How to Create a Tranquil Escape in Your Backyard

Your home should be your retreat from the busyness of the outside world, so why not create a tranquil escape in your very own backyard for you to enjoy.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• landscape designer
• landscaping
• stone/water
• koi fish
• time and effort
• finances

1. 
    
   trees and shrubs

   The first thing you should do if landscaping is not your area of expertise is to consult a professional landscape designer. Have ideas on what you want to create in your tranquil escape. You want to add many elements that can add definition such as various types of shrubs, trees, and flowers. The more variety you have in your landscaping the more pleasing it is to your eyes.

2. 
    
   Koi

   If you can afford to add waterfalls and water to your escape than do it! Water is one of the most relaxing and therapeutic sounds to unwind with as you seek solace. A beautiful addition to add to your pond is to get a few Koi, these fish are gorgeous and are pretty resilient if cared for properly.

3. 
    
   lighting design

   The last thing you can do to add atmosphere and tranquility is to add lighting. The use of lighting in landscape design is a wonderful accent that can bring to life your ideas even in the dark. The lighting can be anywhere you want to accent a key element for example: a patio, walkway, stone wall, or beautiful shrubbery.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you properly care for your ponds and manage the PH levels so that the water is healthy for the Koi to survive and flourish.
• You can do as much as you can afford.
• Adding lighting and a few accent corners to your backyard can be very inexpensive depending on what you choose to do.
• Please do not try to install a pond unless you first research where pipelines and gas lines are located on your property.
• Excavating can be dangerous if you are inexperienced and do not consult a professional.

Resources

• "eHow Home and Garden Topic Guide."

[juliemcmurchie]

on 11/24/2009 Nice tips on creating a tranquil escape in the backyard. Having somewhere to retreat to and enjoy the surroundings is such a pleasure.

[lighthouse1958]

on 8/8/2009 A yard is beautiful with pretty landscapeing especially with a pretty waterfall. Nice. 5*

[jamaclassics]

on 7/29/2009 Nice pics! I can't have Koi, the raccoons eat them!

[starlet67]

on 7/27/2009 This is a great way to make your home your haven and sancturay! Great idea!5*

[bfreethree]

on 7/22/2009 The pictures were lovely, I felt relaxed. Thanks 5*