Creating the Complete Backyard

Homeowners are now looking beyond the pool to create a backyard environment by adding other elements. There is a growing trend in outdoor living, cooking, & entertaining. Today's backyard possibilities are virtually endless and can include many features, depending on the size of the backyard and the interests of the homeowner. Backyards have really become an extension of the home. Following are a few of the features that are being implemented into today's backyard.

Landscaping
Creative landscaping and a variety of plants can dress up any backyard and can make the "ordinary" backyard a thing of beauty. Landscaping can be installed fairly inexpensively and is probably one of the best values in creating the ultimate backyard.

Water Features
Although there are many beautiful backyards that exist without water features, the visual therapy that water can bring to a backyard is difficult to surpass. There are numerous water feature options (swimming pools, hot tubs, waterfalls, or mist systems) that are available depending on the desired look.

Decking
Decking areas are very important, especially if the backyard is used for entertaining. Decking options include wood, brick, stone, or concrete.

Cooking
The barbecue grill has long been the focal point of backyard living, but outdoor cooking has come a long way in the past decade. While portable barbecue grills are still extremely popular, complete outdoor kitchens are increasing in popularity and many times include a grill, sink, and refrigerator.

Heat
Obviously warm weather is not a year-round proposition in our area, but with the use of the proper heating method it can be. Outdoor fireplaces, firepits, chimineas, and even outdoor gas heaters allow the ultimate backyard to be used on a year-round basis.

Furniture
Most designers usually suggest multiple seating areas in the backyard. It is important to consider furniture for outdoor dining and loungers for sunbathing.

Shelter
Backyard shelters have increased in popularity and again, there are many options. From a simple umbrella or awning, to a safari-style thatch hut, to a gazebo, or something even as elaborate as a pool house complete with a sports bar themed game room.

Lighting Lighting allows you to get more enjoyment out of your ultimate backyard by extending the hours of enjoyment. There are many lighting options to consider such as landscape lighting, path lighting, water feature lighting, and overhead lighting.

Special interests
The options that can be used for the ultimate backyard are virtually endless. Following are some examples of features that have been used in creating the ultimate backyard.

outdoor sound systems	wet bar
putting green	outdoor televisions
tennis court	putting green
billiard area	children's play area

One of the designers at Gohlke Pools will take these elements into consideration when designing the correct swimming pool for the needs of your family.