Creating an Outdoor Oasis: Design Your Escape at Home

I’ve always dreamed of a home filled with sunlight, greenery, and an outdoor oasis I could escape to, a space that feels like a breath of fresh air, right in my own backyard. This week, I’m excited to share a glimpse of the space I created and walk you through how to craft something just as special for yourself.

When I started designing our backyard, I was lucky enough to work with a completely blank slate. We literally dug everything up and started from zero. One of the toughest decisions was saying goodbye to a beautiful, ancient tree we loved, but it was limiting the vision I had. Letting go wasn’t easy, but it allowed the space to truly become what I imagined. And now, I’m so grateful I trusted that instinct.

Here’s how you can begin creating your own backyard oasis:

1. Start by Zoning Your Space

Think about how you’ll use your outdoor area and divide it into purposeful zones.

2. Choose Your Style

Is your heart set on an English garden? A serene Japanese retreat? A warm Mediterranean courtyard? For me, it’s always Parisian. I’m drawn to the charm and elegance of Paris. 

3. Understand your hardiness zone:

(A geographic area defined by climate conditions, especially temperature extremes to help gardeners know which plants are likely to survive and thrive in that location).

4. Finish with Furniture & Accents

Select furnishings that echo your chosen style, subtle wood tone for Parisian, natural teak for Mediterranean, clean lines for modern minimalist. Then, add the magic.