Many people enjoy the idea of having a patio or a backyard. However, when you walk around, you’ll notice that most patios and backyards are not being utilized. Why is this the case, and what can you do to change it? Here are the real reasons and some solutions to the problem.
The Real Reasons Outdoor Spaces Go Unused
You are not alone in having an unused backyard space. There are several reasons outdoor spaces go unused, and they are:
- Poorly planned
- Lack of comfort
- Lack of purpose
- Hard to maintain
Understanding why outdoor spaces go unused is the first step to fixing the problem.
Poor Layout: When Design Doesn’t Match Daily Life
A backyard or patio can be very nice, but it may not be practical for your needs. The common errors people make when designing their backyard include:
- The seats are too far from the house
- Paths are narrow and confusing
- Everything is crammed together
If you want a practical backyard, make it easy to move around. Put the seats near the door. Keep the paths wide and simple. Leave some open space for the kids/pet to run around.
Designing for Comfort and Improving Backyard Usability
If you are not comfortable, then you will go back inside. The discomfort that makes people go back inside includes:
- No shade from the sun or rain
- Hard, cold chairs
- Nowhere to put drinks, snacks, and books
Here are a few ideas for making your backyard more usable:
- You can use umbrellas for shade.
- You can add cushions to chairs and benches.
- You can add small tables for easier use.
- You can add furniture that is soft and waterproof.
Outdoor Living Space Design Ideas
However, it does not have to break the bank. Here are some easy ideas for an outdoor living space design:
- Hanging string lights or using lanterns to make it usable in the evenings
- Adding an outdoor rug to make it feel cozier
- Using planters to define different zones in the space
- Adding a fire pit to make it fun and cozy
If you want it to be effective, think about how you really live in it. Do you like to eat outside? Do you like to hang out? Do you have kids? Do you like to garden?
Maintenance and Upkeep Challenges
One major reason for this is that backyards are not very easy to maintain. Nobody wants to spend the entire weekend mowing, trimming, and/or cleaning the furniture. Low-maintenance outdoor spaces are definitely easier to enjoy.
Tips for a low-maintenance backyard:
- Pick plants that don’t require a lot of water and trimming
- Use gravel or pavers instead of grass
- Keep all tools and cushions in a weatherproof box
- Pick furniture that’s easy to wipe clean
Lack of Purpose or Defined Zones
A bare and empty space may not be very appealing. If you don’t have a definite reason to go to your outdoor space, you will most probably avoid it. Having a clear use for your outdoor space will encourage you to make use of it.
Outdoor space planning tips:
- A place for eating, such as a picnic table
- A reading area with a comfortable chair
- A place for playing, for kids or pets
- A garden or barbecue area
What Makes Outdoor Spaces Less Functional
Sometimes, they look great, but they are not functional. Here are some things that can make an outdoor space not functional:
- No lighting, especially at night
- Not enough storage space, causing clutter
- Furniture is either too big or too small for the space
Here are some functional outdoor design Ideas:
- Adding solar lighting to the space
- Using benches with storage space inside them
- Picking out furniture that is the right size for the space
Homeowners often look for guidance from experts. When considering their outdoor space, some people seek advice from experts, such as Way To Go Builders Los Angeles, to get ideas and learn how small layout changes can help them use their outdoor areas more often.
Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
You don’t have to make big changes to see results. A few small things you might want to think about are:
- Add a string of lights for a cozy look
- Place a soft cushion on your favorite chair
- Use a small table for drinks and snacks
- Plant some colorful flowers in pots
- Add a basket for outdoor toys or books
Final Thoughts
Most outdoor spaces go unused because they don’t fit with our lifestyle. Poor designs, lack of comfort, lack of purpose, and too much work keep us indoors. But don’t forget, small changes can be very helpful.
The most important thing you should be doing is making your outdoor space comfortable, easy to use, and ready for the things you enjoy. With a little planning and some simple changes, your backyard or patio can be a great place to hang out.