For many people, it can be easy to overlook the beauty and tranquillity that the outside of your home offers. Whether it’s a small balcony area, a sprawling garden or even just a cosy porch, the outdoor spaces around your house can become a source of peace and joy. Learning how to appreciate these areas more can improve your overall quality of life and help you feel more connected to nature. Here’s how you can begin to appreciate the outside of your home more fully.
1. Create a relaxing outdoor space
First and foremost, creating a space that feels inviting is key to spending more time outside. Start by assessing the current state of your outside space. Is it cluttered or uncomfortable? Consider adding elements like comfortable seating, outdoor rugs or even a small table where you can sit and enjoy a cup of coffee. A well-designed outdoor space can make it easier to spend time there.
If you have lots of space to work with, such as a big garden, you could add a garden room to extend your living space. This is one of the most luxurious and practical additions to your outdoor area. Garden rooms are versatile structures. You could opt for a veranda style or one with huge sliding glass doors that open wide. Adding a garden room not only increases your living space but also provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in your outdoor surroundings while enjoying the comforts of an indoor room. When adding this, consider the benefits of what a fresh coat of paint could do to the rest of the house. It could completely change the look and feel of your home, making the rest of the house feel just as fresh, vibrant and modern as your new garden room.
2. Spend time outdoors regularly
Often, the simple act of making time to be outside can help you appreciate it more. You don’t need to have a grand reason to be in your outdoor space—reading a book, enjoying a meal or even just sitting and listening to the sounds around you can be deeply relaxing. Make a habit of stepping outside each day, even if only for a few minutes.
You might also try:
- Morning coffee or tea outside.
- Outdoor exercise, like yoga or simple stretching.
- Stargazing or spending time outside in the evenings to appreciate the night sky.
3. Connect with nature
Nature has a calming and restorative effect on most people. If you have a garden, take the time to tend to it regularly. Planting flowers, herbs or even vegetables can provide a sense of accomplishment and connection with the earth. If gardening isn’t your thing, even placing bird feeders or small water features can attract wildlife like birds, butterflies and bees, adding an element of natural beauty.
4. Host outdoor gatherings
Your outdoor space can become a place for connection, not just with nature but with others as well. Hosting outdoor gatherings—whether it’s a casual barbecue, a family picnic or a small dinner with friends—can help you see your garden as a vibrant, lively space. Sharing your outdoor area with others can lead to new memories and experiences, further enhancing your appreciation of the space. Your garden room could be the perfect place to host because, come rain or shine, you can get together and enjoy some time making memories.
5. Make seasonal changes
Changing your outdoor space with the seasons is a great way to stay engaged and appreciate it year-round. In the spring, you can plant new flowers or refresh your garden. Summer is perfect for outdoor lounging and evening gatherings. In autumn, you can enjoy the cooler weather with warm blankets and fire pits, while winter might bring opportunities for seasonal decorations or even a cosy outdoor hot chocolate station.
Your home’s exterior spaces are more than just extensions of your house—they are places where you can connect with nature, unwind and share moments with loved ones. By making a few small changes and taking the time to notice the beauty outside, you can begin to appreciate these areas more deeply. Whether through creating a relaxing atmosphere, spending more time outdoors, or connecting with nature, the space outside your home has the potential to become a cherished part of your daily life.
