Tips for Planning an Outdoor Living Space You Will Love in Northern Michigan

1. Start by Brainstorming What Matters Most to You

Before you start picking out paver patterns or researching pergolas, take a step back and think about how you want to use the space. Do you love cooking and entertaining? Then an outdoor kitchen, dining area, and maybe even a pizza oven or built-in grill station might top your wish list. Prefer long, quiet evenings around a fire? A cozy fire pit or fireplace with generous seating could become your backyard’s centerpiece. Here are a few guiding questions to ask yourself:

• Do you want space for hosting guests or just your immediate family?
• Will you be using the space mostly during the day or in the evening?
• Are there activities—like gardening, reading, yoga, or games—that you’d love to do outside?
• Having clarity on your priorities early helps ensure every decision—big or small—supports your ideal outdoor lifestyle.

2. Work With What You Already Have

If your home already has a unique architectural style or mature landscaping, use those existing elements as a foundation for your outdoor living design. The best outdoor spaces feel like natural extensions of the home, both in style and in function. For example:

• If your home has clean, modern lines, carry that simplicity into the landscape with sleek hardscape materials and minimalistic planting beds.
• A more rustic or cottage-style home might pair well with natural stone, curved pathways, and lush plantings.

Pay attention to sight lines, flow, and balance. Think of the outdoor space as a room (or rooms) without walls—how will one space lead to the next? The goal is to make the entire space feel connected and intentional, whether you’re looking out a window or walking through the garden.

3. Make Sure There’s Enough Room to Really Enjoy It

One of the most common design mistakes we see is trying to squeeze too many elements into a space that just doesn’t fit them comfortably. This can make even the most beautiful patio feel cramped or awkward. Here are some practical space-planning tips:

• Dining areas: Leave enough room around the table so chairs can be pulled out easily. Ideally, you want 3 feet of clearance on all sides.
• Fire pit zones: Plan for generous seating around the fire—comfortably spaced so everyone can enjoy the warmth without feeling crowded.
• Pathways: Make sure there’s a natural flow through the space and that walkways are wide enough (3–4 feet is a good rule of thumb).

You want your outdoor space to feel open and inviting, not cluttered. That often means making thoughtful choices about what to include—and what to leave out.

4. Choose a Designer Who Listens (and Brings Options)

The right landscape designer doesn’t just bring experience—they bring curiosity, creativity, and respect for your vision. Look for a designer who asks lots of questions, encourages you to dream big, and isn’t afraid to explore different approaches before settling on a final plan. They should be excited to show you a variety of material samples, layout ideas, and planting palettes, not just push their favorite designs. Some tips for finding the right design partner:

• Ask to see real-life examples of plantings and hardscapes—photos are great, but walking through a finished project is even better.
• Don’t hesitate to request physical samples of pavers, stone, or decking materials to compare colors and textures.
• Be open about your style preferences, lifestyle needs, and even your long-term plans for the home.

At TruNorth Landscaping, we believe the best designs happen when homeowners feel heard, involved, and excited every step of the way.

5. Add Texture, Color, and Seasonal Interest

Once the layout is in place, it’s time to think about the details that turn a great design into a place you can’t wait to be. Incorporate a mix of textures and materials—for example, pair warm-toned pavers with smooth stone accents or mix ornamental grasses with structured boxwoods. This layering creates depth and visual interest, helping the space feel lush and inviting. Plant color also plays a key role in mood. Calming greens, soft purples, and creamy whites create a peaceful vibe, while brighter annuals can bring in energy and fun.

Speaking of annuals—they’re a great option if you like to change your look with the seasons or evolve your style over time. Swapping out a few containers or color accents each year is an easy way to refresh your space without a major overhaul.

6. Don’t Forget Lighting, Privacy, and the Finishing Touches

To make your outdoor living space truly usable from morning to night, consider how you’ll light it. Subtle, low-voltage landscape lighting can:

• Highlight pathways and focal points
• Extend your usable hours well into the evening
• Create ambiance without overpowering the natural beauty of the space

Privacy is another important finishing touch. If your property is close to neighbors, consider using strategic plantings, pergolas, trellises, or screens to block views and create a sense of intimacy. Even a few well-placed evergreens or ornamental grasses can make a big difference. Finally, think about the small comforts—outdoor speakers, weatherproof furniture, cozy cushions, or even a place to hang string lights or lanterns. These touches make your outdoor space feel just as welcoming and personal as the inside of your home.

Let’s Create the Outdoor Space You’ve Been Dreaming About

Designing an outdoor living space is more than just a checklist—it’s a chance to create a beautiful, functional area that reflects your lifestyle, your home, and your sense of joy. At TruNorth Landscaping, we take pride in creating outdoor environments that feel custom, effortless, and uniquely yours. Whether you’re starting fresh or working with an existing yard, our team is here to listen, guide, and bring your vision to life with care, craftsmanship, and creativity.

Ready to get started? Let’s talk about what would make your perfect outdoor space.