Here in the Sarasota area, we are fortunate to be able to live so much of our lives outdoors. While residents in other parts of the country spend up to 6 months indoors hiding from the elements, the winter months are some of our most glorious.
With the arrival of lower heat and humidity, residents from Venice to Longboat Key throw open their doors, turn off their air conditioners, and revel in this time of year. Therefore having a functional and inviting outdoor living space should be a priority for all area homeowners.
Ideas for Memorable Outdoor Living Spaces
If you are building a new custom home, you can get caught up in ceiling heights, and great room dimensions, and the latest luxury finishes – and rightfully so! But don’t forget to leave some budget for the outdoor living space. Correctly designed and planned, this area can become an extension of your home, giving you more square footage of usable space, and making your home truly special.
For decades, we have concentrated on larger lanais, and more expansive pool areas. There is no denying that these features add inherent value to a home, giving you a private sanctuary during summer months. But other types of functional areas will allow you to utilize your outdoor space even when the weather is a bit too cool for swimming. Here are just a few ideas to spark your imagination.
Firepit/Seating Area: A January night can get a little cool, but nothing a blanket and a fire can’t handle! Create a firepit, install a traditional fireplace on the lanai, or add a chimenea to make things cozy. The key to whatever you choose is adding a comfortable seating area, be it cushioned benches, a porch swing, or hammock. While many Floridians stay indoors on chilly night, you can have family and friends gathered around a roaring fire. Who needs a TV when your lanai offers the perfect way to bring the family together?
Gazebo/Trellis: Create a private oasis to read, write, or just contemplate how good life is. Build a gazebo and surround with a colorful butterfly garden to attract the delicate visitors (and help to sustain the environment). Perhaps a pergola or trellis makes more sense for your yard space-wise. Simply erect the structure and plant climbing vines and tropical flowers to intertwine. All of these ideas will provide shade from the sun no matter the season, and encourage the growth of a beautiful yard. Place your dining set underneath for a unique and inviting outdoor meal experience.
Dock or Swing: If you have a water feature in your backyard, such as a river, lake or creek, build a sturdy dock with comfortable lounge chairs or fishing gear – whatever reflects your lifestyle! Install low lighting, a mini-fridge for drinks, and a partial roof or sunshade – and you have a year round refuge to enjoy nature and make the best use of your entire property. If enough of the dock is covered, you can add a full couch and loveseat – just install sliding glass to keep out the weather. Don’t want to commit to a luxury dock amenity? Hang a traditional porch swing from the branches of a nearby tree, and relax the old Florida way.
Botanical Gardens: If you have a large property and a love for gardening, create individual spaces in your yard by utilizing different types of native plants and trees. Be sure to add comfortable seating in each individual section, shaded if possible – and connect with winding paths of gravel, stepping stones or pavers. Add fountains, statuaries, or bird feeders to make your backyard a true respite from the world.
At Lindahl Construction, we understand that your perfect home is the one you envision. We look forward to helping you building with you in 2020 – from new home construction to striking renovations, we are the Longboat Key area experts to call.