BACKYARD EXPERIENCE
Elevate the backyard experience BY M.C.
C hances are no one wants to Despite all the upheaval it brought to so many people’s lives, there was at least one silver lining to the pandemic: a newfound appreciation for backyards and other outdoor living areas. Back in 2021, OnePoll, on behalf of the landscaping company TruGreen, found survey participants reported spending 14 hours outside every week, which marked a three-hour increase than before the pandemic hit. Outdoor spaces like patios, decks, replicate the side effects of the global pandemic anytime soon. yards and front porches remain popular places for homeowners and their loved ones to congregate. Various studies have shown that those who spend more time outside in nature have lower levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Being outside is strongly associated with im- proved mental and physical health. Homeowners who want to maximize the potential of their outdoor spaces can look to these ideas to take backyards up a notch or two.
ESTABLISH A GATHERING SPOT A well-designed yard has one or more dedicated gathering spots, particularly areas that enable comfort underfoot. Homeowners can consider hardscape that enables individuals to spend time outdoors without standing in soggy or buggy situations. Whether outdoor areas include traditional decks, platform decks, concrete patios, paver patios or areas separated from the lawn with pea gravel or another type of rock, home- owners can make the yard more useable through these spaces. INVEST IN AN OUTDOOR COOKING AREA Major components of backyard enter- taining focus on grilling, smoking and even making pizzas in an outdoor brick oven. Outdoor kitchens can increase the convenience of prepping, cooking and serving food outdoors. Grills and other cooking gear can be built into weath- er-resistant counters and cabinetry.
INSTALL A PERGOLA A pergola or another structure is the perfect way to add privacy to a gathering spot while also creating more shade and weather protection when Mother Nature does not want to cooperate. THINK BEYOND THE SUMMER SEASON When making backyard improvements, homeowners can incorporate ideas that make the yard more functional during different seasons. For example, a fire pit or outdoor fireplace can be a spot for making summer s’mores or sipping mulled cider in the fall. An enclosed three-season room offers the opportunity to see nature and enjoy it without bearing the full brunt of chilly temperatures. Homeowners can enhance the func- tionality and appeal of their backyards in many ways, so it’s time to get creative.
SAVOUR MANITOBA | SPRING 2026 | 45
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