Flowers, stone, cedar, teak, plants, grill or no grill, there are so many decisions one has to make when creating an outdoor space. The easiest way to start is to look at the process step by step. First you need to decide what the space will be used for, and then decide how much money you are willing to spend on the space. Next you should measure your space to know how much furniture, plants and accessories you will be able to use, and lastly go shopping for all of your fun new items.

The first step to creating a great outdoor space is to decide what kind of space you want to create. Do you need an outdoor play area for your children, or would you rather have a nice romantic spot for you and your spouse? Maybe you want to host fantastic parties in your backyard for all of your friends and neighbors. Another option is to create multiple spaces in your backyard, keeping a place for your children to play as well as a mature and sophisticated area for the adults. Your options are endless! Use your current blank canvas to create a space you have always dreamed of having. However, be sure to sit down and create a workable budget before you begin working on your project. A simple backyard retreat is much better than a half-built garden oasis that cannot be completed because of money restraints.

After you have decided what the space will be used for and have a firm budget in place, it is important to measure your space and lay out a plan of action. Just like decorating a room, if you put too much in your outdoor space it can end up looking cluttered and messy. The best idea is to measure and then make a “floor plan”. This way you are able to see how much furniture and accessories your space can handle, and how big your outdoor furniture can be without looking like you have too much. Once your floor plan is in place, you may decide that you do not have room for the fire pit, swing set, and water feature. Having a specific plan of action in place will make shopping for your furniture and accessories much easier.

Another important thing to consider when you are creating an outdoor space is to look at where the sun shines in your yard. Make sure to consult with your neighborhood gardener or home improvement store on what plants should be planted in the sun, or part sun, and what plants need to be completely in the shade. You should also consider planting shrubs and trees that grow naturally in your area. Not only will these plants be easier to grow and maintain they are also environmentally smarter because they typically require less fertilizer and water to look great.

When placing your outdoor furniture be sure to consider your view. If you are lucky enough to have a view of the mountains or ocean, be sure your guests can enjoy the beauty. However, maybe you live in a neighborhood that is jammed packed with homes and the best view is of your own house! Just think about what area of your backyard that you will want to look at when sitting in your outdoor space and your guests are sure to enjoy the same view.

The last and most fun part of this adventure is shopping! We will again reiterate the need to have a budget and really stick to it. It is easy to get carried away when you are browsing the internet or walking through your local home improvement store. Your outdoor space does not need to include every little cool gadget, or the most expensive furniture. Decide on materials, plants and flowers, and accessories before you go shopping to curb impulse buys and help you stick to your original plans. However, don’t be afraid to shop around to a few locations before bringing home your new belongings. A little bargain hunting may pay off in a big way. If you find yourself on a super-tight budget, you may even wish to put off buying your new outdoor furniture until the end of the summer season. The start of fall often means your can find great deals at rock bottom prices.

However you decide to decorate your outdoor space, remember the important key elements of function, style, and budget. Following these simple tips will help you create a glorious outdoor space.