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Outdoor Living
Design Videos
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Before you put pen to paper and beginning planning an outdoor room, be sure to watch this series of videos from award-winning landscape designer Scott Cohen. He'll show you how to use decorative concrete to design and build spectacular outdoor living spaces. | |
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Greetings!
 Concrete offers endless possibilities for creating spectacular outdoor living environments. But with so many options, it's essential to establish some parameters that meet your clients' goals and budget requirements. You also need to consider important basics that your clients may overlook, like good traffic flow, the architectural style of the home, space requirements, providing for privacy, and the placement of trees and other landscape plantings. To avoid some common mistakes in outdoor room design and to create a functional, comfortable space that takes full advantage of everything decorative concrete has to offer, pay attention to these do's and don'ts.
Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
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DESIGN DON'TS
DON'T start without a plan. Determine the size and layout of the outdoor space, and create zones to separate various activities, such as cooking, conversation and relaxation. When situating an outdoor room, also consider the natural elements, such as prevailing winds and sun exposure. Read more about dimensions for outdoor rooms.
 DON'T be one-dimensional. The most appealing and functional outdoor rooms take advantage of terracing and steps, which can help maximize a small space, create visual drama, and provide separate levels for various activities.
DON'T forget to add greenery to provide balance and shading for your concrete hardscape. Trees are the best option for providing natural shade, but they can take years to mature. Another option is to install a vine-covered pergola. See these tips for using greenery effectively.
 DON'T assume that bigger is always better, especially if you have a small space to work with and your client is on a tight budget. A small concrete patio can still make a big impact, and more elements can be added later, as the budget allows.
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DESIGN DO'S
DO complement the home's architectural style. Choose a hardscaping design scheme that harmonizes with the home and landscape and echoes the design of indoor rooms. See these ideas for complementing various home styles.
 DO improve traffic flow by installing attractive concrete paths and walkways that guide people throughout the space and lead to various zones and focal points. For great walkway and garden path ideas, watch this video from designer Scott Cohen.
DO create a room with a view by orienting seating areas to overlook flowerbeds, water features and other attractive scenery. Get tips for proper orientation and layout.
 DO add concrete statuary and other architectural accents, such as fountains, garden bridges, and bird baths. These pieces will help to balance the lush floral beauty of a garden, and provide structure, contrast and decorative interest -- even after the blooms fade.
DO get help pulling it all together. Work with a landscaping professional for guidance in planning an outdoor room that matches the homeowner's budget, aesthetic, and functional requirements. |
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