Winter is the perfect time for dreaming about a backyard makeover that would let you enjoy the great outdoors in the way you love—a backyard that ticks all the boxes. To get you started, consider these options for backyard designs in Huntington, NY.
A Multi-Sport Court
If your backyard is spacious enough and you and your family enjoy outdoor games like basketball, volleyball, or badminton, consider adding a multi-sport court. For smaller landscapes or to make use of a neglected side yard, consider a bocce court, outdoor bowling lane, or putting green. A life-sized backyard chess court is not only great fun for the whole gang, but it’s beautiful to look at even when it’s not in use.
A Water Slide/Waterfall Combo
For backyards with pools, nothing offers an exotic touch with a hefty dose of fun than a water slide/waterfall combination. A waterfall, especially one you can swim under, will turn your pool into a wonderful getaway. Waterfalls can be constructed of natural boulders, flat stones, or manufactured stone—or a combination of materials—which means each one is completely unique. Add a slide and you’ll keep the kids busy for hours!
Elevated Spa
There’s something magical about soaking in a hot tub while overlooking the landscape and taking in the sunset. When you take it to the next level by opting to elevate the spa, vertical interest in the landscape is achieved; it’s also the perfect opportunity to tie your hardscape together using masonry elements.
Permanent Shade
Patio umbrellas are fine for short-term use, but they are also incredibly inconvenient: they must be repositioned often, they fade in the sun, they’re susceptible to damage from strong winds, and they can damage pavers when they get dragged around.
Instead, opt for a more chic alternative: a pergola. For best results, orient your pergola to take advantage of the best views and add amenities like an outdoor fireplace or a beverage center to let you relax without constant trips to the house. Consider adding a roof as well, which will turn the pergola into a multi-season party center (even after the pool is drained for the season).
Fire Feature
An outdoor fireplace or fire pit will extend your entertaining season well into winter. Like other vertical elements in your backyard, it’s an opportunity to tie the hardscape together with masonry. For use near pools, opt for gas-fueled fire features to avoid the mess (and potential splinters) inherent with wood fires. Install a fire table near an outdoor kitchen or grill station to add a sophisticated touch. Fire tables are real conversation starters that let you combine the warmth of fire with the delights of sharing a meal with family and friends.
Related: HOW TO MAKE YOUR OUTDOOR FIREPLACE THE FOCAL POINT OF YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE IN SAG HARBOR, NY
Outdoor Kitchen
From simple grill stations to high-end professional kitchens with every amenity, the outdoor kitchen will quickly become the heart of your outdoor “home.”
Related: CONSIDER THESE MATERIALS FOR YOUR HUNTINGTON, NY, OUTDOOR KITCHEN
Seating Walls
Even pancake-flat backyards can benefit from a seating wall or two. Not just designed to hold back earth, retaining walls can serve double duty in defining spaces and providing additional seating. A seating wall around a fire feature prevents the clutter of patio furniture, and it’s also a great way to discreetly install landscape lighting.
