Your Backyard Oasis Awaits

(HIT) - Does your home have a personal retreat where you can unwind? If not, look outdoors for the perfect location to create one. A backyard oasis where you can relax and entertain can be simple or grand, blending many elements such as lighting, greenery, fences, gazebos, hard-scapes and overhead structures in concert with a focal point such as a hot tub.

Be sure that your deck or patio includes a mix of elements that promote a sense of privacy for a more intimate setting. "Architectural features and strategically-placed plant life shiel views from neighbors," suggest Anthony Pasquarelli from Jacuzzi

Planning your backyard oasis is the first step in the process of creating the perfect retreat and watching your design concept come to life can be a very rewarding experience. You don’t need to be an expert to execute a simple project. "Many homeowners forget that they can start small and build their dream backyard over the years," suggests Anthony Pasquarelli of Jacuzzi Brand Hot Tubs. "Having a plan and blending elements to reflect your own unique style and how you live are critical to the success of the project."

When planning and designing your backyard oasis, start by sketching out a long-term plan. Think about all of the elements that you would want to include. Be sure to account for any outdoor lighting and electrical, sprinklers and a patio cover or pergola to protect you and your guests from the elements.

Here are some suggestions that will help you tackle specific areas.

The Hot Tub:

	Add excitement to a simple patio with the addition of a key focus point such as a hot tub. This Chelsee model from Sundance Spas includes a spill-over water feature and LED lighting for night time fun with friends and family.

Start with the hot tub, since it will dictate how you want to use your available space and the environment around it. "Choose your tub based on the number of people it will need to accommodate and the features it offers. For example, do you want a spa that fits two people comfortably or six," recommends Bill Smelley of Sundance Spas. "Made for iPod" docking stations and matching steps create a semi-custom look for the hot tub. Since a hot tub is easy to install and filled with a simple garden hose, the only consideration is electrical. Reputable hot tub retailers with products backed up by organizations like The Good Housekeeping Seal are a good place to start when seeking information.

Deck or Patio?:

Some homeowners like spas that are surrounded by either a symmetrical or free-form deck. The deck provides not only a frame for the spa, but also a safe walkway around its edge. A good decking should harmonize with other materials used in the backyard and should feel comfortable under your feet. Patios made of brick, block, natural stone, pavers or concrete provide a low maintenance option. If you have an existing concrete patio that you want to freshen up, you may be able to lay tile overtop or add a brick ribbon accent for a smaller budget.

Plants:

Don’t forget that plants are a key ingredient to the backyard oasis providing textures, shapes and color for a naturally peaceful environment. Decorative plants can set the tone while trees and bushes can provide privacy or even fill in odd angles and spaces. In some settings, you may want to consider hedges that block unwanted views and discourage trespassing. If you use your hot tub in the winter, select evergreen plant varieties for year-round privacy.

Lighting:

Light is an element that’s often overlooked, yet it has the power to impact your mood and provide safety. Lighting can dramatically alter your backyard oasis when night falls, highlighting your landscaping and architectural features or simply creating a warm glow all around. Before you create a final lighting plan, it’s helpful to experiment. You can use inexpensive stake lights as well as different kinds of bulbs to find the perfect scheme.

Mid-priced hot tubs like the J-300 Collection from Jacuzzi or the 780 Series from Sundance Spas offer multi-color lighted water features plus interior and exterior, energy-efficient LED lighting. Contemporary models include lighting which can be set to one color or programmed to automatically cycle through an array of colors to fit any mood.

Creating your own backyard oasis should be a labor of love. When it’s time to relax, the investment will seem well worth the effort. For more information and advice on backyard retreats, check out www.HotTubGuide.com.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center