Ready to get the most out of your backyard? If you’re planning a backyard renovation or dreaming of a new outdoor living space to enjoy, MAG Construction would love to help you navigate a lot of the big decisions you’ll have to make along the way.

Remember to set a realistic budget and prioritize your spending based on your needs and preferences. Allocate more funds to areas that are most important to you and look for cost-effective alternatives where possible. Need some design ideas? Look for inspiration in magazines, websites, and social media platforms like Pinterest and Houzz. Save images of outdoor spaces you love to help communicate your vision to designers or contractors.

TIPS FOR PLANNING YOUR NEW BACKYARD

1) Define Your Goals

Determine how you want to use the space in your backyard. Do you plan to use it for relaxing, entertaining, gardening, or a combination? Understanding your priorities will guide your design decisions.

2) Consider Your Environment

Take note of the climate in your area, sunlight exposure, and any natural features like trees or slopes. This will influence the layout and materials you choose.

For example, this client of ours in Knoxville, TN had a very wooded, sloped fall-away back yard that wasn’t working for their family with small children. They really wanted a flatter yard area that their family could enjoy together for years to come. Many other contractors told them it couldn’t be done. We came up with a plan to utilize retaining walls to give them a backyard they now love.

3) Create Zones

Divide the space into different areas for dining, lounging, cooking, etc. This creates visual interest and functionality. Before making any permanent changes, test out your layout using temporary furniture or markers. This will help you visualize the space and make any necessary adjustments before committing.

This client wanted to create an outdoor space perfect for entertaining. We helped him create a zone for outdoor dining, an outdoor TV viewing area, a grilling zone, a cornhole and putt-putt zone, plus a nice grass area for his pet to enjoy.

4) Choose the Right Materials

Select materials that can withstand your climate and require minimal maintenance. Consider factors like durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal.

5) Think About Comfort: Invest in comfortable furniture and consider adding features like outdoor rugs, pillows, and shade structures to enhance comfort and usability.

6) Add Greenery: Incorporate plants, flowers, and trees to soften the space and create a connection with nature. Choose plants that thrive in your climate and require minimal care if you’re not an avid gardener.

7) Lighting: Incorporate adequate lighting for both ambiance and safety. Consider a mix of overhead lights, pathway lighting, and accent lighting to create the right mood.

8) Privacy: If your outdoor space is overlooked by neighbors or passersby, consider adding privacy features such as fences, hedges, pergolas, or trellises.

9) Water Features: If feasible, consider adding a water feature like a fountain, pond, or waterfall. Not only do they provide soothing sounds, but they also attract birds and create a serene atmosphere.

10) Flexibility: Design your outdoor space to be adaptable to different activities and seasons. Choose furniture that can be easily rearranged and consider portable features like fire pits or outdoor heaters for cooler weather.

Consider the long-term maintenance requirements of your outdoor space and choose materials and features that will stand the test of time. If you need advice from an experienced contractor, contact MAG Construction.

By following these tips and putting careful thought into your outdoor living space, you can create a beautiful and functional oasis that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Ready to get the ball rolling on your backyard renovation in Knoxville, Tennessee?

> Contact us on our online Contact Form or call us at 865-333-0947.