HEARTH & HOME
An extensive backyard design
by Mosby Building Arts
Pools
Nothing conveys relaxation better than the image of someone
floating lazily in crystal blue water, drink in hand, seemingly without
a care in the world. Pools have long been recognized as luxury home
additions - with good reason. A watery getaway in your own backyard
has plenty of benefits beyond simply looking pretty. For example, a
family with children may struggle to get them to play outside - until
they add a pool! Are you working a lot, and don’t have time for a
full-blown vacation? A backyard pool and coinciding patio and deck
space can serve as a staycation for the overworked executive or stay-
at-home mom.
Pools are also amazing for personal health. Exercise becomes much
easier to fit in when you can jump into an aquatic workout in your own
yard. The health benefits are mental, as well as physical. Whether you
are calmly floating or counting swim strokes, water activity increases
mindfulness, and can help achieve a meditative state. To be perfectly on-
trend, consider saltwater instead of chlorinated water, an infinity entry
rather than stairs or a water feature like a cascade waterfall.
She Sheds
For years, men have had their man caves, and now, women have
countered with their own space in the yard, and these sheds don’t
skimp on luxury. An Etsy store owner may use it as her own personal
jewelry studio, or a quilter may head out to create in a quiet space
without her spouse or children. But more and more, women are
building she sheds for relaxation. Glittery chandeliers, shiplap and
trendy decor set the scene as women cozy up with books and wine
on a comfy couch that might be too “pretty” for the living room, but is
just right for a personal, feminine leisure area. Lisa Six from Minnesota
Mosby Building Arts' She
Sheds provide private space
built her she shed to house her Hoosier cabinet, an antique cupboard
that held her potting supplies. Eventually, she wanted something
prettier, so she and her husband built a shed with barnwood walls,
vintage tin ceilings, wainscoting and a chandelier. She loves hosting
friends for coffee or wine-filled happy hours in her beautiful space,
while surrounded by her gardens.
A luxurious and functional space doesn’t always have to be within
a home’s four walls. Bring the inside out, and see what beauty you can
create in your own backyard.
Bodnar is a real estate investor and home renovator, and the owner of RAD
Real Estate in St. Louis. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or via
email at [email protected].
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