How to Make Your Backyard More Exciting

Do you love to play sports or engage in outdoor activities but don't have the time to visit a gym or sports centre on a regular basis? If so, consider creating a dedicated sports or activity area in your backyard! 

The travel restrictions imposed by the pandemic forced many people to seek alternative ways to enjoy their time off, with many opting to upgrade their yards to make them more functional and visually appealing. The pandemic is now in our rear-view mirror, but the trend toward “staycations” — and the need to enhance our outdoor spaces — has continued. 

Why include sports courts and activity centres in your yard?

To truly enjoy life and the outdoors, you need to take some time out of your busy day to play. Whether that means brushing up on your short game, playing mini-putt with the kids or working up a sweat on the tennis courts, you’re more likely to get the fresh air and exercise you need when you don’t have to travel miles to do it. Here are some benefits of including room for sport in your landscape design.

• Promote a healthy lifestyle — If you want to encourage your family members (and yourself!) to spend more time outside, you need to include a space dedicated to activities you can all enjoy. It’s easier to put down the video games and turn off the tv when there’s something fun to do outside. It’s a great way to bond as a family while brushing up on your athletic skills!
• Convenience — Having a dedicated space to engage in physical activity can save time and eliminate the need to travel to a gym or sports centre. And if you’re an avid golfer, you can work on your short game whenever you have a few minutes to spare, improving your handicap in the process!
• Increase the value of your property — To many people, having your own private putting green or tennis court on your property sounds like something only available to the rich and famous… but nothing can be further from the truth! A good designer knows how to incorporate a sports court or activity area while working within the parameters of your property. These types of features enhance the overall aesthetics and value of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Start with design

The first step in creating a dedicated sports or activity area is to consider your specific needs and preferences. Do you enjoy playing basketball, tennis, or mini-putt? Or maybe bocce ball and lawn bowling are more your style. Take the time to think about the activities you enjoy and design your space accordingly.

The design should also take into account the size and shape of your backyard, as you’ll need a location that is flat and level. If your property isn’t naturally flat, don’t worry — we can grade your property by building up low areas and using retaining walls. Make sure to leave ample space for equipment and any other features you’d like to add, such as landscape lighting and a patio area for seating.

Provide regular maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your sports or activity area in good condition. Make sure to regularly inspect and clean equipment and repair or replace any damaged or worn components. In addition, keep the area clean and free of debris, such as leaves or branches, which can pose a safety hazard. 

Depending on the activity or sport, you may also need to regularly water and fertilize any plants or grass in the area.

Ready to make your backyard more exciting?

You can make the most of your backyard experience by including some sort of sports court or activity area in your landscape design. The designers at Vandenberg Landscapes can help shape your yard and include features that will enhance your lifestyle and get you and your family outside more often, enjoying the great outdoors.

To get started, simply schedule a consultation.