Outdoor Design
When making changes to your front yard or backyard, be sure to consider what makes sense for your home and your location’s weather. If you live in a state that is warm only four months out of the year, an outdoor pool might not be a worthy investment (though an indoor one might be an option). For those in dry desert climates, you might want to avoid water-thirsty grass and opt for succulents, which require very little water yet still add beauty to your yard. And before splurging on a new wood porch, consider ipe wood decking, which will suffer less damage if you often have snow-packed winters. Although your location shouldn’t dictate your taste, it should be taken into consideration to avoid any unnecessary maintenance.
If you’re going to make changes outdoors, ensure that your yard gets as much use as possible by having it reflect both your and your family’s needs. For those who like to work in the yard more than swim, opt for a large garden instead of a swimming pool. And if you like to host barbecues in the summer, an oversize patio with plenty of outdoor seating and a top-of-the-line grill would be worth the splurge. Although you want to keep resale value in mind, you also want to make sure your family gets to enjoy the space, too.
In the end, don’t worry if large, expensive renovations are out of your reach; you can always add accessories for a cheaper yet still effective end result. A traditional concrete patio can quickly turn into an outdoor haven with the right patio furniture, lighting and outdoor throw pillows and accessories. To turn a traditional porch into an entertaining hub, invest in a fire pit, grill and hot tub. And if a pool isn’t an option, appease the kids with a fun playset and plenty of yard space.
More ideas at http://www.interior-idea.com/outdoor.html
* all Ref. from Houzz.com for great ideas Thanks !