- Add a second-story deck to create an outdoor living area, with materials and lighting to match your preferences.
- Incorporate green features, like trees or shrubs, for air quality and temperature control or a living wall for modern appeal.
- Consider a green roof system if vertical space is limited to help reduce energy costs and filter pollutants.
- Invest in smart storage solutions, such as a small shed for additional seating or storage items, hideaway seating to save space, or an outdoor storage wall to keep everything organized.
If you’re one of the many homeowners with a limited amount of outside space, you might feel like you’re at a disadvantage when it comes to creating a beautiful and functional outdoor area. However, with some smart upgrades to your home’s exterior, you can make the most of your available space and create a beautiful space that you’ll love spending time in. Here are some tips.
Add a Second-story Deck
First and foremost, consider adding a second-story deck. Even a small deck can transform your outdoor area into a welcoming space that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. Depending on the size of your space and your personal preferences, various materials are available.
Regardless of the style you’re going for, make sure to look for reliable under-deck ceiling contractors who can help you add a lightweight ceiling system that will protect the space from inclement weather. This will ensure that your new outdoor space can be enjoyed all year round.
Lastly, lighting is crucial in creating a beautiful and functional outdoor area. Consider adding some ambient lighting to make the space feel cozy and inviting. You can use string lights, lanterns, or even solar-powered lights to create the perfect atmosphere.
Incorporate Green Features
If you’re a nature lover, consider incorporating greenery to allow you to enjoy the environment whenever you want. Additionally, they can help regulate your home’s temperature, provide insulation, and even help filter the air. Here are some ideas:
Plant Trees or Shrubs
Planting trees or shrubs around your home’s exterior is a great way to instantly add greenery and charm to the space. Trees help to purify the air, provide shade and privacy, regulate temperature and humidity, reduce noise pollution, and attract birds and other wildlife. Additionally, shrubs are low-maintenance and can help to fill in any gaps in your outdoor landscape.
Install a Living Wall
If you’re looking for something more modern, consider installing a green or living wall. This is essentially an indoor-outdoor feature that consists of vertical gardens filled with plants and succulents. Not only are these walls aesthetically pleasing, but they also provide a way to utilize the limited vertical space you have. Plus, they can help improve air quality since plants naturally filter toxins from the air.
Look Into Green Roof Systems
Finally, consider installing a green roof system if you’re really limited in space. These systems are plants and vegetation planted directly on top of the roof or walls. Not only do they help to reduce energy costs, but they also provide insulation and can even improve air quality by trapping pollutants and giving oxygen.
Smart Storage Solutions
Consider adding some smart storage solutions if your limited outdoor space feels cramped. This approach can help organize and tidy your outdoor area while providing additional seating or storage space. Here are some examples:
Install a Small Shed
Adding a small shed to your outdoor space is a great way to maximize the limited space and provide convenient storage for items such as furniture, gardening tools, and outdoor accessories. Sheds can be constructed from various materials, such as wood, vinyl, or metal, which will help to blend in with the existing design elements of your home’s exterior.
Hideaway Seating
If your outdoor area is too small for traditional seating, consider adding some hideaway seating, such as benches or ottomans. These types of items can provide extra seating without taking up too much space and can be easily tucked away when not in use. Additionally, you can add cushions or throw pillows to make them more comfortable.
Create an Outdoor Storage Wall
Finally, creating an outdoor storage wall can help keep your space organized and efficient. This type of wall typically consists of cabinets and shelves that are built into the side of a house or fence. Not only does this create additional storage space, but it also serves as a great way to add some visual interest to your exterior.
With some smart upgrades, homeowners with limited outdoor space can create a beautiful and functional outdoor area that they’ll love spending time in. Whether you’re a nature lover or gardening enthusiast, plenty of options are available for maximizing your exterior space. From a deck to green roofs, there are a variety of upgrades that can help you make the most of your area. So why wait? Start planning your exterior upgrades today.
