Phase 2 of The House Behind The Trees ~ The downstairs #TeelsBuildaHouse

So we are starting the downstairs ... I HATE to say basement because we had a basement in our old home, where you opened a door and went down stairs separated from anything else. It was a finished basement complete with a bedroom, craft room, family/game room and we spent a lot of time there ~ our oldest son moved down there in jr high and stayed through high school ... until we finished the master suite in the attic then he moved back up to the bedroom floor with his brother and sister.  So here our downstairs is open to the rest of the house, you can see through to the outside from the top of the stairs going down because we have a wall of windows down there as well.  We really didn't plan to have a kiddo down there but since we are having to do a switch-a-roo with rooms (I'll explain later) he is moving home soon and will be downstairs. Anyhoo, our downstairs will house our main family room, our middle sons room, a full bath and kitchenette.  I thought it would be fun ...

Practical Backyard HOW-TO Ideas For Any Yard (regardless of size ans shape)

Pop of Color
When you have a beautiful backyard, there's no need to go overboard with color. But sometimes a pop of color in small doses, like the orange used on this multi-level patio's chairs and umbrellas, is a nice touch. Don't forget the door!

Gather 'Round the Fire
An above-ground fire pit is perfect for a small group to gather around to roast marshmallows or have a conversation. Soft outdoor furniture and a matching patio umbrella make the space even more inviting. Be sure to research local ordinances before installing a fire pit in your backyard.

Repurposed Room
Who said a shed is only for storage? This repurposed shed makes a great outdoor eating area completely protected from the elements. A fresh coat of paint, colorful accessories, and lights strung across the ceiling keep the space light, bright, and welcoming.



Sit it in the Shade
If you're fortunate enough to have a large shade tree in your backyard, consider siting your patio under its canopy. You'll enjoy the cool, shady retreat in the heat of summer when you need a quick break from your gardening chores. You can also plant your favorite shade plants, such as hostas and caladiums, around your patio.

Creative Outdoor Table
There are many creative ways to make an outdoor table using durable materials capable of withstanding the elements. Here, thick glass-block pillars hold up a tabletop made from a sheet of industrial glass. The transparent quality of the table keeps the focus on the beautiful plantings surrounding it.

Natural Patio Walls
Use rock walls to delineate a patio space. Here, straight and curved walls not only define an interesting shape for the patio, they also separate the space from the wooded area of the backyard. Black metal patio furniture was kept simple to keep the focus on the backyard’s natural beauty. You could use planters or hedges as well, just be sure to place them appropriately.
Cozy Corner
Create a cozy corner protected from breezes for a place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or afternoon tea. Add shade with a pergola overhead or you can add an oversized market umbrella on the cheap. Choose durable furniture that withstands the elements.

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