patio lovers Archives

Tips For Homeowners to Save For Landscaping Upgrades

Posted on February 10, 2017March 3, 2017 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Patio lovers can make their dreams come true this year by saving up for a beautiful new outdoor area. A patio is a perfect spot to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors in every season. Here are some tips for homeowners to save for landscaping upgrades and a lovely patio this year:

Be selective. If you’re working with a budget, you’ll want to be selective about where you spend the bulk of your money. Focus on the must-have features that you want. Do plan to spend money on high quality patio furniture, since it will make your space more stylish and comfortable. Choosing quality outdoor furnishings will also ensure that they hold up well in the outdoors. Think about other features you would love to include, such as a water feature, a heat source like a fire pit, and any kind of outdoor food prep area.

Hire professionals. Don’t risk losing money on a poorly done patio. Hire skilled professionals who can show you a portfolio of attractive completed jobs they’ve done for other clients. Share your vision with them and ask questions. They should be able to understand what you want and what will work best for your property and budget. Make sure that the contractors you choose are insured and have references. They should be able to understand your wants and execute your vision within a reasonable amount of time and for a fair price.

Plan on plants. Plan to soften and beautify the patio by using plants to enhance the surrounding landscaping. Choose colorful flowers, shrubs, and other plants that are the right size and shape for the space around the patio. Depending on the space you have, you can create colorful flower beds that will add texture and charm without costing a fortune. By focusing on a great design, you’ll be able to save and achieve the patio you’ve always wanted.

Tips For Cooking In The Outdoor Kitchen of Your Dreams

Posted on January 13, 2017January 19, 2017 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Outdoor kitchens can add an entirely new dimension to any backyard. They are also great for adding tremendous value to a property. These gems can range from simple to extremely elaborate. Some of these kitchens are complete with amenities like grill, oven, island, countertops, sink and a bar area.

Your dream outdoor kitchen will be largely determined by your budget and design preferences. However, regardless of the kitchen you decide on, it is important to think about the relationship between the outdoor and indoor kitchens. You should consider things like the traffic pattern between the two spaces and how they will be used when entertaining. A great flow between both kitchens will make using them more seamless.

In addition, the design of your dream outdoor kitchen should complement the architecture and landscape of your property. This can be done by using compatible materials and incorporating understated architectural details.

Ideally, low-maintenance equipment and materials should be used in your outdoor kitchen. They should also be able to endure the rigors of the elements. If your kitchen is easy to clean and maintain, you will be more likely to use it on a regular basis. High-quality stainless steel can provide a sanitary, easily-cleaned and corrosion-resistant surface. This makes it a popular choice among homeowners. Countertop materials should also have the capacity to withstand high temperatures and be extremely resistant to grease stains.

A reputable landscaping professional will assist you in designing the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. With help from the above-mentioned outdoor tips, you can tell the designer your ideas and collaborate in creating the perfect outdoor kitchen for you.

Having the outdoor kitchen of your dreams will open up a world of possibilities where cooking and entertaining is concerned. It could also create a highly-functional and visually-appealing centerpiece for your landscape.

Tips To Use Your Patio For Holiday Parties

Posted on December 8, 2016December 15, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

The colder temperatures that are synonymous with the holiday season can make it less comfortable for patio lovers to entertain outdoors. However, with proper preparation, a bit of creativity and the entertaining tips below, you will be able to make the space warmer and continue to host parties during the holidays.

Fire Features. There is no better way to bring heat to your patio holiday party than with a fire feature. There is the option of using temporary or permanent fire pits of fireplaces to keep guests warm.

Fire Pits. Fire pits are more budget friendly and can be strategically placed around the patio to maximize comfort. The portable ones can be brought in when needed and can immediately warm up the patio. One or more permanent fire pits can be ignited before the party to ensure the space is warm and comfortable for arriving guests. For homeowners who are concerned about the visual impact of the landscape design, the better option is permanent fire pits. They can be professionally built to complement the overall landscape design.

Fireplaces. Outdoor fireplaces are great additions to any outdoor holiday party. Not only are they highly functional, they can serve as the centerpiece for the entire backyard. There structures are visually appealing and will bring warmth and great vibes to your celebrations. This option is more expensive than fire pits; however, it also offers a lot more in terms of function and visual impact. A professionally designed outdoor fireplace, which complements the patio or other landscaping features is ideal if it falls within your budget.

You can also visually warm up the patio by decorating with upholstered cushions, blankets and pillows in vibrant holiday colors. In addition, you could consider using a rug to add to the warmth and coziness of the patio.

Top Patio Furniture Brands For Winter

Posted on December 1, 2016December 7, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

An increasing number of homeowners are extending the use of their patio well into the winter season. Contrary to what some people might believe, the right landscaping design and patio furniture can make the patio usable during the winter season. Below are some tips on top patio furniture brands that can be used when the temperature drops:

Braxton Culler. This brand of outdoor furniture has a large number of weatherproof pieces. Many of their outdoor furniture pieces are handcrafted from extruded resin and materials resin weaves; this makes them totally weatherproof and ideal for use throughout the year, including during the winter season. Each collection has Xylan-coated hardware, high-density materials and fade-resistant plastic that is 90% recycled. These materials and technologies safeguard your patio furniture against even the harshest of winters.

Ebel. Ebel Inc. is headquartered in Jacksonville and they are renowned manufacturers of incredible outdoor furniture and appliances. They are committed to manufacturing strong and durable products and ensure the pieces are low maintenance to heighten consumer satisfaction.

They endeavor to operate in an environmentally responsible manner. They do this by reducing the amount of waste generated during the manufacturing process and decreasing the quantity of harmful cleansers required for cleaning and maintaining their products.

Additionally, all of their weather wicker and aluminum pieces are 100 percent recyclable. Their teak wood is also harvested solely from sustainable plantations. Along with their remarkable collections of patio furniture, Ebel offers a wide range of fire pits. These are sure to keep your patio warm when entertaining family members and friends.

These are just two of the many notable brands of patio furniture that can be used during the winter season. With durable, weatherproof furniture, actual and visual warmth and a bit of creativity, you can safely and comfortably use your patio throughout the year.

Tips To Combine Lighting and Warmth In Your Backyard Design

Posted on November 11, 2016November 28, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

A well-planned and executed backyard design expands your living space. In addition, it enables you to eat, entertain and even cook outdoors, without needing to book a reservation. Late spring and summer are typically viewed as the ideal seasons for backyard entertaining.

However, a well-designed outdoor space can allow you to continue spending time with family or entertaining guests well into the fall. Incorporating interior design ideas into your outdoor space is a remarkable method of adding value, versatility and fun to your property. Below are some landscaping tips that can be used to combine lighting and warmth in your backyard design:

Outdoor Fireplace. Nothing exudes luxury, comfort and warmth quite like an elegant fireplace. Incorporating a fireplace in your backyard design will add to both the illumination and warmth of the space. They look very much like their indoor counterparts; equipped with a chimney, hearth, firebox and flue. Additionally, there are a number of styles and types to choose from.

Heat Lamps. Adding heat lamps also allows you to enjoy your backyard design well into the cooler temperatures of the fall. They add warmth and can also be used as an attractive centerpiece to bring ambiance to the space.

How To Use Your Outdoor Patio For Thanksgiving Entertaining

Posted on November 4, 2016November 13, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

As the festive mood grips each one of us, there is the unrelenting temptation to settle into the usual routine of buying Christmas turkey, selecting eccentric stuffing and inviting relatives over for dinner. Of course, sitting around a table in the beautiful glow of Christmas lights in a cozy indoor atmosphere is somewhat of a sacred American tradition that lends itself to much excitement and merry making. However, there is no reason why you shouldn’t break the ranks and consider an outdoor thanksgiving celebration, especially if you’re blessed with a patio. All you really need is a few tips from seasoned outdoor decor specialists.

Think In Terms Of Color: A Little Vibrancy Won’t Kill

When the word thanksgiving is mentioned, colorful images flare up in the mind. So quite naturally, your outdoor landscaping designs must exude vibrancy. Planting flowers like lilies and petunias, plants like sedum, and colorfully leafy plants like bronze and golden mums, is a great way to ‘implant’ effervescence to your walkways, porches and patios.

Flowering Vines: A Tangling Delight

Vines have a penchant of being all over the place, rambling over walls, fences, trellises and anything they can wrap themselves around. There are, however, some pretty delightful vines out there that actually bloom in a wide array of colours, like the clematis. The clematis vines bloom in purple, pink, red and the occasionally rare blue. Having these will surely add a touch of sophistication if that is what you seek to impart to your outdoor thanksgiving dinner party.

Fill The Air With Sweet Aromas

There is nothing quite like a flower that gives off a sweet aroma by its mere presence. One particular flower that quickly comes to mind is the cranium. Not only are cranium lilies fragrant, but they are beautiful as well.

Outdoor entertaining for thanksgiving is never easy, especially if you wish to be different. But if you take time to consult with leading landscaping

Popular Fall Landscaping Designs For Patio Owners

Posted on October 14, 2016October 18, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Lounging around or entertaining guests in the backyard might still be possible where you live. Patio lovers know that this space can be ideal for lounging or entertaining during the fall. These fall landscaping design tips can be used to transform your patio into a warm and cozy retreat well into the season:

Bring on the Heat: A fireplace is a great feature for any patio that will be used during the fall. To make it even more functional, the fireplace border can be extended to create a back for built-in benches on either side of the fireplace. With some comfy seats and cushion, this will be a great spot to spend precious time with loved ones. Additionally, if your patio backs up to the border of your yard, enough space could be included to plant some dense, tall-growing shrubs or trees.

Create Warmth with Your Design Choices: If your patio is large, you can transform it into smaller, more intimate spaces. You can use a combination on freestanding and built-in furniture pieces to define spaces. For example, you can have a bench built around a fire pit to enjoy the company of loved ones in a more intimate setting. A single flooring material can also be used to give the different spaces a cohesive feel.

To add to the flair of the space, a touch of whimsy can be added with cushions and pillows in beautiful fall colors. In addition to dressing up chairs and benches, they will add to the coziness of the seating areas.

These are just a few tips on how patio lovers can continue to enjoy the space during the fall season. In essence, fall colors, comfy seating and a fire feature are the main necessities of enjoying patio time during the season. Everything else is just an added bonus.

How to Bring Your Interior Style to Your Outdoor Living Space

Posted on September 9, 2016March 7, 2022 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Decorating the interior of your home is one of the best ways to express your personal style, and patio lovers can carry that to the outdoors. Your outdoor living space doesn’t have to look and feel like an entirely separate area of your home. These decorating tips and tricks will help you transform your outdoor space into a cozy, comfortable spot to enjoy throughout the year.

Mimic your living room. Think of your outdoor seating and entertaining area as an additional living room. Include furnishings like a sofa, side tables, and a larger coffee table. You’ll want to choose items that can withstand the weather, but there are still plenty of comfortable options for cushions and pillows. Add touches like throw blankets, coffee table books for browsing, and coasters for beverages. Don’t be afraid to hang a few pieces of artwork or other decorative items on the walls.

Consider comfort. If you want to truly enjoy your patio, you’ll want to make it as comfortable as possible. When the weather is cooler, be sure to have a few blankets to wrap up in. A fireplace, chiminea, or fire pit are the perfect focal points to add warmth and create a cozy vibe. In the fall, a fire feature will allow you to linger outdoors for hours. You’ll be able to settle down with a good book, a glass of wine, or even enjoy a board game with the family.

Create zones. A great way to establish designated areas on a patio is by using curtains and furniture to create zones. Hanging curtains also allows you to add color and patterns, and it can give you more privacy outside. You can make a specific area for dining and food preparation, and keep it separate from the seating and lounge area.

Don’t be afraid to allow your personal style to shine through in your outdoor living space. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create an outdoor area that feels like an extension of your home’s interior.

Simple Tips For Hosting A Tailgate Party On Your Patio

Posted on August 5, 2016August 30, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Patios are great places to entertain. You can hold a variety of parties including a tailgate party during football season. With the right game to broadcast, equipment and enthusiasm, you can have a wonderful championship party by following a few easy tailgating tips.

The outdoor theater set up has to be large enough for optimal viewing by many people. There are now waterproof televisions you can rent for outdoor entertaining.
You need to have lots of comfortable seating for your guests. In addition to folding chairs and stools, you can use oversized pillows and cushions, benches, and even a sofa.
At a backyard tailgate party you can have traditional foods such as burgers and hot dogs, or anything else you want such as ribs, chili, or soup. As long as you have enough food to sustain your guests, the type of food really will not matter.
You can ask guests to bring their favorite tailgate appetizers or finger foods to share so people have a wider range of foods to sample.
If you are using a grill, you can ask a few guests to take shifts manning the grill so you do not spend all your time cooking.
In case of sudden bad weather, you need to have a contingency plan. If it starts to rain, you can move the party indoors or have a large tent ready to put up. If the temperature turns chilly, a space heater or fire pit can warm up guests. You can also pass out blankets or throws to keep guests cozy.

A backyard tailgating party can be lots of fun if you plan it well. With the right mix of people, food, and comfort, you patio tailgate party could be legendary.

When you are ready to redesign your outdoor living space, contact Hidden Creek Landscaping for ideas, installation and maintenance.

Tips To Make Outdoor Entertaining Easy

Posted on June 30, 2016July 29, 2016 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Summer is the ideal season for outdoor lovers. One of the best ways to enjoy your beautifully landscaped yard is to host friends and family. There is nothing quite like enjoying fine company, good food and exceptional weather in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. Below are some easy entertaining tips to make your next outdoor gathering a success:

Mow to Perfection. Make sure to mow your lawn and prune your shrubs and trees. When entertaining outdoors, you should ensure your yard is looking its best. Call Hidden Creek Landscaping to handle this task for you and free up more time to prep for entertaining your fellow outdoor lovers.

Remain Cool. The summer heat is no joke and can quickly zap the energy out of both your guests and the party itself. Therefore, you should avoid hosting outdoor events between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m; during this time, the sun is at its hottest and very difficult to escape. You can opt for a brunch in the morning, a mixer late in the afternoon or host an evening dinner party on your beautifully manicured lawn. Even at these more ideal periods, the heat can be persistent. As such, you can provide guests with spritz bottles filled with iced water to cool their faces and arms. You should also ensure there are plenty of cold beverages to keep your guests hydrated.

Provide Lots of Comfy Seating. Use cushions and pillows to cover your chairs, benches and sofas to make them extra comfortable. You can even get a few oversized pillows to throw on the grass to provide additional seating. Cluster the seating areas so guests will find it easy to mingle with each other.

Having made these provisions, you can add mood music. However, it should be at a level that doesn’t interfere with conversations among guests.

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