All of us need a getaway from time to time. Some of us hop on a jet or a train and escape to nature, relaxing on sunny beaches or hiking peaceful forest trails. But the reality is we can’t always escape in the literal sense. Time, work, children, and other responsibilities may keep us anchored at home; so how do we get away then? We took a look at some of the top getaway spots and compiled a few simple suggestions to bring the getaway to your own backyard, literally!
Get Away Inspired Gardens
Mountain Retreat
The wooded forests and snowy slopes are enticing but when you can’t go to the mountain, how do you bring the mountain to you? If you happen to have a large yard with trees, you’re already halfway there. If not, the best way to achieve that evergreen forest feel is through a few choice conifers. You can even get potted ones if you rent your space or paving prevents you from planting. The other key element is the heavy lumber often used in mountain cabins as well as dark slate often seen in northern architecture. Bringing raw wood into the garden in the form of log furniture or a dark wooden deck is one way to bring that element close to home. Tiling a single feature wall in slate, or even installing a fireplace will also help bring that cozy feeling into the special space.
Tropical Nest
Anyone who’s traveled to getaways on the equator will tell you that plant life is luscious and abundant! From the moist earth to the towering canopies of the jungle there is layer upon layer of different and interesting vegetation. The key to getting that tropical atmosphere is succeeding with these layers. Palm trees, bananas, and bamboo form the upper layers of foliage while below them you can plant things like ferns, hostas and elephant ears. Plants like bromeliads and wild ginger bring interesting leaf shapes, colors, and textures all of which combine for that heady, clustered tropical feel.
Tropical Nest
Beach Vibes
Who hasn’t dreamed of having a beach in their backyard? Or a little house by the sea? Even if you don’t have a swimming pool you can turn a small corner of your garden into a seaside getaway. If you don’t plan to utilize all your garden space for this be sure to build wooden retainer walls for the sand so that it doesn’t escape it’s designated spot. If you do have a pool be sure that there is a wide deck between it and the sand to avoid constant cleaning! Add a tiki bar and an outdoor shower and voila! This type of yard design may require ample effort although the results will be absolute bliss for the beach-loving clan.
Cozy Countryside
If a trip to the English countryside is what your heart desires then low stone walls, a box-hedge maze, roses, and herbs will transform your garden space into something from a fairytale. Consider a potager – a carefully laid out garden that often makes use of patterns and little pebble walkways. This also gives you the opportunity to grow your own fruits, vegetables and herbs for cooking and in the afternoons and evenings can become a little haven for a tea-time treat! The most appealing aspect of a cozy countryside garden is the ultimate natural vibrance it illuminates as these garden designs shy away from the all too common approach of modern gardens with harsh sharp edges and straight lines. Therefore these types of yard designs are perfect for low maintenance as well. You can also incorporate dainty patio furniture that showcases elegant fine floral patterns to maximize the countryside essence.
