Transforming your backyard into a personalized haven might seem like a tall order. Where do you even start? How do you choose from all the options available with patios and outdoor living spaces? Carmel Landscapes partners with Northeast Ohio families to guide them step-by-step in the process of creating functional, memorable outdoor spaces in the Greater Cleveland area.

In this guide, you’ll find:

  • How to approach outdoor space planning with purpose
  • Essential elements to consider in your design
  • Smart budgeting tips for high-end outdoor living spaces
  • Ways to future-proof your investment
  • Local considerations for Northeast Ohio yards and landscapes

Beyond the basic patio: Creating backyard spaces that tell your story

When was the last time you witnessed a perfect outdoor moment? Maybe it was watching your children take their first steps across a sun-warmed patio, or sharing life advice with family around a crackling fire pit while crickets provided nature’s soundtrack. These are far more than just living spaces – they’re stages for life’s most precious memories.

The value of thoughtful design

Today’s outdoor living spaces have evolved far beyond simple concrete patio slabs. They’ve become valuable extensions of our homes, offering both practical functionality and significant real estate value. Here’s what makes them special:

  • They foster meaningful connections between family and friends
  • They provide spaces for entertainment and relaxation
  • They create opportunities for outdoor cooking, dining, and gathering
  • They improve connection with nature
  • They offer return on investment through increased property value

Essential elements for successfully planning your outdoor space

Do you remember watching MTV Cribs back in the day? If you’re anything like us, you were fascinated by the large open plans of the superstar’s homes. Towering drapes that seem to suspend in space, indoor pools, and outrageous kitchens lined with copper plated cookware were just the beginning.

When they showcased the backyards, their fountains in lagoon-style pools, the ambient tone back-lit by blue lights casting silhouettes of the stone work that danced across what seemed like miles of patio space, it was emotionally moving.

The spaces were united by cascading steps tier after tier separated by gorgeous plantings and natural stonework that welcomed expansive pool houses, pergolas, and pavilions where stories unfolded.

You may be surprised to know that you don’t need to be a superstar celebrity to create your perfect outdoor living space. It all starts with you.

Your unique tastes. Your unique needs. The unique vision you have for your dream hardscape, whether it’s a new patio, fountains, rain gardens, an outdoor kitchen and everything in between.

Starting with a professional design and construction company is your key to unlocking the space you’ve been dreaming of.

Professional design investment

Your outdoor space deserves more than a mystery-box approach. Take a step-by-step approach to considering your options. A comprehensive design:

  • Serves as your project roadmap
  • Ensures clear communication of specifications
  • Allows for future scalability
  • Helps prevent costly mistakes
  • Creates a cohesive vision for your space

Quality materials matter

Think timeless, not trendy. When planning your budget:

  • Prioritize high-quality materials over additional features
  • Consider future maintenance requirements
  • Request material samples and view products in person
  • Account for local climate challenges specific to Northeast Ohio

Smart infrastructure planning

Future-proof your investment by considering:

  • Power requirements for lighting, electronics, and appliances
  • Gas line placement for grills, fire features, and outdoor kitchens
  • Water access for kitchens and irrigation
  • Drainage solutions that protect both your property and the environment

Bringing your vision to life

Every outdoor living space should reflect its owner’s personality and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a chef’s outdoor kitchen with prep areas and dining space, an entertainment zone for graduation parties and family gatherings, a peaceful retreat for evening relaxation, or a multi-functional space that grows with your family.

The key is identifying your objectives and making them feasible within your space and budget.

Making smart investment choices increases your home value

Exterior design and outdoor living spaces have become increasingly valuable over the years. Their purpose optimizes the use of available space, fostering equity and highly functional, in-demand real estate. Demand is so high and their purpose so practical, the  value of these well-planned spaces increases with every square foot.

When planning your budget:

  • Don’t sacrifice square footage for features – a good design is scalable
  • Consider phasing your project to achieve your complete vision over time
  • Invest in proper lighting to extend usable hours and enhance ambiance
  • Plan for future additions with appropriate infrastructure

When budgeting, expect to pay for a design. It holds amazing value in the execution and outcome of your project. Not having a design is like buying a mystery box… what did you just buy? It’s part of your contract and spells out specifics.

Ask for high quality materials over features, A comprehensive design is scalable and considers future additions. High quality materials are timeless, growing with you. Talk to your designer about your passions, they will be able to incorporate features that complement your lifestyle and goals.

Greenery and landscape design

Consider native greenery that is cohesive with your hardscape. We believe, as a professional patio builder, that each property owner has a responsibility to protect the environment around them. Hardscapes often displace water and natural environmental features, and we provide solutions that solve these issues with our designs. 

Professional execution matters

At Carmel Landscapes, we understand that no two projects are the same. Our approach focuses on understanding your unique lifestyle and objectives.

We work with you to create custom solutions for your specific property and your specific vision.

Implementing sustainable practices while delivering exceptional craftsmanship is our passion. Nothing makes a greater space than building something that means something special to you and your family.

Local considerations for Northeast Ohio

Our climate here in the Greater Cleveland area presents unique challenges and opportunities that need to be accounted for in the planning process:

  • Material selection that withstands freeze-thaw cycles
  • Native plantings that complement hardscaping
  • Drainage solutions for heavy spring rains
  • All-season functionality for year-round enjoyment

Moving forward

Remember that the most successful projects begin with a clear vision and professional guidance. Whether you’re planning a complete outdoor living area or starting with a foundational patio design, considering these elements will help ensure your investment brings joy for years to come.

Carmel Landscapes specializes in creating custom outdoor living spaces throughout Northeast Ohio, including hardscaping, outdoor kitchens, fire features, and comprehensive landscape design. Contact us to discuss how we can help bring your outdoor vision to life.