The right combination of hardscape elements can transform a ho-hum backyard space into a stunning and relaxing at-home retreat. Explore five important elements of a backyard makeover that can be the difference between a good outdoor space and a great outdoor space.
Using a variety of manufactured stone elements creates visual interest. Above: Techo-Bloc Mika Paver in Onyx Black and Travertina Raw Patio Slab in Riviera.
1. Manufactured Stone Elements
Natural stone can provide a beautiful natural look, but since it is often porous, it is subject to cracking and breakage as water seeps into the stone and the ice of winter freezes the water causing expansion and breakage. In recent years a new generation of manufactured stone has become the choice of most top outdoor designers.
Elegance and durability – along with a wide range of color and texture choices – have led to this material’s popularity. Manufactured stone can be used to create an almost infinite variety of hardscape features – including everything from patios and pathways to retaining walls, stairways, and even outdoor kitchen and entertainment areas.
Mixing sizes, colors, and textures of stone elements is an excellent way to create a dynamic and visually interesting space. The Heinen outdoor design team works only with the most reputable stone manufacturers, like Techo-Bloc and Unilock. Both of these suppliers enable Heinen to provide customers with a wide variety of design options along with the satisfaction of knowing their outdoor investment will look and perform great for years to come.
2. Multi-Level Patios
Elevation changes between multiple patio spaces add improved dimensionality to backyard design and improve usability and functionality. Not only does the finished space project a professionally designed look, but it’s also a very practical solution that can transform steeply-sloped, formally unusable backyard areas into tiered conversation areas connected by walkways, paths, and stairways.
Terracing patio spaces can create more usable and accessible space in a sloped backyard.
Terraced patio spaces can be designed as distinct destination areas that serve specific purposes such as dining, lounging, and conversation. This more intentional use of the outdoor space imparts a sense of thoughtfulness into the design – resulting in an air of luxury throughout. When dedicated patio levels are strategically placed, form meets function as guests progress from a cocktail area to an outdoor meal space setting, to a late evening conversation pit. Pathways and steps connect the areas, subtly controlling flow through the space and enhancing the overall guest experience – making the entire area feel more expansive yet more intimate at the same time.
3. Add A Cozy Fire Feature
Fire features serve as a luxurious focal point for an outdoor space, adding warmth and ambiance. Evening gatherings now can extend well into the night and, as seasons turn colder, a warm, flickering fire invites relaxation and inspires conversation.
Create a natural and comfortable gathering space with a strategically placed fire feature constructed with textured manufactured stone.
A strategically placed fire feature serves as a natural gathering place. And fire features can be designed to match any style, thanks to the wide selection of materials available from Techo-Bloc and Unilock. An above-ground fire pit can project a natural, rustic look with the right combination of rough-textured and earth-tone manufactured stone. Or, a sleek and modern look can be had with smoother textured stone in blues and grays. That look can be complemented with a stainless steel, instant-on fire feature, fueled by an underground natural gas line from the home or a hidden propane tank that flickers to life with the flip of a switch.
4. Include An Outdoor Kitchen or Bar
Incorporating a kitchen, grill, or outdoor bar transforms any patio into the ultimate entertainment space. There’s no need to be stuck inside cooking while guests mingle outdoors – with an outdoor kitchen, hosts can cook or bartend without missing a moment of the fun.
A custom grill station designed by the Heinen team features a workspace on either side for increased functionality.
Outdoor kitchens are also an excellent way to extend a home’s usable living space and create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas – and they can be tailored to match the homeowner’s lifestyle. The range of available features includes grilling stations, pizza ovens, flat tops, drink refrigerators, and much more. When built with reliable, high-quality materials and purpose-built appliances, an outdoor kitchen quickly becomes a favorite spot for entertainment nearly year-round.
5. Turn Night into Day with Outdoor Lighting
Well-designed quality-made outdoor lighting can dramatically enhance the feel and functionality of most outdoor spaces. Professionally installed lighting can be used to accent key landscape features as well as improve safety through greater visibility of tripping hazards and by deterring trespassers.
The perfect lighting design creates an inviting and cozy atmosphere that leads to perfect evenings!
The right outdoor lighting can instantly create an inviting and cozy outdoor atmosphere. The Heinen lighting team’s knowledge and know-how when it comes to designing and installing outdoor lighting systems has been acquired over 30 years of creating outdoor lighting solutions. The Heinen team uses only the best lighting systems from trusted manufacturers like FX Luminaire. And their wide variety of pro-level lighting fixtures are not only designed to withstand extreme weather but they can also be controlled from a handy mobile app. Setting a lighting schedule or activating a lighting system can be accomplished quickly and easily thanks to WiFi connectivity.
Ready to take your outdoor living space from dull to dazzling? Heinen can help! Heinen’s team of outdoor living experts has over three decades of experience designing custom outdoor entertainment spaces for homeowners throughout the Kansas City metro area.
For a no-obligation consultation, call Debbie at (913) 432-5011 and start planning your outdoor transformation today!
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