How To Build The Perfect Outdoor Living Space

If you’re anything like me, you’ll contemplate each and every year whether or not investing money into an outdoor entertainment and living space is worth it. But there is so much more I could do to my house with that money is a common thought that prevents people from taking the leap of faith they need in order to enjoy time outside in the summer. But not this year, this year we want to encourage you to finally dive in and make that change you’ve been dreaming of for so long. So, I present to you, the ultimate guide to transforming your backyard into an envy-inducing paradise! Whether you're the kind of person who wants to spend cozy evenings under the stars, or maybe you’re the outgoing party animal looking for the perfect space for lively gatherings with friends and family, creating the perfect patio and entertainment area is within your reach. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to bring your vision to life, from design inspiration to finding reliable contractors, and everything in between.

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Step 1: Dream Big, Plan Smart

Before you start digging into the dirt (literally), take some time to envision your ideal outdoor space. What is it that you’re looking for? 

• Do you picture a serene retreat with lush greenery and a bubbling fountain? 
• Do you want a modern entertainment hub with a built-in grill and sleek furniture? 
• Do you want a kid-friendly play space that will give you a bit more alone time in the summer? 
• Is a pool in the picture? A hottub? 
• How about a garden? Are you a green thumb looking to save on groceries this summer by growing your own produce?

Drawing inspiration from sources like HGTV's outdoor design specials or Architectural Digest's features on celebrity patios can help you refine your vision. And if you’re super specific about what it is you’re looking for, plop some keywords into Pinterest and see what comes up.

Once you have a clear idea of what you want, it's time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard…?) and sketch out your design. Again, websites like Pinterest and Houzz are treasure troves of patio inspiration, featuring real-life projects from homeowners and designers alike. Don't be afraid to mix and match ideas to create a space that's uniquely yours. You may also find value in looking at YouTube and watching how other homeowners facilitated their backyard renovation process.

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Step 2: Find the Right Help

Turning your backyard dreams into reality often requires the expertise of skilled professionals. And that’s where we can help. Bidmii can help connect you with contractors in a way that keeps you and your home protected. The features we include on our platform are designed with one key component in mind: protection. So, whether you need a landscaper to bring your garden to life or a carpenter to build a custom pergola, Bidmii can help you find the perfect person to get it done. 

As a refresher, here’s how Bidmii works: 

1. You start by posting a project. Now, we offer dynamic project creation which asks you ONLY questions that are relevant to your project by using keywords from the project title. 
2. Contractors will start offering quotes. You may have contractors ask clarifying questions, but this gives you an opportunity to check out profiles, read reviews, and ultimately, decide who will get the job done most optimally. 
3. You pay for the project. Once you’ve found the person you want to work with, you pay for the quote upfront. BUT, fear not, Bidmii holds those funds in trust until the project is complete. 
4. The job gets done. 
5. When you’re happy with the job, you confirm that it’s complete and we release the project funds to the contractor.

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Step 3: Choose Quality Materials

When it comes to building the perfect patio, quality materials are key. Our team is no stranger to the difficulties of procuring materials, but being patient and prioritizing durable materials will save you loads in the future. Opting for weather-resistant materials like natural stone or composite decking will ensure that your outdoor oasis stands the test of time. Check out Home Depot or Lowe's, both in store and online, to browse from a wide range of patio materials. And we’re not just talking stones and decking, you can also find outdoor furniture in these stores, making it easy to find everything you need in one place.

And here’s a little pro tip for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their outdoor space, consider incorporating high-end finishes like marble countertops or teak furniture. While these materials may come with a higher price tag, they go the extra mile in elevating your patio to new heights of sophistication and style.

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Step 4: Add Personal Touches

No backyard oasis is complete without a little personal flair. Each of us has got our own unique style, and it’s important that we try to find ways to weave that into every project we work on. So, whether that be hanging string lights for a cozier ambiance or planting colourful flowers to attract butterflies, these small details can make a big impact in how you feel when you spend time in your outdoor space.

If you feel like you need a bit of inspiration, I highly recommend looking at design blogs like Apartment Therapy or Dwell. These blogs are awesome because they showcase real homes and gardens that are filled with creative ideas for adding personality to outdoor spaces. And they also range from DIY projects to budget-friendly decor tips, so these resources offer a wealth of inspiration for homeowners looking to make their patio truly their own.

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Step 5: Enjoy Your Outdoor Haven

So, what’s left to do once all the hard work is behind you and your new patio is in place? It's time to sit back, relax, and enjoy. I suggest thinking about a hosting opportunity, like a barbecue with friends, or even just simply unwinding with a book and a glass of wine. I guarantee that your backyard is sure to become the highlight of your home… at least in the summer months.

Building the perfect backyard patio and entertainment area is a rewarding project that adds value and enjoyment to your home. By following these steps and utilizing resources like Bidmii, you can turn your outdoor dreams into reality. So why wait? Start planning your patio makeover today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime.

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