors with a charming garden path lit with solar lights. For smaller spaces, container gardening offers a flexible way to add color and texture, while an edible garden of herbs or vegetables adds both beauty and practicality.”
Cozy Conversation
Whether enjoying some solitude or entertaining friends and family, incorporate welcoming places to relax and chat. Easy armchairs, gliding loveseats, and hammock chairs, accented with throw pillows and outdoor rugs incorporate a sense of ease while providing an opportunity for pops of colors.
“Don’t forget to include comfortable seating where you can relax and enjoy your outdoor space,” Menefee noted. “Combining these elements will transform your backyard into a vibrant, peaceful retreat.”
Project by Banks Pool & Spa Design
Warmth and Ambiance
Just like a moth to the light, we are drawn to the flickering flames of fire. Adding a fire feature to your space with its pops and crackles radiates a cozy atmosphere. Small tabletop fire pots can be scattered around on side tables, encompassing the area in soft lighting. Gathering around a firepit roasting marshmallows allows the conversation to flow. For those chillier evenings, fireplaces with their radiating warmth provide the perfect setting for socializing. Soft blankets thrown on the back of chairs add to the coziness.
Splish Splash
For many of us, the perfect setting in our backyard involves water. There’s nothing like jumping into a pool to cool off from our Midwest temps or dipping our toes on those warm spring evenings. Whether your pool design is a straight-line preference or freeform, the addition of water fountains or a slide are options to consider.
Ready to take the plunge? Off-season is the best time to get your backyard plans in the works. We chatted with Hoyt Banks of Banks Pool and Spa who creates backyard havens. “The impact of pools extends beyond aesthetics,” shared Banks. “Many clients opt for ‘staycations’, creating backyards with elements superior to vacation rentals. Design element incorporation of water and fire features create dramatic views.”
Project by Banks Pool & Spa Design
Delicious and Fulfilling
What is a backyard get-together without a hot, juicy burger fresh off the grill? Whether it is a charcoal or gas grill on the deck or a full kitchen, cooking outdoors just makes meals taste oh-so-good. Banks summarized it perfectly when he said “Incorporating an outdoor kitchen completes the livability of the space. An accompanying pavilion perfectly complements the home and outdoor design, providing a perfect summertime retreat.”
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, Kansas City can expect normal to warm temperatures in the spring of 2025. Mid-March calls for sunny and mild conditions.
How are you planning on taking advantage of your backyard this season? #NationalBackyardDay
