Beachy landscapes are renowned for their ability to make you feel like you’re on vacation. While your busy schedule may not allow you to visit the beach very often, you can easily create a convenient backyard oasis. Whether you’re seeking a small coastal retreat, or you’re planning to transform your large Islip, NY, landscape into a tropical sanctuary - here are a few ideas to help you get started.
Add sand to your landscape
While a beachy backyard can be achieved without the use of sand, many homeowners enjoy its exotic appeal. Sand is relatively affordable and easy to acquire, but its integration into your landscape should be well-planned. Adding sand to your soil, for example, has various consequences, as most plants and flowers do not grow well in sandy conditions. Therefore, you should ensure that any added sand is kept away from your flower beds by creating raised borders using wood or paving stones. You should also ensure that sand is kept out of your pool, as this can lead to increased maintenance requirements.
RELATED: ENHANCE YOUR LANDSCAPE WITH THESE PLANT BED FEATURES
Create a warm fireside
Nothing makes you feel as young and free as gathering around a bonfire to watch the sun set over the ocean. You can recreate this atmosphere by installing a fire pit in your backyard and surrounding it with comfortable chairs. Alternatively, a seat wall can provide casual seating while partially enclosing the fire pit to enhance its intimacy. You definitely don’t need a bonfire-sized fire pit to create an atmosphere that is cozy enough for stargazing or toasting marshmallows. While sleek geometric fire pits are popular among many homeowners, opt for a low, round variety for a natural campfire-like atmosphere.
Install a saltwater pool
A conventional inground swimming pool is cool and refreshing enough for any beachy landscape, but a saltwater pool can go a long way in creating a more convincing coastal experience. Saltwater pools are also considered more environmentally friendly , as they do not require chemicals to maintain. While your existing pool can be converted into a saltwater alternative, certain materials used in its construction may not be compatible with saltwater and a professional contractor should therefore be consulted. You can also improve the beach-like appeal of your pool by creating a beach entry which gradually becomes deeper and resembles the entrance to a calm ocean or lake.
RELATED: CREATING A BEACH ENTRANCE FOR YOUR SALTWATER POOL
Build boardwalk-like walkways
Your walkways can be made to look like parts of an old boardwalk by utilizing weathered logs or railroad ties. A professional contractor should definitely be entrusted with this project, as proper grading is required for a stable end product that drains efficiently. You could also opt for paved walkways, especially if you feel discouraged by the long-term maintenance requirements of wood.
RELATED: THE PROS AND CONS OF USING WOOD FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE IN HUNTINGTON
Build a beach bar
While giving your pool and walkways a tropical look will create a beachy atmosphere within your landscape, it is important to merge this new aesthetic with the style of your existing hardscape features. Consider having a fun bar installed using similar materials to those that exist in your outdoor kitchen or patio. This will ensure that there isn’t a sharp or unpleasant contrast between your oceanic getaway and the rest of your backyard.