There’s a common refrain in Park City: you move here for the winters, but you stay for the summers. With next to no humidity, crisp mornings, and nearly unlimited sunshine, it’s little wonder the summer months here are just as joyful as those with endless powder.

For many homeowners, maximizing their time outside in the warmer months is critical for a successful summer. Luckily, the ultimate staycation can be had right in your own backyard—quite literally. Here are some of the hottest trends in sprucing up your outdoor living space.

REPLACE GRASS WITH A LITTLE SASS
Consider low-maintenance and drought resistant plants, synthetic lawns, rock gardens and overall skipping the sod. A sustainable design is both economically and environmentally wise. Park City Nursery offers a number
of ideas and options for yards in all shapes and sizes.

NEIGHBORHOOD HARVESTS
You’ve heard of a lemonade stand, but have you ever considered a salad stand? Planting vegetables and fruits and inviting the neighbors to pick as they please offers a communal experience that gets everyone on the block involved. Raised beds can be used if your soil isn’t compatible with what you hope to grow. Depending on sunlight and space, everyone on the street can participate.

BACKYARD BUZZ
Why stop at salad? Homeowners around the world are adding an organic element with beehives and chicken coops. Beekeeping is surprisingly easy and pretty sweet (hello, honey)! But before you invest in chickens, check with your HOA first.

BACK TO YOUR ROOTS
Long before there were pharmaceutical companies, there were plants—the original source for man’s medicine. Landscaping with (legal) plants and herbs that have a medicinal value is on the rise. Ideas include rosemary, an herb known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits; lavender for its ability to promote sleep, boost mood, and treat acute pain; and violets which can reduce headaches and dizziness, off er respiratory relief and can be used as a diuretic.

BRING THE INDOORS OUT
Comfort is key and thanks to a variety of new outdoor furniture options, lounging on the couch is just as easy outside. Christy Sports offers everything for the perfect patio: comfy cushions, fi re pits, grills, dining sets, sectionals, umbrellas, rugs, swings, chairs and more.

AL FRESCO ALL THE WAY
If you’ve got the money and room to spare, dedicated dining and bar areas are all the rage. Consider hiring a professional to help you with layout and furniture configurations, which will maximize your space and keep the flow feng shui.

Local experts at Park City Nursery and Christy Sports are available to provide more ideas and help you customize your outdoor space.

VIAMountain Express Magazine Summer 2019
SOURCEAmy Roberts
Previous articleThe Chervo – House of Deer – Oohs & Aahs Furniture and Design
Next articleSophisticated Interiors: Designing with a Monochromatic Palette