3 Ways to Perfect Your Summer Oasis
Summer, oh glorious summer, has arrived. The sun is beating down and here in Ontario, the humidity is seeping into our bones. A different mindset seems to come with the heat and many more of us are spending time in the great outdoors hiking, floating, and paddling.
You escape on getaways, and you also stay close to home. Almost 80% of us regularly hang out on our decks and in our yards, so it makes sense to design a comfortable and charming space that’s perfect for both tranquility and hospitality. Technology can be used in landscaping for many reasons. Here are three possibilities that will up the wow factor of your summer sanctuary.
1) Light up your world
You know how important the right lighting is to the safety and ambiance of your home. Similarly, is its significance outside your house, in your landscape. Optimal brightness makes your space safer and illuminates the yard features you’ve worked hard to create.
When considering lights, Coastal Source recommends you consider the following factors:
· focal points – would you like to emphasize a special fountain, plant, or statue?
· what you will be doing in certain areas – for example, will you be tossing around a football on the lawn or sharing wine by the inglenook?
· views from the house that you’d like to enhance
· hazardous areas such as pathways and steps where lighting is necessary for safety
· the mood you wish to convey – do you want your space warm, cool, subtle, or bright?
· and how you will control your setup (photocell, timer, or an automated system)
Perhaps you had a chance to look over Coastal Source’s recent display at Balaklava’s Grand Opening or on Friday, June 27 in Walkerton. You were able to touch and see outdoor lighting that has been specifically designed for harsh weather, from Canadian blizzards to Gulf Coast hurricanes. If you missed those opportunities to explore functional and aesthetic options for backyard lighting, it’s not too late. Contact us and we’ll arrange an in-person or online meet-up.
2) Bringing the inside out
Visualize this: The weather is the kind of perfect we dream about throughout the whole year. The mosquitoes have quieted their nightly feasting, and the air is less humid, so you no longer need a dozen towels stacked beside you to wick away the sweat. You’re an avid fan of the Jays or you’re hooked on Netflix’s Running Point, but you don’t want to be stuck inside.
Why be confined indoors for any more of the year than you need to be? The perfect solution: an outdoor TV.
You may wonder why you can’t just creatively bolt the Smart TV from your mancave to your deck for a couple of months. There are many reasons. An outdoor television has specific features that are crucial to survive its alfresco existence.
· These devices are designed to withstand humidity.
· They are weatherproof, as is the mount that secures them. Canadian winters can be harsh.
· They have “sealed enclosures, anti-reflective screens, and built-in heaters to maintain optimal performance in the cold”.
Balaklava is a big fan of Sunbrite and can help you choose the right model. We can also hang it and insulate and seal cable connections, power outlets, and ports. We also ensure that your corresponding wifi is up to snuff. We’ve recently installed several at the Clinton Raceway. Feel free to head over on a Sunday and take a look.
3) Soundscape your landscape
Maybe your idea of outdoor serenity doesn’t include a TV, but you still long to be connected to your playlist as you lounge on the deck.
Sound is significant. You may already know that
· the trickle of water features, birdsong, and your choice of music increases blood flow to your brain and improves your mood.
· Music can be used to muffle noise pollution such as traffic, the persistent screech of ambulance sirens, and ice cream truck jingles.
· landscaping, including soundscaping, increases your property value by 15-20%.
What’s the best way to enrich your outdoor space sound-wise? Seamless integration of tech is based on your listening preferences and goals. Are you “all about that bass” like Meghan Trainor or are you seeking subtle background music? Understanding your desires and goals helps Balaklava design your ultimate system.
Summer is here. Ask us how Balaklava can help you make the most of your outdoor space with the addition of lighting, a sound system, and a screen. You’ve put a lot of work into creating the ideal outdoor oasis – now be sure to spend loads of time enjoying it.
