On top of thinking about climate, consider maintenance as well. For more mild climates, a pool may not be the most practical of outdoor ideas, but a hot tub or unique water feature could be just the right element for you. For those in dry desert climates, avoid water-thirsty grass and opt for less-thirsty alternatives, then invest in a pool that will keep you and the neighbors cool in the heat. What are my minimalist outdoor design options? When making changes to your modern front yard or backyard, be sure to consider what makes sense for your home and the local weather. Research materials and landscaping techniques that are appropriate for your location and style, and don't forget add the plan for the final touches, like outdoor decor and furniture, to complete the space. Set your budget ahead of time, and work carefully with your designer to make sure you stick to it. When browsing minimalist outdoor decorating ideas and remodel inspiration, keep in mind the following advice to make the most out your great outdoors: Because such dramatic changes can cost a pretty penny, it’s important to carefully consider all modern outdoor ideas before delving in.

Your modern outdoor living area is your first chance to inspire and make an impression on neighbors and guests, so sprucing it up can give your blah house a much-needed boost. Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!Įven though outdoor spaces are often overlooked, yard renovations and redesigns frequently pack the biggest punch. Cable railings from Loftus Iron add to the contemporary style of the home, including a gate feature at the top of the front steps to contain the family pets when they’re let out into the yard. The front entry of the home was also updated to include a large, open porch with access to the newly landscaped yard. Trex decking was used throughout, along with red cedar porch, pergola and privacy lattice detailing. Inside the screen porch, a patio heater allows the family to enjoy this space much of the year.Ĭoncrete was the material chosen for the outdoor countertops, to ensure it lasts several years in Minnesota’s always-changing climate.

The screen house doors are made from six custom screen panels, attached to a top mount, soft-close track. A new glass sliding door was inserted along a perpendicular wall to connect the home’s interior kitchen to the backyard oasis. The previous, small deck was demolished and the sliding door replaced with a window. The homeowners wanted to resolve these issues and create a much more useable outdoor area for family and pets.Ĭastle, in conjunction with Field Outdoor Spaces, designed and built a large deck area in the back yard of the home, which includes a detached screen porch and a bar & grill area under a cedar pergola. In addition, there were concerns about soil erosion and water intrusion to the house. However, the home’s lot was unusually steep and overgrown with vegetation. A massive conversion transformed the home into a spacious, multi-level residence in the 1990’s. This modern home, near Cedar Lake, built in 1900, was originally a corner store.

Black steel pergola