Jill Schultz’s Arizona backyard underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, evolving from a barren expanse with a mere layer of gravel and scattered cacti into a vibrant outdoor haven. Struggling with the challenges of dust and an old RV gate exposing the yard to a busy street, the space demanded a thoughtful makeover. Jill envisioned an extension of their recently renovated Mid-century Modern home, yearning for a captivating outdoor retreat.
Planning the Vision: An Online Consultation and Professional Expertise
Teaming up with her husband, Tim, Jill aspired to create an inviting space conducive to both personal relaxation and hosting guests when renting out their home. Yearning for a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, the couple sought inspiration from an online landscaping service, Yardzen, and enlisted the assistance of professionals. The challenge lay in determining the optimal utilization of the vast space, prompting them to contemplate various possibilities.
Designing Distinct Zones: Dining, Lounging, and a Cooling Pool
The resulting layout featured distinct zones, strategically balancing functionality and aesthetics. An outdoor dining area, adorned with a spacious, shady umbrella, occupied one side of the house. Large square pavers and comfortable lounge chairs found their place beneath the expansive Mesquite tree. The crowning jewel, a central pool, not only enhanced visual appeal but also provided respite during the scorching Southwestern summers.
The Gravel Quandary: A Lesson in Attention to Detail
Jill highlights the significance of ground cover decisions, particularly the pivotal role of gravel. Underestimating the nuances of gravel options, they found the chosen color to be significantly darker than anticipated. Despite this hiccup, Jill adopted a pragmatic outlook, acknowledging the ease of replacing gravel compared to more intricate elements. The gravel, artificial turf, and budget-friendly concrete pavers emerged as judicious selections, harmonizing with Arizona’s arid climate.
Smart Landscaping: Patience and Budget-Wise Choices
Opting for artificial turf, gravel, and pavers proved not only environmentally conscious but also budget-friendly for the arid Arizona setting. Jill emphasizes the value of selecting smaller, cost-effective plants initially, anticipating their growth over time. The strategic placement of furniture, lounge chairs, and umbrellas served to break the expanse, preventing the yard from feeling overwhelmingly vast.
Lessons in Patience: Crafting a Timeless Outdoor Escape
Jill and Tim’s yard transformation stands as a testament to the virtues of patience and meticulous planning. Their journey, akin to other outdoor space renovations featured over the years, underscores the enduring rewards of deliberate planning and planting. By investing time and effort now, outdoor DIY enthusiasts can relish the fruits of their labor across numerous seasons, turning their outdoor dreams into a perennial reality.
