- Always allow plenty of seating or table rooms for the type of entertaining you do. You also want to consider the need for sun areas, shade areas, or wind protection. It should tie into the access from the house, and not block the view from the house, but rather create an invitation to move outdoors and explore further.

You want to provide good access to the lawn and garden areas. Hence, based on our needs and aesthetics here is where you will decide on the lawn area(s).

- Children's play areas will be added here as needed, and for safety you will want to consider the ability to view this area from the house.

- Pathways and walks will need to be added for access or interest.

Sculptural garden features and colorful plants can be used to create interest and a pleasant atmosphere. You should think through our questionnaire and try to allow for the future, as the needs of the household may change and you will need to be flexible. Consider most hardscape items should still be thought of as permanent additions.

THE SERVICE AREA

This area is usually where you contain the items of delivery and maintenance of the house and landscape. And it usually will coincide with the utility areas of the house, the kitchen, garage and garbage.

Most often this area is screened from the public and private areas. Hence, based on our questionnaire you will plan accordingly and can include the following in this area. Bear in mind that based on space or our needs this needs to be flexible.

Storage buildings Garbage cans
Vehicles, boats, etc. storage Clothes lines
Wood storage Utility meters
Fuel storage Heating /Cooling equipment
Dog kennels, etc.. Delivery area
Vegetable garden (light limitations) Potting shed