Design expert tips on creating the ultimate backyard space

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Pool time

“Adding a pool of any size to your outdoor space is a luxury that is well worth the investment. A shallow entertainment pool is a great option for those who want to cool off in the summer months, yet if you are an avid swimmer, a lap pool deep enough for diving may be well used.”

– Designer Kate Davidson, Kate +Co Design Inc

kitchen

Outdoor kitchen + dining

“A well-designed outdoor kitchen space is an absolute dream for homeowners who love to host during the warmer months. Including temperature control features such as a fan, heaters and shade can extend the outdoor cooking and hosting season by months.”

– Designer Trisha Isabey, Isabey Interiors

lounge

Lounge area

“Whether you opt for a cozy nook or a spacious patio, a well-designed lounge area can enhance the overall esthetic of the backyard and create a perfect place for entertaining and leisure activities.”

– Sara Duck, contributing editor of RENO+DECOR magazine

lighting

Ambient lighting

“Faced with rising inflation, homeowners will be looking for small home investments that make a big impact. Lighting has the ability to completely change the look and feel of an outdoor space without breaking the bank. Candles, tiki torches, string lights and fire features add warmth and ambience to an outdoor space and can help to extend the time you are able to spend outdoors, both in hours and weeks.”

– Leslie Adkins, vice-president of marketing and ESG development for Trex Company

privacy

Privacy

“Creating an outdoor private oasis is so crucial for the homeowner’s well-being. It could be an intimate nook to read a book and sip on lemonade on a Sunday afternoon or large enough to host a gathering with friends and share a meal. Regardless of the size, privacy can be achieved with tall fencing that can be a design feature on its own, including plants and trees for shade and privacy as well.”

– Diana Rose, Diana Rose Architectural & Interior Design

Get the look

  1. Outdoor wood privacy screen with planters by Yardistry. $599. homedepot.ca
  2. Luxe lie-on pool float in limon butter by Sunnylife. $94. indigo.ca
  3. Nantucket liquid propane firebowl in grey concrete by Modeno. $879. rona.ca
  4. Jeannie three-piece teak outdoor sectional by Leanne Ford. $7,997. crateandbarrel.ca
  5. Linear outdoor cut-out dining table. $4,499. westelm.ca
  6. Primo pizza oven with stand. $1,980. ciaobellapizzaovens.com
Sara Duck
Sara Duck

With over 15 years' experience as a magazine editor, writer and content creator, Sara brings her passion for design and decor to our pages each issue. @bysaraduck

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