Page 56 - ESCARPMENT MAGAZINE | Spring 2013

56 Escarpment Magazine Spring 2013
ESCARPMENT HOMES | cheap & cheerful back-yard places...
Shade is an important consideration for any outdoor space. Where I
live, my neighbours all have the same brown umbrella shading their
decks. While the neutral tone helps the large piece blend with the
wooden deck, the sun umbrella is an opportunity to add some colour
to the backyard palette--particularly in areas where space is limited
and repetitive, as it is with condos and townhomes.
When conceptualizing the backyard, equal attention should be paid
to how it will look during the day and night. Lighting is more than illu-
mination--it creates atmosphere. Paper lanterns diffuse light, creating a
soft and inviting glow. Candles are always popular, and large hurri-
cane candles and lanterns will brighten up the night with a touch of
anachronistic charm.
It is only with a few small touches that a space can be transformed into
a place. Space is abstract. It has shape, volume, and size but it lacks
meaning. The moment we invest space with meaning, it becomes a
place, a special or unique spot that has value. A house is a space but
a home is a place filled with stuff and memories. As an extension of the
home, the house’s outdoor space has the potential to be equally im-
portant and meaningful. Transforming an outdoor space into a place
can take minutes or months, but even the addition of a few small
touches can make a big difference and can instantly turn a tired space
into an inviting place that can be enjoyed day and night throughout
most of the year.. |E|
DIY - Luminary bags - classic brown lunch bags will do nicely, fill each with a cup
or two of sand or small stones, then place a “smart candle” (battery operated)
in each bag. Let there be light!
Sunbrella® Triangle shade over the sandbox. Let there be shade.