How Landscapers Near Me Create Gathering Spaces in Barrington and Jamestown RI
It’s a basic human need to come together. In this time of social distancing, we can still enjoy necessary social interaction outdoors—which makes having a well-designed outdoor living space a necessity. Here’s how landscapers near me create gathering spaces in Barrington and Jamestown, RI.
Related: How Landscaping Companies Open Up Small Landscapes in Tiverton, RI
Start by identifying the style of gathering space you want. Chic and sophisticated or warm and rustic… specific looks are achieved using colors, materials, and layout. Your landscape designer will help you choose the right combination of elements to bring your vision to life. For example:
Chic and Sophisticated
A sophisticated gathering space could include features like a fire table, sleek outdoor kitchen, and a reflecting pool. Colors are typically cool greys. Materials like granite, limestone, and bluestone can be used for both horizontal and vertical surfaces. Patio and retaining wall lines are long and lean, and a modern trend is toward oversized plank-like pavers for an uncluttered look.
When it comes to plantings for a sophisticated gathering space, the focus is on monochromatic designs that emphasize textures to create interest. This puts the main focus on the patio materials and any focal points such as water features or sculptures.
Another must-have feature is a pergola. This classic structure has been used for thousands of years to offer shade. Though they are often covered in climbing vines, they can be left unadorned for a more modern feel.
Warm and Rustic
If there’s one landscape element that says “come sit,” it’s a fire pit. Wood- or gas-fueled fire pits are often the centerpiece of a rustic patio. Since people gather in a circle around the fire, everyone feels included, and you can choose to encircle the patio with a high-backed masonry seating arrangement for an intimate feel, or leave the space open for a few Adirondack chairs.
The colors in a rustic setting tend toward the warm tones of flagstone, although bluestone is another favorite because of its interesting colors and natural texture. Textures are rougher than in a sleek/sophisticated setting. Tumbled stone pavers (or concrete pavers made to look like tumbled stone), stacked flagstone walls, and substantial coping and steps are used to create a “been there forever” look that is sturdy and not in the least fussy.
Design Essentials
Whichever style you prefer, there are a few design essentials that are constants. One is the flow of traffic. No matter how large or compact the gathering space, you never want people to feel crammed together or run the risk of people tripping over furniture. Clearly defined activity zones, with easy flow between them help gathering areas feel comfortable. One way to achieve this is to think in terms of a wheel: each spoke is a walkway that leads to an activity area, and there’s nothing in the way of that flow.
Comfort also matters. People love to come together in a place that feels secure. Unless you have a gorgeous view you want to emphasize, consider privacy fencing, living walls, or trellises to add a sense of seclusion to your outdoor living spaces. If a space feels too exposed, people will naturally gravitate toward the edges where it’s cozier. So instead of a large patio you could opt for a series of small, interconnected spaces. No matter the size and shape of your backyard, your landscape designer could come up with a stunning solution!
Whether you have a clear plan in mind or need us to bring your vision to life, we’re ready to help you create a gathering space that you and your guests will love!