Outdoor makeover contest Week 5: Muddy paw print

For a very long time, I have dreamed of putting a patio in my backyard so we weren’t constantly dragging in the mud and outdoors as well as to have a pretty place to sit and enjoy the yard. I don’t mind doing all of the yard work myself on our half-acre property and although I consider it wonderful therapy, each year it gets harder to keep up with. I look forward to planning my gardens in spring and getting my hands full of dirt but now with rheumatoid arthritis, it tires me out just thinking about doing it! My family also enjoys building a fire in the fire pit, however, occasionally my husband might bring the portable fire pit over onto the lawn by the back window, cut up a pile of wood (on the grass), build a nice fire, invite a few friends over and watch a ballgame through the windows. All the while the burned embers fall onto the lawn! We also like to barbecue but alas the grill is on the lawn! With the economy the way it is, and me being out of work for quite a while now, having the opportunity to get my yard spruced up would be absolutely amazing.

Transformation by NorthWest Accents and Lighting of Mount Prospect

Budget: $2,000, for lighting and electrical products only

This family of people and “paws” definitely needed a makeover. We turned the porch area into a more intimate space for lounging, and illuminated it with products to complete the outdoor living area look. A paver patio was added as an entertaining area in the yard, accented by a beautiful outdoor dining set and flowering shrubs.

Low maintenance LED path lighting and foliage surrounds the space, adding interest and color. Now this family can relax with friends in their outdoor oasis without worrying about “muddy paws” or unnecessary maintenance.

타 An outdoor ceiling fan under the porch provides air circulation for a more pleasant atmosphere while lounging, while also adding illumination and visual interest.

타 A great way to bring a more intimate look to an outdoor space is to add an outdoor rated floor or table lamp. Sunbrella fabric keeps the shade protected, and a grounded cord allows this to be installed even in damp to wet environments.

타 An outdoor coach light was added next to the doorway to provide illumination and security. Adding a motion sensor would ensure that when the dogs go out at night the light will always be on.

타 LED path lights accent the foliage around the patio, adding functional illumination to the space. The LED components ensure they will last a long time without needing to change light bulbs, and the high quality copper finish will turn an beautiful patina over time.