Here in Sarasota, we love the outdoors – and designing a home here means incorporating amazing backyard features that allow us to relax and entertain in style. Not only can a well-landscaped and creatively designed property enhance curb appeal, but it can add significantly to your property value. Nationally, homes gain anywhere from 5.5% to 12.7% increase in price on average over those with no emphasis on landscaping or outdoor property features. In this article, we take a look at the perfect finishing touches to your luxury home build and property.

  1. Fire Pits are Entertaining Must-Haves: One of the fastest ways to transform your backyard is to install a fire pit or an outdoor fireplace. Fire features create a romantic ambiance and allow for lazy evening gatherings at any time of year.
  2. Gazebos or Pavilions Provide the Shade: during the summer months, it can be difficult to enjoy the outdoors without ample shade. Gazebos and pavilions offer an attractive focal point for your yard while providing a cooler place to eat, gather or read. These features are also wonderful for special occasions and can be surrounded by trees, flowers, or water features to really make them a special oasis.
  3. Designing Distinct Areas Adds Interest: If you have a large backyard, consider breaking up the yard into distinct areas with different functions. You may install a pond, create a reading nook under a large tree, or allow wildflowers to grow into a butterfly garden. Consider adding flagstone pavers between areas for a classic garden feel. Even if you only have a lanai or deck, it is possible to break it up into several different spaces. For example, you may have your fire pit and camp chairs in one section, a dining table in another section, and another section with comfortable seating surrounded by flower boxes.
  4. Water Features Inspire Serenity: A water feature can be a gorgeous addition to any property and can make your landscaping truly special. Water – and water sounds – are known to provide a sense of tranquility and peace and can transform the whole ambiance of the yard. A water feature can be as simple as a birdbath or stone fountain or maybe a koi pond or waterfall. In addition to being soothing, water will also attract wildlife and birds to your yard.
  5. Going Native With Plants: Tropical and sub-tropical plants are a vital part of any Floridian landscaping design, but they need to be selected carefully. Homeowners should always prioritize choosing native plants for several reasons. They are already adapted to the local soil conditions and climate, and they require fewer pesticides, fertilizers, and water than non-native plants. If you are looking for a beautiful yard with less maintenance, choosing native plants and working with the natural environment is the best strategy.
  6. Get Illuminated! One of the most underrated ways to upgrade your backyard is by concentrating on the lighting. Lighting plays many roles in backyard design, from emphasizing the focal points of your home’s architectural features to safety. Selecting the right kinds of lighting will accentuate landscape features that would otherwise not be visible in the dark and makes entertaining in the evening a lot easier. Illumination is also vital for yard design because it will provide the home and yard additional security. It makes it harder for potential criminals to stay hidden and will deter them from targeting your home – especially if a floodlight shines on them when they approach the home.

When JTL Studios designs your custom Sarasota home, we will also help you to create the perfect yard that will complement your architectural choices. If you are ready to begin the process of bringing your vision to life, call the team at JTL Studios today. (Click here to view our recent projects)