6 creative outdoor living schemes

Outdoor living areas often become the focal point of a home. We typically consider the rear yard to be the best location for an outdoor living space, creating a strong interconnection between the interior and exterior. However, when strategically located at the front of the home, this area can become a welcoming entry while also functioning as additional entertaining space.

The following examples from our design team all succeed in extending the interior living spaces into outdoor retreats. From cozy conversation areas in front of a fireplace to a dramatic glass-enclosed backyard, each of these designs emphasizes the value of outdoor living spaces.

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1. Riverfront Escape

Architect
Donald F. Evans, AIA
The Evans Group
devans@theevansgroup.com
407.650.8770
www.theevansgroup.com

Designing outdoor environments that compliment the architectural theme of the home is imperative; take full advantage of the natural aspects of the site and make the most of what you have been given. In this case, the site is low and falls off toward a river, so we designed a unique “boardwalk” entry over a large koi pond and a rear yard environment with a cascading rock waterfall pool environment. The result is a home that looks like it belongs on this site along the river.

Rather than fill a low, wet riverfront site, the design utilizes an elevated “car bridge” that leads to an entry bridge over a large koi pond to the front door of the home. It accentuates the theme of the home and creates a breathtaking entry sequence.

A. Upon entering the home, you can see straight through to the rear-yard outdoor oasis. 

B. The covered verandah and boater’s porch look out over the cascading outdoor environment toward the river beyond. The large, two-story screen enclosure was designed to create the necessary protection from the elements while not creating a visual eyesore.

C. The master suite was designed to take full advantage of the outdoor environment and the views afforded from this one-of-a-kind site.

D. Adjacent to the spa, a shallow kiddie pool was disguised as the top of the cascading waterfall pools.

E. Various wood and stone decks designed around the cascading pools and tropical plants are perfect for sunbathing, river wildlife watching, or visiting with family.

F. The culmination of the cascading rear-yard environment is the boat dock on the river.