Around here, we believe a good landscape isn’t just a pretty thing to look at–it creates space for what you need. In this post, we’re looking at a few of the ways you might use your backyard and what landscaping elements can help you achieve your goals for your own unique version of summer fun in Northern Michigan. Whether you want more space for family get-togethers, a secluded retreat, or a low-maintenance masterpiece, we’re breaking it down here.
For better family gatherings
We’re all about time with family. Whether it’s a birthday party, a barbecue, or any random Tuesday, it’s better spent outside with the family. If you want to turn your yard into your family’s favorite place to hang out, here are the elements we recommend:
- Patio space
- It’s kind of hard to have a family gathering if there’s no place to gather, and a patio solves that problem by giving you the space you need. How you use it is up to you!
- Fire pit
- There’s just something about a backyard bonfire that draws people in. Maybe it’s the marshmallows, or maybe it’s just the innate knowledge that memories are made here–whatever the reason, a fire pit is an excellent addition to any family function.
- Outdoor kitchen
- Hosting an outdoor party with the food inside is kind of a bummer, if we’re all being honest. The trips back and forth take up time you could be spending with your family. Creating a space where you can prepare and cook a meal outside ensures you’re still part of the action.
- BONUS: A pool
- Okay, what kid wouldn’t love a landscape with a pool? And, come to think of it, pools are a pretty big hit with adults, too! A pool instantly turns a backyard into everyone’s favorite place to be.
For more peace and quiet
While we love family time, we also love long, quiet evenings outside. If you’re looking for a private retreat to come home to–an evening escape from the hustle of the day–here are the features we recommend:
- Thoughtful plantings
- When the goal is relaxation, plants are extra important. Using plants as privacy screens or sound barriers is a great way to create your own little hideaway, and there’s a lot to be said for the power of flowers to promote a sense of calm.
- Water feature
- Water features create an outdoor experience that appeals to multiple senses. Both the sights and sounds of moving water can be incredibly soothing, helping you unwind after a long day.
- Lighting
- As day turns into evening, and evening turns to night, a landscape transforms. Proper lighting ensures you get the most out of your space, no matter the time.
- BONUS: A spa
- For the ultimate in rest and relaxation, a spa or hot tub is a must. Pair it with landscape lighting, and you’ve got the perfect place to let the cares of the day melt away.
For less maintenance
If you want an outdoor living space but don’t want to add a hundred garden chores to your to-do list, here’s what we recommend:
- Irrigation
- This summer has had its periods of extended hot, dry weather–and the plants have felt it! Proper irrigation helps plants weather the…well, weather, and smart irrigation systems take the guesswork out of watering.
- Thoughtful plantings
- Yep, plants are showing up again on the low-maintenance list! This is because some plants definitely require less maintenance than others, and good plantings–and planning–can reduce maintenance time in the future while still looking beautiful.
- Fertilization
- Properly fertilizing your plants–whether trees, shrubs, flowers, or lawn–helps them grow stronger and healthier. Strong, healthy plants are less susceptible to pests and diseases, which means you’re less likely to need to treat problems or, worse yet, replace plants.
- BONUS: The full Drost experience
- If you can’t resist a landscape with all the proverbial bells and whistles, but don’t have the time, experience, or desire (no judgement, you’ve got other things you want to do!) to make sure everything is at its best, we have a Landscape Services Team that performs routine maintenance visits, water feature repairs, lawn care, and more.
Create a landscape that fits your lifestyle
Whatever you’re looking to achieve with your outdoor space, there are plenty of options to fit your unique style and needs. The items we’ve covered in this post can, of course, be mixed-and-matched to create a space you can’t wait to come home to. All it takes is a little creativity to find what works for you!
If you’re looking for more landscaping inspiration, check out our project gallery or our latest tiny landscape tour, which features a fun water feature, multiple fire pits, and an enormous pool.
