Summer is Officially Here!

Beautiful fenced yards at the Parc at Chastain in Sandy Springs.

Is your yard ready for summertime guests and backyard BBQs? Just like your home interior, your yard and patio areas may need an occasional refresh. Here are a few ideas to make your outdoor living area a new conversation starter.

Water feature.  Visually pleasing and calming, a water element can also help with environment conservation.  Depending on your yard’s layout, you can go big with a pond or waterfall, or small by creating your own bird bath or mini water garden.  Whatever you decide, the simple sounds of a water feature can create a peaceful outdoor oasis which may even have some therapeutic benefits.

Sun filled decks at Cosmopolitan in Buckhead

Lighting.  Adding exterior illumination not only adds functionality to a yard or deck, but also adds a nice ambiance. String lights are an inexpensive and fun way to add some light to your patio. No outlets close by? Solar lanterns or solar deck lights charge while the sun is out and then turn into LED bulbs at dusk.   Maybe you have a slight bug issue… citronella candles and tiki torches with refillable citronella oil can keep unwanted insects at bay.

Music.  What’s a summer party with no music? Treat your guests to the best sound quality with wired outdoor speakers.  Prefer your outdoor audio to blend into your surroundings, wireless rock speakers or speakers hidden inside planters may be more your style. Music sets the tone for any backyard gathering and nowadays small Bluetooth speakers are a portable option that fills a patio with music and yet is small enough to store inside when not in use.

Amzing Outdoor Living Spaces – Long Island Parc in Sandy Springs

Fire feature.   A fire feature can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for you and your guests.  You can keep it simple with a portable outdoor fire pit  or gas fire table. Or get a little more extravagant with an impressive outdoor fireplace. But the best part of adding a fire feature is being able to extend your time outdoors through the Summer and well into the Fall.