As the northern New Jersey weather turns warmer and area homeowners make their summer plans, many are opting to stay at home to enjoy their time off - a trend that has helped coin the phrase "staycation." Adding to this local vacation flavor, one recent poll found that two-thirds of homeowners say they would rather have a barbecue or cookout at home than eat at a restaurant.
Taking advantage of both of these trends as people search for a relaxing place to escape to this summer is the ability to create an Oasis in their own backyards. Whether they are seeking solace from the maddening crowd or just want to enjoy relaxing with family and friends, there is potential located just beyond patio doors to transform any Outdoor space into a personal retreat.
The solution is what the industry is calling "Patioscaping," which is essentially the art of transforming a simple backyard into an elegant Outdoor Oasis.
Patioscaping offers the advantage of Creating a beautiful Outdoor patio space without having to make a significant investment in remodeling. As homeowners consider investing in an Outdoor living space, here are some tips that will make a big difference in the look and functionality of a property:
* Know a home's style. It's important to have an understanding of a home's architectural style when Creating an Outdoor room, so that the Outdoor patio space complements the indoor living space. Whatever theme is carried Outdoors, it should reflect the home's style, whether it's a Victorian, a Craftsman or a ranch-style home.
* Determine the use of the space. Once the general architectural style of a home and, by extension, a patioscape, is determined it's then time to think about the activities that will take place there. If the family likes to entertain, consider planning a food preparation area or built-in counter to serve as a buffet or serving space. If the homeowner wants to lounge and read in blissful silence, include a hammock, chaise lounges or wooden benches with pillows covered in durable Outdoor fabrics. Make a sketch using scale-model drawings of furniture that would look good and fit this purpose.
* Set the stage with the right door. The entry to an Outdoor patio space creates the impression of what's to follow on the other side. And because summertime barbecues, pool parties and picnics funnel traffic through a home's patio door, make it a pleasant experience - avoid irritating traffic jams, frayed screens and cloudy glass by installing doors that can stand up to the high traffic and look good over time. For example, patio doors made with fiberglass offer an ideal blend of beauty and durability and they come in a variety of styles. Fiberglass patio doors are Designed as a complete system with components that work together to form the tightest seal possible, Creating an energy-efficient envelope.
* Make a green space even greener. While shrubs and trees can add important texture to green space, homeowners don't need to completely re-Landscape their yards. Colorful flowering plants around a patio's perimeter can create a dramatic effect and serve as a visual boundary from the rest of the yard, Creating an intimate space that evokes an actual room.
* Let there be light. Another inexpensive way to add atmosphere to an Outdoor patio space is to install accent lighting. String lights in festive colors and shapes; add drama by lighting a pathway to the garden, pool or pond; accent trees with lights at ground level or in the branches. There is nothing more beautiful than candlelight Outdoors - just be sure to use sturdy candle holders that won't tip over. Plus, a well-thought-out exterior lighting Design delivers 360-degree home security for your exterior.
* Allow for family fun. Many families use the patio as a playground equipped with toys, swings, basketball hoops and wading pools. Add a clean storage area to protect bikes and toys when not in use, as well as indoor/Outdoor floor coverings to protect children from scrapes and bruises.
By following these patio planning basics in Creating the perfect Outdoor patio space, any backyard will be transformed into a private Oasis that families will enjoy all summer and for many years to come.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Creating an Outdoor Oasis Through Landscape Design
As the northern New Jersey weather turns warmer and area homeowners make their summer plans, many are opting to stay at home to enjoy their time off - a trend that has helped coin the phrase "staycation." Adding to this local vacation flavor, one recent poll found that two-thirds of homeowners say they would rather have a barbecue or cookout at home than eat at a restaurant.
Taking advantage of both of these trends as people search for a relaxing place to escape to this summer is the ability to create an Oasis in their own backyards. Whether they are seeking solace from the maddening crowd or just want to enjoy relaxing with family and friends, there is potential located just beyond patio doors to transform any Outdoor space into a personal retreat.
The solution is what the industry is calling "Patioscaping," which is essentially the art of transforming a simple backyard into an elegant Outdoor Oasis.
Patioscaping offers the advantage of Creating a beautiful Outdoor patio space without having to make a significant investment in remodeling. As homeowners consider investing in an Outdoor living space, here are some tips that will make a big difference in the look and functionality of a property:
* Know a home's style. It's important to have an understanding of a home's architectural style when Creating an Outdoor room, so that the Outdoor patio space complements the indoor living space. Whatever theme is carried Outdoors, it should reflect the home's style, whether it's a Victorian, a Craftsman or a ranch-style home.
* Determine the use of the space. Once the general architectural style of a home and, by extension, a patioscape, is determined it's then time to think about the activities that will take place there. If the family likes to entertain, consider planning a food preparation area or built-in counter to serve as a buffet or serving space. If the homeowner wants to lounge and read in blissful silence, include a hammock, chaise lounges or wooden benches with pillows covered in durable Outdoor fabrics. Make a sketch using scale-model drawings of furniture that would look good and fit this purpose.
* Set the stage with the right door. The entry to an Outdoor patio space creates the impression of what's to follow on the other side. And because summertime barbecues, pool parties and picnics funnel traffic through a home's patio door, make it a pleasant experience - avoid irritating traffic jams, frayed screens and cloudy glass by installing doors that can stand up to the high traffic and look good over time. For example, patio doors made with fiberglass offer an ideal blend of beauty and durability and they come in a variety of styles. Fiberglass patio doors are Designed as a complete system with components that work together to form the tightest seal possible, Creating an energy-efficient envelope.
* Make a green space even greener. While shrubs and trees can add important texture to green space, homeowners don't need to completely re-Landscape their yards. Colorful flowering plants around a patio's perimeter can create a dramatic effect and serve as a visual boundary from the rest of the yard, Creating an intimate space that evokes an actual room.
* Let there be light. Another inexpensive way to add atmosphere to an Outdoor patio space is to install accent lighting. String lights in festive colors and shapes; add drama by lighting a pathway to the garden, pool or pond; accent trees with lights at ground level or in the branches. There is nothing more beautiful than candlelight Outdoors - just be sure to use sturdy candle holders that won't tip over. Plus, a well-thought-out exterior lighting Design delivers 360-degree home security for your exterior.
* Allow for family fun. Many families use the patio as a playground equipped with toys, swings, basketball hoops and wading pools. Add a clean storage area to protect bikes and toys when not in use, as well as indoor/Outdoor floor coverings to protect children from scrapes and bruises.
By following these patio planning basics in Creating the perfect Outdoor patio space, any backyard will be transformed into a private Oasis that families will enjoy all summer and for many years to come.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Factors You Must Consider Before Hiring a Landscape Design Company
Looking out for a Landscaper? Perhaps knowing what and where to look for a reputed Landscaper will help you derive the maximum out of your money. A Landscaper will have the expertise, creative insight and knowledge required to convert your simple yard into an oasis. ReDesigning the yard from the scratch can be a daunting task; the only way to simplify the process is by having a reputed Designer at your side who can guide you through the process. Compiled in this article are guidelines to select a qualified Landscape Designer.
Experienced
Experience counts in every field. Look for a Landscape Designer with some level of knowledge and expertise in the field. From conceptualization, Designing, installation to maintenance, a Designer will be responsible for every minuscule detail. So beforehand verify the level of experience of the Landscape Designer, their track record, work history, ask for referrals, cross check clients testimonials and accordingly make a choice. A tried-and-tested way to discern if the Company is capable of handling your scale of project is by pursuing their work samples.
Short list Landscape Designers
A good way to find qualified Landscape professionals is by asking close friends and local gardening centres for recommendations. A simple search conducted on the Internet will provide you with a classified listing of top ranking Landscape Designers across your area. Narrow down the list based on the level of experience, qualifications and training that each prospective Company boasts of. Arrange for personal interviews with the candidates that seem the most promising. Take time to view their websites, which will provide all the information you could possibly need to know about the Company.
Budget
The budget is a major aspect that Factors in while hiring a Landscape Designer. Prices charged by different service companies vary to the great extent. Shop around to find best prices on the services. Get price quotes from multiple sources and compare rate to get value for the money invested. It is good idea, to opt for a Company that offers all services from installation, Designing to maintenance under one roof, this way you will be able to save exorbitant sums of money.
Important questions to ask
As a client, you are bound to have many questions that are best cleared before you could commence on the project. It is advisable to ask the Company beforehand for a timetable for completion of the work. During the time of the interview, make it a point to clear all the doubts you might have. Once you have shortlisted who you want to hire, get a written contract ready. A legal binding contract is imperative to protect the interest of all the parties involved.
Blueprint
Before getting started with the Designing process, it is important to chalk out the basic plan and then start the Designing process adhering to the plan. During the Designing process, a Landscape Designer will assiduously assess the clients unique requirement, desired amenities, available outdoor space and existing Design of the property, based on which will create the blueprint of your Landscape.
Friday, March 22, 2013
Planning Your Landscape Design
If your back yard is a mess or your front lawn needs a makeover, then this article will help you. There are many ways by which you can bring life to your dull lawns. Landscape Designing can help you create a garden which will enhance the overall aesthetics of your house. The article will help you in Planning the whole operation so that it becomes easier for you to undertake this activity.
A rough idea: After you have made the decision that you want to beautify your lawn, the first thing to do is to prepare a rough sketch or the layout. In the layout you should try to make a rough outline of how do you want your lawn to look. In the sketch you can demarcate areas such as dining spaces, ponds, fountains, sitting area etc. when you prepare the sketch to be imaginative and bold. You can also surf the net for more ideas. When you are satisfied with the rough layout, and then only proceed to the next stage.
Kind of Landscape: A garden can be beautified with the help of flowers, grass, rocks, wood, fountains, ponds etc. If you are looking to make the garden more natural, then you can go for more plants and less rocks. But if you think that you don't want to spend time and money on maintenance, then you can go for rocks or a hard cape Design. In a horoscope Design you can introduce driftwoods, ponds and other rock sculptures.
Access to the garden: Planning the access to the garden is an important aspect. How do you wish to access the garden is something which depends purely upon the Landscape? An access plan should be specified in the rough sketch and a pathway can be constructed with the help of pebbles, stones and bricks. These stones come cheap and the pathways can be constructed easily.
Adding that something extra: If you wish for something more, then feel free. There are many ways by which you can make your lawn more interesting. You can take the help of a fountain, rock sculpture or even create a lawn according to a theme. All these things will require more Planning and research but all the efforts will be worth it.
Maintenance: If you are really into gardening and have time, then I must suggest that you should maintain your garden yourself. It gives a sense of satisfaction. But if you don't have that much time, then you can hire professionals to do the maintenance job. These professionals have a lot of experience and can provide you with all kinds of solutions.
Newtex Landscape had broad and deep experience in residential construction, commercial construction and commercial maintenance provides us with a solid experience base in the landscaping trade.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Best Landscape Designs to Have a Beautiful Garden
Everyone dreams of having a Beautiful home - their dream home! It usually comprises of a big house, a swimming pool and an amazing Garden. Well, it's not possible if you don't plan it all before you begin. So, let's just take a look at a few of the Best Landscape design practices that you could employ when planning out the Landscape of your Garden:
Do the right things at the right places
One of the most important facts that you should know about when designing your Garden be it the front yard or the back yard is that of striking a balance. Your Garden is going to look good only if everything is done in a sort of proportion.
You can plant beds of flowers and surround them by rocky borders on either side as these look really good and are quite popular. However, this looks good only when done along the pathway and not in the centre of your Garden.
Symmetrical and Asymmetrical balance
Most homes have Gardens wherein they have symmetrical balance. However, if you want your Garden to be unique you should try and plan it in such a way that your Garden isn't symmetrical; but at the same time looks great and strikes a balance.
All that you need to strike a balance is the right plants, rocks and water bodies. In some cases you should even consider planting small trees as a combination of these elements adds beauty to your Garden.
Colour combinations
When it comes to Gardens flowering plants are always a part of the Landscape. However, apart from flowering plants you should also try and plant some fancy plants that have colourful leaves.
One of the Best things to do is choose around two or three colours and repeat them all around the Garden as this offers a sense of continuity and your Garden looks great and at the same time not cluttered.
Therefore, sticking to a few colours is one of the most important points to note when it comes to successful landscaping.
Water bodies
There are plenty of different kinds of water bodies that you could install in your Gardens. Take a look at the various options that would suit your Garden considering your budget and the space available.
Once you decide what you need you could go ahead and buy yourself a kit and install it on your Garden within a few hours.
