Summer vacation as simple as a step outside
The addition of a beautiful pool can add luxury to your home instantly.
(BPT) – Summer vacation – while the words may conjure up visions of the beach, more often than not it’s made up of hot SUVs lined with fast-food wrappers, crowded hotel rooms and tired children.
A typical summer vacation costs the average American family about $1,180 per person, according to an American Express survey. Imagine if your family invested the cost of this summer’s vacation into upgrading your back yard. Whether making a big addition like adding a pool or revamping your outdoor cooking area or just adding some accents to make your outdoor space more enjoyable, this is the summer to take the party outside and create a space your family will enjoy year-round.
There’s a reason why virtually every great hotel has a pool and hot tub; people love the recreation and relaxation that accompanies the water. When it comes to creating a resort-like vacation experience in your back yard, nothing ts the bill better than a swimming pool.
A swimming pool is one home improvement that pays for itself in multiple ways, from increasing your home value and reducing travel costs to providing a fun place for family and friends to bond. Seventy- ve percent of pool owners said their swimming pool turned their back yard into an everyday vacation spot, according to research by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals. Four out of ve pool owners said it’s their favorite way to entertain guests, and it’s the perfect place to connect with family and guests.
Though the economy continues to be a factor for improvement-minded homeowners, swimming pools are a natural t for those opting to stay put and improve their current homes. And while adding an installation can be a serious investment, trusted local professionals like Morehead Pools guide clients through the process and give them the oasis they’ve envisioned. Able to work with a wide range of budgets, the team at Morehead promises that if a client can dream it, they can create it. Michael Morehead said, “The options are truly limitless. We will work with clients to create the backyard getaway they want in as timely a manner as possible.” With a turnaround of just six to seven weeks, there is plenty of summer left to enjoy a new pool this year.
Another great way to spice up your back yard is to add an outdoor cooking and dining area. Whether that means adding a grill and some comfortable lawn furniture or designing an outdoor kitchen t for a chef, this is a spot where the whole family can gather to soak up the beautiful weather and enjoy fresh meals. Red River Remodelers works on projects of all sizes, including luxurious outdoor kitchens for various budgets.
Whether working from scratch or building onto an existing porch or home, Angie Jackson, co-owner of Red River Remodelers, said, “The more upfront planning, the shorter the project will be. We start with picking out the appliances, from the grill, to mini fridge and sink options, and then we start planning the space around those items.”
With seemingly endless material options in faux stone, granite, wood, reclaimed brick and more, the outdoor kitchen can truly become an extension of interior décor or stand out in its own style. Offering full turnkey service, Red River Remodelers can handle every step of the project, from design to construction to styling.
If you’re looking to freshen up your outdoor space without going to the lengths of pools and outdoor kitchens, it’s easy to add comfortable touches that will draw your family outside all year. Corner Collections offers a wide selection of outdoor furniture that will make your back yard feel like a lagniappe to your indoor living space, and they are sure to have colors and styles to suit every aesthetic. They also have a fun accumulation of fountains, statuary and pottery to add personality and durable décor to your view. Akin’s Nursery, while being the go-to for landscaping service, advice and supplies, also carries a charming collection of garden accessories, both large and small, perfect whether you’re looking for a large statement piece or small accent.
Fireplace Specialties carries a variety of grills guaranteed to make Dad happy with models from Weber, Saber, Holland and more. These high-quality cooking machines will bring the neighbors over with the smell of the enticing meals they’ll inspire. And it’s not a party without music, so check out Wright’s Sound Gallery’s collection of outdoor speaker systems. Subtle in looks, the speakers and subwoofers can be installed in a snap and will create the perfect setting for a large party or a romantic evening for two under the stars. Wright’s Sound Gallery also carries outdoor atscreen televisions, perfect for catching the game while enjoying the outdoors.
It’s not hard to turn your home into a relaxing escape for your family. These tips can create an environment that will be enjoyed for years to come.
Kayleigh Plette contributed to this report.
