In our increasingly fast-paced and stressful world, finding solace in nature is one of the most important things we can do for our wellbeing. If you feel that the outside world is encroaching into the retreat that your backyard should be, you will want to know how landscaping companies could create a quiet outdoor living space for you in Troy, MI.
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Strategically Placed Walls
Working from the outside in, the process of creating a backyard getaway could begin with privacy. If your neighbors are too close, you may never feel completely isolated and peaceful. A stone wall could help provide that dividing line that you wish were in place and be the first step toward creating a more tranquil setting.
Shelter From Prying Eyes
Suppose the neighbors’ upstairs windows still offer an overly close-up view of your backyard living spaces. In that case, creating an overhead barrier in the form of a pergola or pavilion will provide a sense of shelter and seclusion.
Serene Water Features
Adding moving water to mask the sounds of traffic could also provide some white noise to further infuse your backyard with serenity. Some great choices include a naturalistic boulder-lined waterfall, a small creek, a fountain set into a retaining wall, or a reflecting pond. Depending on your design aesthetic, you may wish to go for a natural look or a sleek modern water feature; either way, it’s typically moving water—not still—that will provide the most tranquility.
One gorgeous way to add the sights and sounds of moving water to your patio is with a water wall. A water wall can be made of smooth glass that water flows down, but the sound could be more amplified by incorporating masonry instead of glass, to create a delightful trickling sound that’s softer than a waterfall. As a bonus, a water wall could serve as a privacy wall next to an outdoor dining or lounging space.
Other sound-reducing techniques include using vegetation as a sound barrier. While vegetation won’t filter all noise, it does help dampen it.
Choice of Materials
Landscape companies carefully consider the materials they use when creating patios and other special outdoor living spaces. Wood could be considered better able to absorb sound than porcelain tile, for example, while the texture of natural or manufactured stone can affect sound differently than smooth walls. Wherever possible, they may recommend the use of weatherproof upholstered furniture with cushions and pillows to absorb sound. Heavy, weather-resistant curtains attached to a pergola could also help dampen sound, as well as provide more privacy.
Other Elements to Consider
If traffic noise is a big problem, a high wall or sound barrier fence will help block the noise. The more solid the wall, the quieter your backyard will be: stone, brick, or stucco-covered concrete tends to be best for blocking sound.
As well, a sound barrier/privacy wall could be transformed into a gorgeous focal point with the addition of a built-in water feature, built-in bench seating, and landscape lighting fixtures. Merging a wall at a right angle with an outdoor fireplace is an opportunity to create an instant warm, cozy nook for gathering with family and friends.
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