6 Timeless Trends Your Landscaping May Be Missing in Wheaton, IL
If your backyard is missing something and your front yard could use some curb appeal, here’s some inspiration. Get inspired with these 6 timeless trends your landscaping may be missing in Wheaton, IL.
1. A Smaller Lawn and More Native Plants
We agree, lawns can be beautiful! However, if you want more variety in your landscape and find that a lawn takes up too many resources (namely water and time) then it might be time to liven up your landscape with more plants, trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, and ground covers. And you’ll get the best results by choosing native plants that require far less care than their exotic counterparts. A smaller lawn and more native plantings can make your landscape look like a botanical garden. And if you don’t enjoy gardening, then here’s another idea.
2. A Smaller Lawn and a Bigger Outdoor Living Space
If you’re imagining a huge patio that makes your backyard look paved… think again! You could enjoy several small patios - each with a unique purpose and vibe - that are connected by walkways, or immediately adjacent to each other and using elevation (a step or two up or down) to make each space unique. Changes in elevation give a pancake-flat backyard a bit of dimension. This approach of creating individual living spaces outdoors will separate the high-energy areas such as the outdoor kitchen from mellower areas such as a fireside seating area.
You can use different materials on each patio, which is a great option if you simply can’t decide; and unify them with a single material such as a brick border.
One of the most delightful aspects of this approach is that wherever you are outdoors, you’re closer to nature.
3. A Beautiful Entry Area
Take the “smaller lawn, more native vegetation” approach to the front yard, too. A gorgeous paver walkway that culminates in a small entry area enclosed with a sitting wall gives your front entrance more presence and a formal touch. Balance that with lush native vegetation that makes your front lawn significantly livelier and more interesting than an expanse of lawn and some foundation plantings.
4. Shelter
In the hot summer sun, nothing can make outdoor living more appealing than shade. A classic pergola or a solid-roofed pavilion will keep you cooler all summer. There are no size restrictions so you can make them small (just enough shade for a seating area) - or large enough to cover a spacious patio and everything on it, effectively creating an extension of the home.
5. Fire
What’s better than hanging out with friends around a cozy fire? Not much! A fire feature adds warmth and ambience, making your outdoor living space feel warm and welcoming any time of year. Whether you want the grandeur of an outdoor fireplace, the rustic charm of a fire pit, or the chic elegance of a fire table (an entertainer’s dream) a fire feature is a must.
6. A Customized Outdoor Kitchen
If you love to cook, consider a customized outdoor kitchen. Indoors or out, the kitchen is the hub and so it deserves special attention. Customize your kitchen with a wood-fired pizza oven, wine cooler or kegerator, dishwasher, Kamado grill, refrigeration, a griddle, and other outdoor-rated appliances. Be sure to include bar seating to keep everyone in the action while maximizing space.
