Winter is a great time to start plotting out your spring time landscape design ideas. While you are picking out color schemes for annuals, consider the following ideas to breath fresh life into your outdoor living spaces:

Add a Patio or Revamp the Old One

The patio is the central hub of your outdoor space and should be designed to reflect how you plan to use it. For some, the patio is a great place to install a fire pit for social gatherings; for others, the patio is an extension of their main living area, and will be used almost daily.

Carefully consider how you will most likely use your patio and design it to reflect your personal tastes. When planning your patio, try to match the building materials to your home for a coordinated appearance, and keep it in proportion to the rest of the home.

The Outdoor Kitchen

Patios are for more than throwing a steak on the BBQ. In fact, more homeowners are opting for a complete outdoor kitchen, with food prep areas, cold storage, and multiple cooking options. Outdoor kitchens of any kind are wonderful for entertaining large groups of friends, or hosting an intimate family dinner. Popular additions to the standard grill include:

• Sink with hot and cold taps
• Beverage and food refrigeration storage
• Outdoor ovens
• Stove and grills

Homegrown Goodness

One aspect of landscape design that is often overlooked are container gardens, particularly vegetable gardens. Several types of wholesome vegetables, fruits, and herbs can be successfully grown in decorative planters, including but not limited to:

• Tomatoes
• Squash
• Strawberries
• Peppers
• Spinach
• Cucumbers
• Lettuce
• Carrots
• Beans
• Bananas
• Herbs: Basil, Parsley, Oregano, Rosemary, Chives, Thyme

Include one or more container gardens on your patio or in your outdoor kitchen to add both flavor and beauty to the space.

Other Design Options

Adding container gardens or an outdoor kitchen are among a few ways to freshen up your outdoor living areas. Other popular options include:

• Hot tub installation with ornamental landscaping
• Fish pond with ornamental plants
• Lawn game center with decorative plantings and storage
• Haven filled with beautiful plants and comfortable seating

Your patio should be a natural extension of your home and personality. For more information, or to request a free consultation in the Main Line and surrounding areas, please contact the professionals at Stenger Landscaping today!