As warmer days approach, people are opening up their backyards for the season. However, according to Cambridge Pavers Inc, it's a growing trend for homeowners to turn their outdoor spaces into a year-round destination with creative features that keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summertime. It's an investment that pays off too! According to a 2023 remodeling report from the National Association of Realtors, homeowners recoup almost all the cost (and can even see better resale) when they invest in landscaping and patio features like outdoor kitchens.

We spoke with Cambridge Pavers CEO, Charles H. Gamarekian to get some design inspiration and walk you through the process of building a backyard space that fits your needs.

The backyard featured in this story is located in Morris County, New Jersey. Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec® was used for the project. Monti Landscaping LLC was the contractor for this project. You can visit their site here: https://www.montilandscaping.com/. Monti Landscaping is located in Rockaway, New Jersey.

Cambridge recommends the first step is to ask yourself one crucial question: How do I envision myself using this space?

This is the foundation of your design, so take some time to think about how you plan to enjoy the area. You can create a patio that winds around older trees to add shade, privacy, and beauty to your property. Look for features like a cozy outdoor lounge area with comfortable seating and soft lighting so the yard can be enjoyed into the evening. If you like to entertain, an outdoor dining area and built-in kitchen will make it easy to entertain guests without having to go inside and leave the party.

For those cooler evenings, don’t overlook the warmth and ambiance of a fire pit. A stylish outdoor fire pit can keep you toasty while offering a perfect gathering place for conversation or enjoying a glass of wine with friends.

Creating a beautiful outdoor living space requires both time and money, but the good news is that you don’t have to do everything all at once. Cambridge Pavingstones Inc tells us that customers often plan projects over several years. Cambridge Pavingstones with ArmorTec® is made with eco-friendly raw materials and ultra-fine sand granules. They keep their color even after years of exposure to the elements, according to Cambridge, so newly added patio features look like they've been there since the start.

Once you have a vision for your space, the next step is finding a skilled contractor to bring that vision to life. To make the process easier, Cambridge Pavingstones offers a contractor referral program. Visit their website linked here and fill out your information to be contacted within 72 hours by a certified contractor in your area.

Before choosing a contractor, be sure to review their portfolio and ask for work samples to ensure they have the skills and expertise necessary to create the space you envision. Throughout the process, don’t hesitate to ask questions and communicate your expectations. A good contractor will be more than happy to help and guide you through the design and installation process.

Your contractor can help you plan these phases to ensure that you stay within your budget while still making steady progress toward your dream space. Reputable contractors can come up with creative solutions for drainage issues and can customize Cambridge Pavingstones to fit the needs of your outdoor space.

Now that you’ve established a clear goal for your outdoor oasis, it’s time to get inspired. Start by browsing online resources for ideas and design inspiration. On Cambridge Pavingstones website, you can explore a design gallery filled with real projects from other homeowners. The site also features a DesignScape Visualizer, a tool that allows you to virtually design your outdoor space and experiment with different layouts and styles.

Social media sites are also great places to find inspiration from fellow homeowners and outdoor living enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for landscaping ideas, furniture arrangements, or decor inspiration, these platforms offer a wealth of creative concepts to help you shape your space.

If you’re looking to purchase high-quality outdoor living amenities, such as pavers, seating, or fire pits, Cambridge Pavingstones offers a resource to help you find a dealer near you. Visit their website and click on the “Where to Buy” tab to locate a nearby retailer or distributor.

By selecting top-notch products from trusted brands, you can ensure that your outdoor space is both beautiful and durable, providing you with years of enjoyment.

With careful planning and the right resources, you can create a backyard that offers both beauty and functionality, providing a perfect retreat for all seasons.

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