How To Design the Perfect Outdoor Living Space in Arizona

Building a beautiful, comfortable, and cohesive backyard takes thoughtful planning. You’ll need a guide to design the perfect outdoor living space in Arizona. Continue reading to discover the must-have components to make your backyard alluring and practical.

Find a Color Scheme

Your design venture begins with the colors to establish a cohesive and complementary space. Choosing colors that resonate with Arizona’s desert landscape, which is rich with natural beauty, can enhance your outdoor experience. Here are some shades to consider:

• Shades of tan mimic the sandy terrain. They offer a neutral base that blends well with the surroundings.
• Warm browns reflect the colors of the desert rocks for a grounding effect.
• Shades of green—from sage to olive—evoke the native flora and bring a refreshing touch to your space.
• Soft red tones mirror the stunning sunsets and add warmth without overwhelming the senses.
• Turquoise is an eye-catching accent color. It’s perfect for planters, cushions, and more.
• Sunset orange is a warm, comforting hue resembling the stunning Arizona sunsets. It’s ideal for umbrellas or accent furniture.

Define Spaces With Pavers

Pavers are an excellent tool for defining areas within your outdoor living space. Use them to create pathways, patios, or fire pit zones.

By delineating spaces with patio paver design, you enhance your yard’s visual appeal and improve its functionality. Properly laid pavers create a seamless flow from one area to the next, making the entire space feel cohesive and well-planned.

Pavers come in various materials, including brick, stone, and concrete. Consider your color scheme and the ambiance of the space you want to create, and choose the material and color that best fits your vision.

Install an Overhead Structure for Seating Areas

The Arizona sunshine never ceases. Protecting your seating areas with an overhead structure is essential for protecting your skin and establishing a more enjoyable outdoor experience.

Shade Sails

You can easily install shade sails and adjust them to varying levels of shade. Polyester is the best material for shade sails because of its weather-resistant and UV-protective qualities. You can also choose from an array of colors and shapes to shelter any seating area. It will add the style and protection you need.

Pergola

A pergola is a classy option for a permanent shade solution. Many homeowners use pergolas to balance shade and sunshine for flourishing gardens. Nonetheless, they’re a popular choice for seating areas.

Adjustable louvers provide customizable sun protection. Users can control the amount of light and airflow entering the space for a personalized environment.

In the past, wood has been the traditional material used to construct pergolas. However, rust-resistant aluminum has emerged as the standard for a modern and practical alternative. You can choose from a variety of colors to fit into your color scheme and make your backyard feel complete.

Covered Deck or Patio

Creating a covered deck or patio enhances outdoor enjoyment because of its comprehensive coverage. Some homeowners will prefer a covering that directly attaches to the house for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. Others will consider an independent structure to shelter a paved patio in a different area of the yard.

Develop an Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are convenient and stunning when thoughtfully designed. Start with a high-quality grill. Incorporate countertop space for food preparation and serving, selecting durable materials such as granite or concrete that can withstand the elements. Include a sink to simplify the cleaning process.

You’ll also want spacious storage, such as cabinets and drawers, to keep everything organized and within reach. Consider a dedicated pizza oven for a fun, interactive cooking experience that will delight guests of all ages. Or design a bar area with stools for socializing or watching TV at night.

Incorporate a Fire Pit

Additional heat might seem like the last thing you want in Arizona. Nevertheless, a fire pit is a welcoming gathering spot.

Installing a wood-burning or gas fire pit offers a versatile focal point for your backyard where everyone can enjoy evenings outdoors. You can choose from various designs, including traditional stone styles or sleek modern fire tables. Surround it with comfortable seating to create an intimate setting where guests can relax and share stories.

Place Versatile and Comfortable Seating

Designing the perfect outdoor living space in Arizona isn’t possible without comfortable seating. Choose materials such as metal, teak, or weather-resistant wicker and plush, UV-resistant cushions to enhance relaxation.

Additionally, modular pieces provide more versatility to make the most of each entertainment space. They become multipurpose areas where you can rearrange the layout on a whim.

Add a Pool To Stay Cool

With temperatures soaring in Arizona, having a pool in your backyard is a necessity. It provides a refreshing escape from the scorching heat. But beyond its cooling benefits, there are many ways to make your pool an oasis of relaxation and entertainment. Here are two features you’ll want to include.

Built-In Seating

Adding built-in seating to your pool design creates a cozy lounging area and maximizes space usage. You can choose from various options, such as built-in benches or sun shelves, that allow you to partially submerge yourself in the water while lounging. Built-in seating also eliminates the need for additional outdoor furniture, creating a sleek and clutter-free look.

Smart Technology

With a hectic schedule, you’ll want your pool to be swim-ready at the drop of a hat. Integrating smart technology is an amazing way to relax and keep cool no matter what. Here are some components you’ll want to include:

• Automated cleaning systems keep your pool clean without any hassle or manual labor. These systems use sensors and algorithms to navigate around the pool’s surface and walls for a thorough cleaning.
• LED lighting you can control using an app on your phone. Change the color and brightness, or even sync it with music for a fun and vibrant atmosphere during evening swims or pool parties.
• Smart pool controllers allow you to monitor and adjust the pool’s temperature, water chemistry, and filtration remotely. It’s especially useful for maintaining your pool while traveling or during extreme weather conditions.

Plant Trees for Additional Shade

Trees contribute to a more inviting atmosphere. Not only do they enliven the yard, but they add shade for a more relaxing retreat. Some of the best trees for shade that can accommodate Arizona’s climate include:

• Willow acacia
• Mesquite
• Palo verde
• Arizona ash
• Tipu
• Desert willow

These trees are commonly planted in our desert climate and with proper care will thrive in your backyard. Strategically planting them around seating areas and pathways can create pockets of shade, making your outdoor space more comfortable during the hot summer months.

Think Green offers customized outdoor design solutions. Our in-house designers will discuss your wants and determine how to make your imagination become the perfect outdoor area. Visit our website to view previous projects and request a quote!