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Transform Your Home's Neglected Side: 7 Outdoor Makeover Tips!

January 22, 2024

Every house has its secrets, tucked away corners that are often overlooked. One such space is the 'dead area' outside our homes - relegated to housing water tanks, air conditioning units, and refuse.

But imagine if this forgotten side could be more than just a utility area. What if it could be transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space that adds value to your home and life?

This comprehensive guide will explore seven innovative ways to revitalise this neglected space.

By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with practical, actionable strategies to improve your home's aesthetics and enhance your everyday living experience.

Home outdoors

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#1 Cultivating a Green Oasis with Shade-Loving Plants

Why let a lack of sunlight dampen your spirits or your garden?

Certain plants thrive in shaded areas, bringing life and colour to otherwise gloomy spaces. Think of lush ferns, vibrant hostas, and other shade-loving varieties that can transform your dead area into a green haven.

Not only does this improve the aesthetic appeal of your home, but it also contributes to a healthier living environment.

Steps

Research Suitable Plants: Look into plants that thrive in low light, like ferns, hostas, and ivy. Choose varieties that are both aesthetically pleasing and suitable for your climate.

Soil and Fertilizer: Ensure the soil is rich and appropriate for shade plants. Use organic compost to enrich the soil and promote healthy plant growth.

Regular Maintenance: Keep the plants healthy by regular watering and pruning. Even shade-loving plants need care to thrive.

#2 Ingenious Storage Solutions

Often, these side areas become cluttered with miscellaneous items. However, you can turn chaos into order with smart, sleek storage solutions.

Consider installing compact shelving units or hidden compartments that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. This approach ensures that your outdoor space is tidy and functional, reflecting a modern, organised home.

Steps

Assess Your Needs: Determine what needs to be stored in this area. This could be gardening tools, outdoor cushions, or utility items.

Choose Weather-Resistant Materials: Opt for storage solutions made of materials that can withstand outdoor conditions, like stainless steel or treated wood.

Maximise Vertical Space: Use wall-mounted shelves or hanging systems to store items vertically, freeing up floor space.

#3 Artistic Elements: Adding Character to Your Space

Outdoor art isn't just for gardens and patios. Weather-resistant sculptures, murals, and decorative panels can transform a dull wall into a canvas of creativity.

This touch of artistry showcases your style and makes your outdoor space a topic of conversation and admiration.

Steps

Select Durable Art: Choose art pieces that endure outdoor conditions, such as rust-proof sculptures or all-weather murals.

Theme Consistency: Ensure the art complements your home's overall theme and style for a cohesive look.

Install Properly: Secure the art safely and correctly. This might mean reinforcing walls for heavy items or ensuring murals are weather-sealed.

outdoor lighting

#4 Ambient Lighting: Crafting the Perfect Mood

Lighting can dramatically alter the feel of a space. Solar-powered lights or subtle LED strips can create a warm, inviting ambience, perfect for evenings outdoors.

This strategic use of lighting enhances your space's beauty and extends its usability into the night.

Steps

Use Solar Lights: Solar lights are a great eco-friendly and easy-to-install option for outdoor spaces.

Create Layers of Light: Combine different types of lighting like spotlights, fairy lights, and lanterns to add depth and warmth.

Focus on Key Features: Highlight essential elements like a beautiful plant or art piece with directional lighting.

#5 Serene Water Features

The soothing sound of water can turn any space into a tranquil retreat. Adding a small fountain or bird bath adds an element of serenity and attracts wildlife, creating a dynamic, ever-changing outdoor scene.

Steps

Choose the Right Size: Select a water feature that fits the scale of your space without overwhelming it.

Consider Maintenance: Opt for features that are easy to clean and maintain, especially if you're not experienced with outdoor water features.

Add Natural Elements: Surround the water feature with stones, plants, or wood to integrate it naturally into the space.

#6 Vertical Gardening: A Creative Twist

Limited ground space? No problem. Vertical gardening is an innovative solution that utilises wall space for growing plants.

From herbs to flowers, wall planters beautify your walls and bring fresh, organic elements to your cooking and lifestyle.

Steps

Select Suitable Plants: Choose plants that grow vertically, like climbing vines or certain herbs and flowers.

Invest in Quality Planters: Ensure your wall planters are durable and have proper drainage to keep plants healthy.

Plan for Watering: Set up an easy watering system like drip irrigation to ensure your vertical garden stays hydrated.

outdoor seating at home

#7 Creating Your Personal Retreat

Imagine having a private nook outside your door to unwind and relax.

Adding a small bench or hammock can transform this neglected area into a cozy spot for reading, meditating, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Steps

Comfortable Seating: Include a comfortable seating option, like a cushioned bench, hammock, or swing chair.

Personal Touches: Add elements that reflect your style, such as decorative cushions, outdoor rugs, or unique ornaments.

Privacy Features: Consider adding elements for privacy, such as lattice panels or tall plants, to create a sense of seclusion.

Prime Choices

Optimal Use of Lighting:
Good lighting is essential. It not only enhances the beauty of the space but also extends its usability into the evening. Consider using a mix of solar-powered or LED lights for an eco-friendly, maintenance-free option. Lighting can create ambience, highlight key features, and make the space inviting and functional after dark.

Incorporate Living Elements:
Adding greenery or a water feature can significantly enhance the aesthetic and atmosphere of the space. Shade-loving plants can bring life to areas with limited sunlight, while a small water feature, like a fountain or bird bath, adds a serene and calming element. These living elements contribute to a healthier, more vibrant environment.

Smart Storage Solutions:
Efficient use of storage is crucial. Clutter can quickly diminish the appeal of any space. Opt for weather-resistant, space-saving storage solutions that help keep the area organised and tidy. Vertical storage options, like wall-mounted shelves, can be particularly effective in maximising space.

Focusing on these three aspects can significantly transform a dead area into an attractive and functional part of your home.

Creative Home Additions

Mirrors:
Adding a mirror to your outdoor space can be a game-changer. Mirrors reflect light and scenery, making small or dark areas appear larger and brighter. They can also serve as an artistic feature, adding depth and intrigue to the space.

Multipurpose Furniture:
Furniture doubling as storage or easily folded and stowed away can be incredibly useful in small spaces. A bench that opens up to reveal storage space or collapsible furniture pieces is great for maintaining functionality without sacrificing space.

Hanging Decor:
Utilising the overhead space can add a unique charm to the area. Hanging decor, like wind chimes, a string of twinkling lights, or even a small hanging garden with succulents, can enhance the atmosphere without taking up valuable ground space.

These unconventional additions can provide practical solutions while also adding character and charm to your outdoor space, making it as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing.

FAQs

Q1: What are the best plants for shaded outdoor areas?

A1: Ferns, hostas, and ivy are excellent choices for low-light spaces.

Q2: How can I ensure my outdoor art lasts?

A2: Opt for weather-resistant materials and consider protective coatings.

Q3: Can I install lighting outdoors without extensive wiring?

A3: Yes, solar-powered lights are a great, easy-to-install option.

Q4: What are some space-saving storage ideas?

A4: Vertical shelving and hidden compartments work wonders in small areas.

Q5: How do I start a vertical garden?

A5: Wall planters are a great way to start. Choose plants that require similar light and water conditions.

Q6: Are water features expensive to maintain?

A6: It depends on the size and type, but many small features are surprisingly low maintenance.

Q7: How can I make my outdoor space more inviting?

A7: Soft furnishings, ambient lighting, and personal touches like a reading nook can create a welcoming atmosphere.

Conclusion

Transforming the neglected side of your home into a vibrant, functional space is more than a home improvement project; it's a lifestyle enhancement.

By following these seven steps, you not only elevate the aesthetics of your home but also create a space that enriches your daily life. Remember, your home reflects your personality and style – let it shine in every corner.

This article is brought to you by Fiori, where we believe in making every corner of your home come alive.

Explore our range of kitchen appliances, sinks, taps, home decor, outdoor furniture, and wall art to find the perfect match for your newly transformed space.