Tag Archives: outdoor living

How to Create a Relaxing Backyard Oasis

Caught in our busy lives, it can be difficult to find the time or place around our homes to simply relax and recharge. But this “oasis” at home is more attainable than you think, and it could be hiding right in your backyard!

Your yard may seem like nothing special now, but the possibilities are practically limitless.This can sometimes feel overwhelming to homeowners, and that’s where our decades of experience help — you don’t have to imagine all the possibilities or know what you want — we’ll help figure that out.

Edward Gosman & Associates is the trusted choice for landscape improvement projects throughout Hampton Roads. Here are a few of the ways we have helped our clients find more peace and relaxation in their outdoor spaces.

  1. Incorporate water features.  For centuries, cultures around the world have used flowing water for its calming effects. A small pond, a fountain, a swimming pool or hot tub can give your backyard a spa-like feel. backyard pond water feature

  2. Invest in comfortable seating. Outdoor seating doesn’t mean you need to compromise comfort.  There are plenty of options for chairs, benches, and chaise lounges with cushions to match your style, while also being cozy and weatherproof! Add a small café table and you have the perfect spot for a cup of coffee or glass of wine.

  3. Take the inside outdoors. One of the most functional ways to create an outdoor living space is by bringing elements of the kitchen or living room outside.  Custom designed fire pits are growing in popularity for a reason – they allow families and groups of friends to gather and have fun, no matter the season!dscn1817

  4. Light up the night. When the sun goes down, you don’t need to go indoors. There are all kinds of varieties of outdoor lighting options that can be added to your landscape. From string lighting, automated or solar-powered lights, ceiling fixtures, spotlights and so much more, we’re happy to help you decide the best ways to add safety and ambiance to your yard.

Think of your patio or backyard as an extension of your indoor spaces, rather than areas completely separate from the home. If you’re gathering with the family, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying some quiet time to read or rest, there is nothing quite as relaxing as fresh air and the sounds of nature. By keeping the above list in mind, you’l10371369_10152246400741194_6491068410904759942_nl always have a retreat available to you by simply stepping outside!

If you’re ready to begin making your yard your own personal oasis, give our expert team a call for a free landscape design estimate: (757) 421-2500

Summer’s Almost Over But Outdoor Living is Just Getting Started!

Before we know it, summer will be winding down and crisp fall weather will grace us with brightly colored leaves and shorter days. For those of us wdscn4494ho have been cooped up inside to stay out of the August heat and humidity, you may be relieved to know the cooler temperatures are on the way!

Your outdoor spaces do so much more than simply look good. They bring your family together. They offer the perfect sanctuary for a place to unwind after a long day. They are where you create memories with your loved ones to last a lifetime.

When you design your outdoor spaces with more than just spring and summer in mind, you extend the possibilities to relax, host and enjoy being outside.

Gather Around a Fire Pit

Backyard fire pits have become a staple of many homes. These features can be artfully constructed to match the look and feel of the rest of your landscape, using stone, brick or a variety of other materials. Edward Gosman & Associates specializes in the design and construction of customized fire pits that will become everyone’s favorite place to hang out! There is nothing quite like gathering around a fire pit on a brisk fall evening with your favorite people.

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Add Some Light

Bring warmth, security and ambiance to your yard by adding strategically placed lighting elements. Lighting gives you the ability to highlight your favorite parts of your outdoor design, from water features, flags, ornaments or foliage. Outdoor lighting also helps to keep your home secure when you return home after dark once the days start to get shorter.

Fall Weather is More Mild

People often think of summer as the best time to enjoy their patios and outdoor spaces, but sometimes it may simply be too hot to enjoy our yards during the summer. This is why your outdoor projects can reallydsc04292 shine in the autumn months; you can comfortably enjoy relaxing or hosting guests even in t
he middle of the day, and carry the fun into the evening with fire pits and outdoor seating.

 

Take advantage of our moderate coastal climate and soak up the opportunity to enjoy being outdoors year-round with the proper outdoor arrangement! Start those outdoor living projects now to extend the functional use of your yard long after the summer ends!

Whether you have a specific upgrade in mind, or want some direction for a full landscape overhaul, give Edward Gosman & Associates a call and we will be happy to assist you: (757) 421-2500