TIME WELL SPENT
I have often written about the benefits of enjoying your outdoor spaces, working in your garden, and simply being around plants and trees. The list of health benefits from spending more time in nature is long and gives you plenty of reasons to invest in your landscaping. But let’s not forget, a well-designed space can also add significant value to your home.
The Total Realty Managing Director, Rachel Cone, says the difference can be around five per cent of the value of the property.
That’s worth thinking about when deciding how to spend any cash reserves that you might typically spend on travel.
If you decide to draw on those savings to invest in your landscaping, whether you’re embarking on a major house renovation that includes landscaping or just a garden redesign or simply planting – it is always best to set a budget and consult with a professional who has the knowledge and expertise.
Also, with the property market humming away, you may also be thinking of making improvements before selling. If you are wondering where to start, a foolproof plan is to add good quality materials such as paving or decking, a well-designed courtyard, plenty of fresh, healthy plants, and a lush lawn.
If you are missing the luxuries that come with holidaying in this current climate, there are lots of ways you can bring elements of that resort/holiday feel to your outdoor living at home. Discuss with your designer the feeling you would like to create, and they will be able to suggest ideas of how to achieve this.
Focus on comfort by introducing an outdoor fire where you can gather with friends and family until late into the night. If you love to cook, then an outdoor kitchen creates a focal point for anything from weekday family dinners to big summer parties, or the Christmas Day barbeque.
Seek inspiration from the colours and textures found in nature and use this to select your complementary pots, plants, outdoor rugs, throws, cushions, and tableware. Nothing evokes a destination like the smell
of freshly cooked food, a scent of a particular flower, candles, and others that remind you of a favourite holiday spot.
And of course, what is a summer holiday without somewhere to swim and cool off. A swimming pool is the ultimate backyard luxury and if you love water – or have children – then nothing beats it. On the other hand, if a relaxing massage and warm soak is more your style, then a spa pool is a treat you can enjoy all year round.
For total relaxation, set yourself a deadline to have all those outdoor chores finished. Then pick a lemon from your new tree, pour yourself a long, cold drink, and put your feet up.