Bustling Backyard

6 Secrets to Creating a Great Backyard

1. Identify your goals.
Consider requirements for play areas, cooking, relaxing and entertaining when allocating yard space. Remember that the closer an outdoor living space is to the house, the more use it will get.

2. Think about boundaries.
After parceling out space, determine which areas should flow into each other and which ones demand seclusion, such as a spa, garden nook or reading corner. Consider adding a low-growing hedge to separate boisterous play areas from quieter spots.

3. Keep hot tubs private.
Step them down from a patio or deck, and camouflage them with a hedge, lattice screen or ornamental fencing to create a sense of intimacy. Dividers add nighttime drama - picture candles flickering through the screen and steam rising above the barrier.

4. Take material cues from the home.
Carry similar materials into patios, structures, and pathways for a composition that seamlessly melds home and landscape.

5. Create an evolved landscape look for older homes.
Distribute a variety of complementary earthen-texture materials, such as cobblestone, concrete, brick and flagstone, from front yard to back.

6. Make small yards work hard and live large.
Include multiuse elements such as a fireplace, which provides seating on its hearth and display space on its mantel. A poolside fountain can become a backyard focal point, act as a retaining wall and provide a foundation for a flower border.