Create the Perfect Courtyard Escape

Everyone deserves a magical outdoor space to relax in now and then. If you have a yard, garden, or even a small outdoor alcove, then you have an opportunity to create your perfect courtyard escape right at home.

The definition of a courtyard has expanded from the more traditional ones framed by walls of surrounding homes. Today, there are various types of courtyards, from the Italian-styled spaces you may have seen in the movies to mini Japanese garden-style courtyards for limited spaces. The challenge of creating the perfect courtyard is in choosing a harmonious blend of elements that will form a visually appealing and inviting space that also blends with your home and surrounding landscape.

6 Tips for Creating a Beautiful Courtyard Anywhere in the Midwest

Creating a beautiful garden courtyard involves careful planning. You will want to select the right elements for your personal taste as well as the local climate, as well as follow up with proper landscape maintenance. This process begins with careful planning, taking into consideration the style and size of the outdoor area, along with the selection of suitable plants and decorative features.

These six tips will help you get started during the design phase:

1. Start by assessing the available space and determining the overall theme or style you wish to achieve.
2. Consider different possible layouts, taking into consideration factors such as available space and desired features – for instance, water features, sitting arrangements, or unique plant life.
3. How will it be enclosed? Typically, courtyards are surrounded by fencing, walls or greenery.
4. What types of walkways do you envision in your layout? You want to ensure a balance between open space and functional areas, in addition to factors such as sunlight, drainage, and accessibility. A balance between hardscape and softscape elements can achieve an aesthetic appeal and a functional space.
5. Next, choose a variety of native plants to create a natural habitat that blends with the surroundings. Integrate a variety of flora with attention to color, texture, and fragrance that will pull together the different elements. A horticulture specialist can help you select varieties of plants and flowers that are beautiful, easier to maintain and likely to flourish in your area.
6. Furniture and decorative items should harmonize with the chosen theme, as well. Materials should be fairly weather resistant and low maintenance to survive in the Midwest.

Select the Right Combination of Plants and Decorative Accents

The key to achieving a captivating space is to consider the layout, choose appropriate plants, and incorporate functional elements like seating and lighting. By selecting a variety of plant types with varying heights, textures, and colors, you can establish a visually appealing and calming atmosphere. Additionally, well-placed garden furniture and lighting solutions will enhance the overall experience – particularly for evening entertainment – making the courtyard a space that invites relaxation and conversation in your outdoor haven.

Integrate Outdoor Components, Colors and Materials to Match Your Home

Choose a complementary color palette that incorporates elements of your home design to provide an atmosphere that exudes serenity and tranquility. For example, your bluestone terrace can be accompanied by a brick fireplace to reflect the brick of the home. Your designer will help you arrange the different elements, such as the placement of seating areas, walkways, and water features, in a way that complements the functionality of the courtyard and overall outdoor aesthetic.

Be mindful of the view and any nearby backdrops when designing the patio and landscape. By integrating the courtyard with aspects of your home (or other surrounding structures), your design will result in a more picturesque and inviting space.

A Top-Rated Landscaping Service to Help Design & Maintain Your Ideal Courtyard

At Schmechtig Landscapes, a full-service landscaping company, our team will work with you to design a courtyard that is unique and complements your home’s architectural style. We can plant and maintain the surrounding garden and make sure you get the outdoor escape of your dreams. Our experts can even help you reestablish native plants to your design with a mix of grass, flowers and shrubs that grow in your area naturally.

The team at Schmechtig is ready to assist you with all of your design, outdoor construction and landscaping needs. We will walk you through your options and help you get started creating a courtyard that reflects your home, lifestyle and preferences. Contact Schmechtig Landscapes today to get started on the design of your dreams!