2
CONSTRUCT
AN EYE-
CATCHING
OUTDOOR
LIVING
SPACE
A step-by-step
guide to enjoying
the Alberta summer
(and spring, and fall)
in your own beautiful
backyard
designs to surround a pool, or rustic
paving stones for the patio, where
small plants can sprout up between
the spaces.
1. Begin with hardscaping
“If you want a deck or patio, hard-
scaping is where I’d start,” Watt says.
Measure the space you plan to use,
factoring in elements like pathways
and pergolas. Visit a local garden
centre, like Parkland, if you need
help; landscape architects can help
sketch out what suits your space.
Want a hot tub? Don’t forget electri-
cal and plumbing considerations.
2. Identify wants and needs
Once the hardscaping is planned,
figure out how much room is left.
Then start visualizing your dream
space. Says Watt: “I’d also look
at things like, do you need some
shade? Is there a view you want to
block or features you want to hide?”
3. Choose materials
There are many different styles of
stone to help set the tone for your
space. Consider modern, elegant
flagstones cut into intricate
4. Select furniture
“Think of furniture as a long-term
investment and buy the best you
can afford,” Watt says. Then con-
sider scale, just as you would
inside your home. Go for big,
brawny pieces in sprawling gardens.
Create an enviable entertaining
space with a full-sized table and
chairs. Or suspend swing-
style seats from a
sturdy tree to create
an intimate sanctuary.
AMA Extra
Remember, you’re out-
side, so be playful!
Shop the AMA
Rewards online
store and earn
5. Set the mood
4% in reward
dollars on Home
“Outdoor lighting is
Depot purchases,
a huge trend,” Watt
and 5% in reward
dollars from
notes. “Especially
Hudson’s Bay.
anything solar pow-
AMARewards.ca/
Save
ered.” Go for statement
pieces (like decorative
garden stakes) that can
be your focal point, or use more
subtle lights to illuminate a path-
way. Sculptures—especially metal
ones—and carved concrete “rocks”
are also on-trend. Self-contained
water features add to the visual
and aural ambience. »
AMA InsIder
summer 2017
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