Few pleasures are as great as completing a big home project with your family. The addition of a new and improved space keeps everyone excited during the process. At the same time, the finished result allows all who partook in its construction to reminisce about the moments they experienced together. But before jumping into a new backyard space, consider these things when making a nature-friendly patio.
Create a Detailed Blueprint
As fun as it is to throw everyone’s ideas into the design of your patio, it’s important to get as accurate as possible when creating the blueprint. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t change things once you set it up. Having a guide to follow offers several organizational benefits and helps keep your progress manageable. This is also a good opportunity to ask your family what they want in the space. That way, they feel included from the start.
Terrace Your Slopes
If your patio rests on top of a slope, it’s a good idea to terrace the paths you will walk up and down regularly. This helps with mowing and prevents water runoff from building up at the bottom, potentially eroding the integrity of any structures on the lower elevations.
Once you’ve created the paths, the spaces in-between are perfect for gardens that you can fill with local flora. This aids the local bees in pollinating and ensures that at least one of the flowers is their favorite. Just be sure to familiarize yourself with the different kinds of bees. It’s usually surprising to find out that they’re often quite harmless.
Use Trees for Shade
A simple and beautiful technique for keeping you and your family cool during the hotter times of the year is creating natural shade against the sunlight. Tall trees, or trees that will grow tall, are perfect for increasing the plant life of your backyard while using it as a practical and aesthetic benefit for daily living. Pine trees are typically the selected option for this type of function while also providing some privacy.
A project like a new patio is a big addition to undertake. Making it into an experience to share with the family is great for cementing your memories in the foundation of your home-building history. By considering these things when making a nature-friendly patio, you are sure to create a fun and enjoyable experience, but don’t be surprised if you still end up doing most of the work. After all, if you want it done right, it’s best to do it yourself.
