Living in Austin means hot summers and short winters. Unlike in the Texas Gulf Coast, we experience overall pleasant weather that is suited for outdoor activities. While taking a trip out to Lake Travis can certainly be in the cards, you may just want to kick back and relax in the space of your own backyard. If that yard is currently just a plot of land, this means investing in furniture, landscaping, and Austin remodeling. Let’s explore how you can get more out of your outdoor living space.
Consider Your Measurements
Look at the layout of your backyard as it stands. Do you have enough space to expand? If you build a room outside, is it going to take up the whole yard? Would you be able to still participate in your favorite outdoor activities? Knowing the size and shape of your backyard is critical for the design process. If you have land that is long and narrow, for example, it may be difficult to place certain pieces of furniture or additions. Wider land gives you more room to be creative. Consider using the same materials and colors as you do inside your home, in a more casual way. This will keep your house appearing clean and consistent.
Set Your Goals and Budget
Before you get into an Austin remodeling project, know what is important to you. After all, one of the first questions your contractor will ask you will be what your budget is. Much like with the rest of your house, remodeling only has to be as expensive as you make it. If you are someone who loves to host parties, you might choose to go all out with your yard. On the other hand, you may simply want a nice, private place for you and the kids. Think about what you specifically need professional help with and what you are capable of fixing up on your own. Ultimately, it’s in your best interest to implement changes that will make you feel the most comfortable and well-equipped.
Add Value with Austin Remodeling
Over the past few years, outdoor living spaces have overseen growing consumer interest. Work with expert designers to discover how your outdoor living space can be transformed. This can come in the form of lighting, flooring, and custom furniture to make it visually appealing. However, there are many factors that can affect resale value. One of these factors is where you live. Luckily, for Austinites, you will get a better return on investment than a homeowner in the northern region because the space can be used all year long. Another thing to consider is the current value of your home. If your house isn’t worth a lot and you pool a significant amount of money into your backyard, you cannot be sure you’ll make it back when you sell.
Ideas for Your Outdoor Living Space
Whether you are entertaining your household members or guests, you want your backyard to feel comfortable and capable of handling anything. By taking on an Austin remodeling project with a professional design-build company, like Bat City Builders, you can wow anyone who steps foot outside of your home. Here are some great ways you can beautify the space.
Kitchen
Make room for cooktops, sinks, and refrigerators! With a modern outdoor kitchen, you should utilize the same design principles as the kitchen inside your home. Build enough counter space so that everyone who wants to cook has enough room, and use stainless steel appliances that are resistant to the weather.
Dining Room
Perhaps you aren’t fully on board with the idea of an outdoor kitchen, but you still want a place to eat. Outdoor dining spaces need to similarly be designed to withstand the elements. You could also opt for a bar area, which could either stand alone or with your built-in kitchen.
Pergola
During your home remodeling project, you can build a pergola with classic white wood, or even metal with translucent glass. Use foliage to amplify the natural look and filter the sun. If you are hanging a chair or a swing, make sure that the structure is able to handle the weight.
Deck
There are two types of decks that you can go with—elevated and ground-level. Elevated decks tend to extend from the living and dining areas of the main floor. Alternatively, ground-level decks require a slightly raised structure that isn’t attached to the house.
Patio
Create the perfect outdoor seating area with Austin remodeling. Unlike decks, patios are set directly on the ground, so the area needs to be leveled. They are durable additions that are easy to install and require little maintenance.
Pool
Although Austin is home to some of the best swimming holes around, having a pool in your backyard can be just as much fun. Plus, you don’t have to worry about parking! Although having an in-ground or above-ground pool requires a lot of maintenance, it provides a place for your family and guests to chill out in the warmer months.
If you're considering a pool then you might enjoy what Ecopool has to offer. Their pools are built by recycling shipping containers, which is a win/win for all of us. You get a steel structured pool that you can be confident about that also looks amazing.
Edible Garden
Are you interested in branching out your gardening techniques? Better Homes & Gardens found that millions of people took part in “pandemic gardening” in 2020. With edible gardening, you can show off gorgeous greenery as you grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs at home.
As an Austin local, you should be able to enjoy the 300 sunny days per year. In order to be ready for the warmer days ahead, let us help you create your backyard oasis today. Here at Bat City Builders, we offer a variety of Austin remodeling services for outdoor living spaces, including the design and construction of outdoor kitchens, pool houses, and porches. Let’s have a conversation about what you can expect from our services.
Photos, in order of appearance, by:
- Pixabay on Pexels
- Emile-Victor Portenart on Unsplash
- Dim Hou on Unsplash