Manistee Backyard Outdoor Oasis
Nuñez Outdoor Living Services
Manistee, Backyard Outdoor Oasis
Location: Manistee, MI.
This homeowner had a vision for their backyard, but didn't know where to start. They knew they wanted more space to lounge outside in the summer and fall. The homeowners worked a lot and wanted a tranquil place to fully feel like they were truely relaxing on their only days off. They also envisioned a space where the foreign exchange students they host could hangout, and invite friends, instead of being away from home. It would become an outdoor oasis everyone would want to enjoy.
Where We Started
The lawn was fully enclosed by a fence, and quite the bare backyard. The most important issue for the home owners was to ensure that the backyard be low maintenance, while still being fully transformed in the way they envisioned. They wished for a place where they wouldn't have to work extra, or maintain anything on their days off. Just pure relaxation, and low maintenance.
One of their main concerns was the lawn. They didn't want to hire anyone to consistently cut the lawn, but also definitely didn't want to maintain it themselves. They worried that with their dogs, and foot traffic, it might ruin a nice lawn.
Design & Process
When we started on the design, we aimed to address their biggest concerns first. For the lawn we did have available options for artificial turf lawn that would allow for resilience and drainage, however a more cost effective method they settled on was planting clover instead of grass. Clover is more resilient to foot traffic, and does not need to be mowed. So it was the perfect cost effective fit.
When it came to how to utilize the actual space we wanted something modern, but cozy. In our final design fresh landscaping hugs the fence. Large modern paver slabs create a stepper pathway towards a beautiful spacious patio area, perfect for lounging, with a firepit for chilly nights. Hanging lights above tie everything together with a cozy atmospheric glow.
A brand new sleek deck replaces the old rotting steps that existed. This creates room to add table and chairs, and a grill to bring the cooking out outdoors. An adjustable pergola above shades from the sun and rain. The shutters can be easily adjusted to allow for sun to come through, or closed to keep everything dry! A sleek railing system for the deck fully encloses the porch. With lighted steps and trim, this deck creates a clean finish, from top to bottom.
We also planned to have lights accompanying the paver steppers, by each step, ensuring safety at night from path to patio. As well as having them line each area of landscaping, making the space visible at night, adding to the cozy and relaxing feel.
Planning Stages
When we start a project we often divide it into individual work areas. This is often done when a project is completed in parts rather than as a whole. Our client discussed possible staging for this project, but ultimately decided it would be better to complete it at once. Below we'll go into more detail about how we completed this project from start to finish!
Decking
The deck was the first part of the project we tackled. The old rotted stairs were torn down, and a new frame was built. On top of this new foundation the deck was built. Once the pergola came in, we set it up, and added the railings. Lights were installed into the steps and finally it was done!
Hardscaping
The hardscaping was two parts. Firstly creating the stepper pathway, and secondly the beautiful paver patio. To start we had to be able to get our machinery in there to work, which required us to temporarily take out part of the fence. Once that was done we could really get to work!
Landscaping
For the landscaping we used boxwoods around the base of the deck. Morning light grasses, and hostas were used to decorate the edges of the fence, creating beautiful blossoms through summer.
Seeding
The last step to finish the project was the clover seeding. We spread the seeds, and laid straw over to insulate and help growth, for a perfectly bright a fresh field come spring!
The Transformation
When we first came to this home in Manistee, MI it was a simple space with only potential. They had a dream and we had the design, together we were able to make that dream a reality for a hard working couple that deserved it. Now it is an outdoor oasis for them, and all their friends and loved ones!
Locations
Serving Traverse City, Ludington, Manistee & Surrounding Areas Of Grand Traverse, Manistee & Oceana County, Michigan (MI)
Contact us if you don't see your town listed.Traverse City, Ludington, Manistee, Bear Lake, Beulah, Benzonia, Frankfort, Pentwater, Scottville, Fountain, Shelby, Filer Twp, East Lake, Pierport, Crystal Lake, Honor, Empire, Glen Arbor, Glen Lake, Maple City, Lake Leelanau, Interlochen, Leland, Suttons Bay, Northport, Thompsonville, Hart, Kalkaska Twp, Cadillac, Big Rapids