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With the summer season in full swing, homeowners are itching to get outside and bask in the warm temperatures and fresh air. To preserve this feeling of excitement, it’s important to have access to a comfortable outdoor space that suits relaxation as well as socializing with guests.

The good news is that by tackling a few maintenance tasks and investing in some new features, homeowners can create an outdoor atmosphere that makes every day feel like a vacation.

Pergolas may come in a variety of styles and sizes, but they share the same primary purpose: to protect homeowners from the harsh elements. This could come in the form of shelter amid a spring rain shower or a layer of protection to block out the sun’s harsh rays in the summertime. So whether you’re reading a book or hosting a family dinner outside, your plans can continue without interruption.

While pergolas give homeowners more opportunities to enjoy their outdoor living area, it is only one of many purposes these landscape features serve. Here’s a look at a few other benefits.

A pool is a natural focal point in many Northeast Ohio backyards. But like a frame that draws attention to an already beautiful photo, the landscape around a pool can further accentuate it.

When it comes to how to achieve this effect, these three backyard pool landscaping ideas can do the trick.

When homeowners invest in outdoor kitchens, they’re not only thinking about the enjoyment they’ll get from its use, but also what it means for the value of their home. The good news is that outdoor kitchens add significant value to your outdoor experience and the property as a whole.

When it comes to the factors that potential buyers look for in a home, sustainability has steadily climbed the ranks. Per the 2018 National Association of REALTORS® Sustainability Resource Guide, 61% of surveyed realtors noted their clients (of all age groups) want more sustainable features in homes to save on utility bills, reduce energy and water consumption, and minimize toxins in the air.

While innovation on the interior of the home can support these efforts — from smart thermostats to energy-efficient appliances — the same goes for the exterior. To transform your outdoor area into a more sustainable landscape, consider investing in any (or all!) of these features.

Regular time outside is beneficial to dogs for a variety of reasons. It’s a chance for them to release energy, get exercise, take in fresh air and keep their mind occupied. So it’s no wonder when dogs hear the words “walk” or “outside”, they tend to bolt for the door!

Getting outside with your pet, however, doesn’t have to mean heading to the nearest park. Pet-friendly backyard ideas can help turn your outdoor space into the perfect playground for your dog(s) — no matter the size, age or breed.

Do more with less. It’s a theme we see in many facets of life — from the office to the home, individuals want to find ways to minimize manual tasks and free up more time in their day.

This mindset helps explain the shift toward low-maintenance landscape design. Homeowners want their yard to make the right impression, but in the face of hectic schedules, they don’t want to spend a ton of time on its upkeep. They’d rather spend that time enjoying their outdoor space.

Here are some ideas on how to make a front yard landscape design look beautiful without hours of care.

Just as clutter can accumulate inside your home, the same can be said for your landscape. Whether it’s toys for your children and pets or a sea of lawn care tools, clutter can be a nuisance to any backyard, especially those where there is already limited space.

The good news is there are a lot of ways homeowners can weave storage into their outdoor area without taking up too much space or competing with other elements in the landscape.

Backyard outdoor kitchens offer plenty of flexibility in design, but there are a few elements that are beneficial to incorporate into any project. Alongside the main feature (the grill), each item will enhance the convenience of the space and help you get the most from your investment.

As you think about your design for a backyard outdoor kitchen, consider these four must-haves.

Have you ever been in a conversation with a landscape professional where they mention the term “hardscape”? If so, you may have had the same thought that many homeowners do. What does hardscape mean?