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Having an outdoor space can allow you the relaxation you require after a long day at work or running errands. It can be your dedicated place to enjoy bonding activities with the family.
Having a multi-functional outdoor space can maximise the number of uses that you get out of the space and give each member of the family something to do when in your home’s outdoor environment. Transforming your outdoor space may come with important decisions. For example, choosing between garden mulch or playground mulch, depending on the area’s overall function and intention.
A multi-functional outdoor space is designed to serve a variety of purposes outside of the home, from a zen garden to a fun and entertaining play space to a chill, relaxing hang-out space for teens.
The significance of these multi-functional zones can’t be understated, as they allow the family to come together in a place where everyone can have something to enjoy, no matter their age or interests, and have a place to enjoy being together while being present at the moment. From a toddler exploring play to a grandparent relaxing outdoors with a book, there can be something for everyone.
One of the key things to consider when designing a multi-functional space is to think about a layout and furniture that lends itself to flexibility. This may be a table that can fold up small or a concrete art piece that doubles as seating.
This flexibility allows the space to adapt to the needs of the people within it and change as their needs change. This may mean that at meal times, the furniture changes, or as the number of people changes, the layout of the outdoor space shifts.
It might be wise to create different zones so multiple activities can be going on at one time. For example, a table can be set up in one corner while another area is left free for games.
Plant life in your outdoor space is essential for bringing interest and life to the area, but having high-maintenance or especially tricky plants to care for might make people wary of being around them.
Try planting low-maintenance plants like native plants or species with multiple benefits, such as edible herbs or those used in sensory play for young children. These plants are less likely to be worrisome for your guests if they get trampled in the name of play.
When creating any kind of play area, especially one that might be used with minimal supervision, safety should be at the forefront of the mind when considering design. Think about simple ways to incorporate safety into your designs for your multi-functional outdoor area.
This might mean locking all moving parts into place or limiting seating to soft cushioned flooring for small children, with larger seating having to be moved into place by adults. Consider adding childproofing, like rounding the edges of sharp corners or adding soft edges to anything blunt a child could run into.
To get the most out of your furniture, consider having multi-functional structures. You can incorporate nature into your structures, like having a bench seat that is also a planter box. These multi-use structures will help increase the flexibility of your designs while also adding natural beauty to your space.
An often overlooked feature of gardens is mulches, which can offer amazing benefits for both functionality and aesthetics. Mulches can offer benefits for both safety as a soft material for landing on and function for moisture control and weed prevention. Mulches are a great choice for keeping down maintenance on your outdoor areas without having to use a hard surface like concrete or tiling, which can be dangerous for small children.
In addition, mulches can come in different colours, allowing you to customise your space and offering you and your family the ability to put your twist on your living areas.
Most importantly, you should remember that the multifunctional space you are designing is one you and your family should want to enjoy and enjoy often. Getting their opinions on the things they want to see represented in their space will help them feel included in both the planning and design of the space.
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