Recently, I was asked to share what I consider to be my absolute dream backyard. What would it look like? What elements would be the most important to have? What even constitutes dreamy?! As I plan my own backyard and patio revamp, I definitely have a vision for what I’d love to see in my outdoor space. Here is a list of what I consider to be the most important elements in achieving that dreamy outdoor oasis:
My dream backyard connects the inside to the outside – I love the idea of opening french doors or a large sliding glass panel to reveal this perfect oasis. I feel that outdoor spaces get much more use when they are easily seen and accessible. Plus, how insanely amazing is it to completely open up your living room or kitchen to the outdoors!? So refreshing and modern to boot! 
My dream backyard has defined spaces – For me, it is so important to define each space. In my perfect backyard scenario, I would have a dining area, a place for an outdoor bar or grilling spot, a sitting or relaxing area, a playful place (or just a great spot to put down a blanket for a picnic), and maybe even a specific reading nook. Dreamy means defined in this designer’s head!
My dream backyard has gorgeous lighting – The more string lights the better!! Add in some perfectly placed candles too and you’ve got the best kind of ambiance. Lighting is so vital when it comes to creating a cozy, evening retreat in my backyard. There’s really nothing more dreamy than soft, romantic lighting, is there?
My dream backyard has minimal colour but lots of texture – I’m a big fan of limiting your colour palette, especially when it comes to the outdoors. I prefer to let mother nature shine. So my dream backyard would have blacks, whites, greys and wood tones to create a neutral palette. And instead of colour, I’d opt to play more with texture – a metal coffee table, wicker chairs, rope coiled poufs, an outdoor area rug, etc. 
My dream backyard has a variety of plants – I’m still learning how to choose the right plants for the right spaces/locations outside but the more I learn, the more I’m wanting lots of plants in my backyard space. My dream backyard would even include some homegrown herbs and vegetables, so all I have to do when I’m cooking is walk outside and snip some mint or basil…
My dream backyard has the right amount of details and accents – The devil is in the details right?! My ideal space would have additional character through accents like lanterns, planters, candles, pillows, throws, etc. All kept within my neutral palette, of course! And I would also love to have a great space to store and organize all these extra details when the colder season hits. Great storage is vital so I’d search for benches and coffee tables that double as containers for cushions…maybe even a small garden shed to contain all those extras!
Now that I’m inspired by all this dream backyard talk, I’m even more excited to see my own space come together. Stay tuned!!