Spring is the perfect time to start getting your backyard ready for hosting summer gatherings. For many Adirondack homeowners, outdoor living includes outdoor recreation adventures on local trails and lakes, as well as experiences on and within their own properties. Long summer evenings and cool mountain air make for magical summer gatherings that start as afternoon barbecues and lead into nights of stargazing and telling stories around the fire.
Whether you are hosting friends and family or just want to highlight some of your property’s best features, preparing and maintaining outdoor living spaces makes summer much more enjoyable. Here are some tips for homeowners to best prepare their property for effortless entertaining and add some value along the way.
7 Essential Tips for Getting Your Backyard Ready for Adirondack Gatherings
1. Embrace the Natural Setting
One of the greatest aspects of owning property in the Adirondacks is the landscape that serves as setting and backdrop for outdoor living spaces. One or more characteristics like mature trees, stone outcroppings, wooded privacy and lake views are commonly held by many Adirondack properties of all sizes. Creating unique outdoor spaces that feel one with nature is easy with these types of property features.
Adding native plants, natural stone walkways and rustic wood elements creates a seamless transition connecting your home to Adirondack natural beauty. With an authentic feel, these property characteristics attract guests as well as buyers to the region.
2. Create Defined Gathering Areas
If your property does not already have defined gathering areas, now is the time to start planning some as you are getting your backyard ready for summer. When it comes to making outdoor spaces feel more inviting, everything should feel intentional. Having a plan forward will help build these areas and create the atmosphere you are striving for. If you plan to build or add to your backyard, consider creating zones for different activities:
- Dining Areas – Consider first where the best placement is when planning for a dining area in your backyard. Many Adirondack outdoor dining areas are found on patios or decks that are close to the kitchen or grill area. With this in mind, make sure your chosen dining area has sturdy ground as well as tables for group meals. Additionally, depending on the property, you may want to add a small dining space to a screened area so you can enjoy a bug-free meal during the warmer months.
- Lounge Spaces – Whether you are lakeside or in wooded privacy, creating lounge spaces in your backyard provides amazing opportunity to take in nature and enjoy the weather. Many homeowners choose Adirondack chairs or cushioned seating around a fire pit as a highlighted lounge space.
- Quiet Corners – Another type of area is a quiet corner to enjoy morning coffee, evening cocktails or your favorite read with peaceful quiet and serenity.
These defined spaces make entertaining feel effortless, allow guests to naturally settle in, and provide unique spaces for you to better enjoy your own property.
3. Fire Features Are a Must
Sitting by the fire during cool Adirondack nights is a big part of the lifestyle for many Adirondackers. A fire pit or outdoor fireplace not only provides warmth, but years of memories and bonding over stories of Adirondack adventure. Additionally, it becomes a focal point of your yard that can extend the entertaining season well into fall and even winter for some. From a real estate perspective, fire features consistently stand out in listings and photos. Potential buyers can imagine themselves gathered around the fire before they even arrive at a showing.
Bonus Tip: Make sure any outdoor style spaces that are under cover are also prepared and featured. Properties with covered or screened porches may also offer gas or wood burning fireplaces to help extend the seasons or allow fires to be enjoyed if the weather or bugs are unfavorable.
4. Outdoor Lighting Sets the Mood
You may want to consider adding lighting to your dining and lounge spaces to allow afternoon barbecues to run into the evening. Good lighting transforms spaces, especially after sunset. String lights, lanterns, and low-voltage pathway lighting provide warmth and safety without overpowering the natural darkness of the region. Keeping the light subtle highlights landscaping, defines walkways and keeps gatherings going long after dusk.
5. Think Low-Maintenance, High-Impact
Whether you have spaces already built or are planning to update or add on, consider what it will take reduce maintenance for these spaces to the lowest level possible. If you plan on entertaining, try to set up systems so prepping outdoor spaces is enjoyable, not a chore. Opting for durable, weather-resistant furniture and easy care landscaping can help. Composite decking and furniture make it simple and easy to clean the space with a hose. Gravel paths and native plants require minimal upkeep while maintaining a polished look. With this design, smoothing paths and trimming can be completed with minimal time commitment and effort throughout the year.
These choices are especially appealing to buyers and seasonal residents who are looking for ease in upkeep.
6. Add a Touch of Adirondack Charm
After your spaces are set up and ready, consider adding some Adirondack charm. Details matter, and extra, thoughtful touches can make a great impression on guests or potential buyers looking at your property. Putting in the effort to find cozy throws, plaid or neutral cushions, locally inspired décor, and wooden serving boards can add unique personality to your property without added clutter. As you add these pieces, your goal should be to make spaces feel welcoming, relaxed and unmistakably Adirondack.
Bonus Tip: In order to provide longevity to your cushions, pillows and outdoor additions, add weather proof storage bins to areas to protect them when not in use. Storage bins can also help organize your cushions and pillows, keeping them in the right areas to avoid getting mixed in with other outdoor furniture accessories.
7. Consider Why It Matters for Home Value
Many prospective Adirondack buyers look for a connection to nature. Outdoor living spaces that provide this opportunity right out the door consistently influence perspective buyer perception when they look in our region. A well-designed outdoor space can make all the difference when it comes to finding the perfect property. Thoughtfully designed backyards suggest the Adirondack lifestyle, comfort and care that many look for when choosing to move or live here. Taking the time to complete even simple upgrades can elevate a property’s appeal and help it stand out from others.
At the end of the day, an Adirondack backyard is about continued connection to nature, friends and family, and the lifestyle that makes the region so special to so many people. Whether you are considering improvements with resale in mind or looking to purchase a property in our region, our team of Adirondack Premier Properties experts is happy to help you.
Here’s to summer nights, good company, and backyards that truly feel like home. Call us at 518-523-3333 today!