Expert tips for getting started
One of the greatest joys about living in Colorado is our state’s natural beauty. That, and its glorious weather. The outside beckons year-round, offering abundant fresh air and sunshine to help us unwind and recharge.
A good way to get a daily dose of outdoor therapy is to create a relaxing oasis in your own backyard. But where to begin?
“Whether you do it yourself, or hire a pro, it all starts with a thoughtful design,” said Kira Koldeway, general manager of design for HighCraft Builders, a custom home and remodeling company in Fort Collins. “Start by envisioning how you’d like to use your backyard, then focus on your must-haves — like a grilling station, entertainment lounge, raised garden beds, or open space for family games.” Whether you tackle it all at once, or in phases, Koldeway said an outdoor design plan can guide you, keep you on budget, and help you feel less overwhelmed.
“A plan also helps you avoid costly mistakes and wasted time,” added Clint Lucas, owner of Fort Collins-based Detailed Landscape. “There’s nothing more frustrating than having to redo work.”
When designing a backyard oasis, Koldeway and Lucas suggested the following to get started:
DEFINE THE SPACE
Whether it’s a cozy hammock for solo naps, or an outdoor entertainment area for gathering with friends, the key is to create an intimate space that echoes your favorite indoor room. Anchor furniture on weather-resistant rugs to define spaces. Install metal or wood screens for added privacy, and plant grasses, trees, or vines for another layer of seclusion once they mature.
MAKE IT SAFE, COMFORTABLE, AND INVITING
Pick outdoor seating for your patio that encourages relaxation. Choose colors and fabrics that draw you in and make you want to stay. Use café or landscape lighting for a soft glow and welcoming atmosphere. To create shade, opt for a tension sail, pergola, awning, or retractable canopy. To add warmth, position chairs around a central fire feature — be sure to check local restrictions if burning wood. For added safety and comfort, ensure activity areas are spacious enough for guests to easily move between activities and around furniture.
BE MINDFUL OF MATERIALS AND WATER
Select durable materials, finishes, and plants that can handle Colorado weather extremes — especially our freeze-thaw cycles, and exposure to UV rays and high winds. Before purchasing any plants, develop a realistic budget, and make sure you’re prepared to care for whatever you put in. Give all plants, especially trees, enough room to grow, and keep them away from your foundation.
To be water wise, reduce turf grass and incorporate drought-tolerant plants. When installing a sprinkler system, include drip lines and rain-sensing technology to conserve water. If adding a water feature, choose a self-circulating sculpture versus a pond or river option.
“Consider your outdoor oasis an investment — one that will bring you joy, support your wellbeing, and will likely increase the value of your home,” Lucas suggested.
If the thought of creating a backyard retreat seems daunting, “Start small,” Koldeway recommended. And if you still feel like you’re in over your head, contact a professional for advice.
Becky Jensen is a writer who lives and works in a little cabin on a big river in Northern Colorado. She’s also a proud member of Poudre Valley REA. You can find her at beckyjensenwrites.com.
