When your home has views, you want to take maximum advantage of them from your outdoor living spaces. Here are 7 landscape design ideas for properties with a view in Lake Forest and Wilmette, IL, areas to inspire your next outdoor remodel!
Related: How The Pros Pick Patio Pavers To Suit A Desired Design In Wilmette, IL
Getting There
A destination walkway creates the feeling that you’re headed somewhere special. If your patio is positioned to take advantage of the view, make the walk to the patio (usually from the driveway) a magical experience. Meandering paths in brick, flagstone, bluestone, or granite give the sense that something interesting is around the bend, but they don’t hurry there: you arrive with a sense of relaxed anticipation. At night, path lighting can be used to create a romantic atmosphere as well as safety.
Frame the View
A view really takes center stage when it’s artfully framed with trees, a pergola, or even a couple of masonry pillars topped with fire bowls. Keep the height of your framing elements in proportion to the surroundings - so that they don’t stick out and become focal points, but rather bring attention to the view.
Living Spaces: Seating
Position your seating areas to take full advantage of the view. Instead of a fireplace, opt for a low fire pit with seating facing the view. Position lounge chairs at the outer (view) edge of the patio and put conversational seating areas closer to the home since you’ll be engaged with guests instead of the view.
Living Spaces: Cooking and Dining
Don’t block the view with an outdoor kitchen. These can be located on the non-view side of the patio. Position the bar end of an outdoor kitchen or grill station so that guests can enjoy the view - but don’t forget the cook! Putting the cooking area at an angle lets the cook gather inspiration from the view as well, while still interacting with guests.
If you want to add shade to your seating, cooking or dining areas, use a pergola rather than a pavilion or other solid-roofed structure. A pergola is a more airy structure. It can be used to frame the view as well as offering shade.
If possible, situate a dining table with the narrow end toward the view - so that everyone can glance sideways and enjoy it. Placing the wide side of table “against” the view deprives half of your guests from nature’s splendor!
Living Spaces: Relaxing
Sometimes, enjoying a patio with a view is all about “being” and not “doing.” A masonry-surrounded reflecting pool with a seat wall adds a sense of spaciousness and serenity to the space. You could also incorporate a beautiful backdrop in the form of a water feature.
An infinity pool positioned at the edge of the patio creates an incredible luxury vibe. If you don’t want a full pool, a cocktail pool (dipping pool) or hot tub can serve the same purpose: a soak with a view.
Privacy
Having a “big” view can sometimes make you feel too exposed. Make your outdoor living space feel more intimate with privacy fencing or a masonry water feature that can double as a privacy wall. Living walls, such as cypress, also offer privacy while greening up your space.
Colors
Finally, use patio colors that don’t detract from the view. Keep the colors mid-toned and neutral so that they’re not too bright or too dark - and so your attention remains on the main attraction.
Related: What Are The Priorities Of Good Lawn Care Service This Time Of Year In Lake Forest, Il?
