An outdoor living space can transform even the smallest home into an oasis. When done right, it offers both a serene escape and an extension of indoor living areas. However, designing an outdoor living space in Oregon’s rainy climate has…unique challenges. After all, we want a beautiful space with all the creature comforts of the indoors, but it has to be durable enough to withstand the fickle Oregon weather. It’s possible, but it requires thoughtful planning and strategic design. Here, we’ll delve into some essential tips for crafting a resilient and inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed rain or shine.
Start with a Solid Foundation
Whether you’re building a deck or patio, choose flooring materials that are slip-resistant and can withstand moisture. In Oregon, concrete, stone pavers, or composite decking are excellent choices. Or, if you prefer wood, look for something durable and resistant to decay. Fortunately, there are several popular deck materials that fit the bill and come from the Pacific Northwest. Cedar, for example, is naturally resistant to rot and insects. Redwood is sturdy and naturally resistant to insects, decay, warping and splitting. If you’re on a tight budget, consider pressure-treated wood. It needs more upkeep than traditional wood but is budget-friendly and weather-resistant.
Raise the Roof
Regardless of the season, rain is inevitable in Oregon. So, a roof or awning is essential for making an outdoor space usable year-round. After all, a roof offers protection from the elements, but it also helps the space feel like a room. And there are options for almost any space or budget—including a pergola, awning, or even a retractable canopy. Opt for materials that are weather-resistant and durable, such as treated wood, aluminum, or PVC. It’s also important to ensure proper installation to withstand heavy rains and winds.
Create Rooms
If your outdoor living space is large enough, separate it into multiple zones divided by function. Designate a space for relaxing, a space for dining, and a space for cooking. Give the whole area structure, by choosing a single area as a focal point—like a firepit or a living room—and then link the other spaces with walkways or common features. Make sure there is space to navigate between the zones and provide adequate lighting for each zone.
Furnish—But Make it Waterproof
Invest in furniture specifically designed for outdoor use, constructed from materials like teak, aluminum, or resin wicker that can withstand moisture. Opt for cushions and upholstery made from waterproof fabrics or those treated with water-resistant coatings. Sunbrella and other outdoor fabric brands offer a wide range of stylish and durable options. While you’re at it, incorporate storage in a nearby shed (or hidden in benches) to store cushions and other cozy things during extreme weather.
Heat Things Up
Extend the usability of your outdoor space into cooler months by incorporating heating elements such as fire pits, outdoor heaters, or even a built-in fireplace. Illuminate the area with weatherproof lighting fixtures, including string lights, lanterns, or LED pathway lights. Just be sure to check that they are rated for outdoor use and resistant to moisture.
Be Flexible
Design the space with flexibility in mind. Consider movable furniture pieces or modular seating arrangements that can be easily rearranged to accommodate different activities or group sizes. Incorporate multi-functional elements like built-in benches with storage compartments or a dining table that doubles as a game table.
Plan for Privacy
If you live in a densely populated area, consider adding a fence, greenery, or structure to block out traffic, unpleasant views, and prying eyes. For a nature-friendly option, look to fast-growing hedges or trees like boxwood, arborvitae, or holly. A trellis or vertical lattice is another option—especially if you incorporate climbing vines like clematis, hops, star jasmine, or roses. If you don’t want to wait for shrubs or vines to grow, don’t underestimate the effectiveness of umbrellas, curtains, or a shade sail. Large umbrellas with sturdy, adjustable stands offer both privacy and sun protection. Curtains offer seclusion, can be added to small spaces, and can be moved out of the way when necessary.
Add Some Cool Features
According to Zillow, tricked-out backyards are trending right now. What’s more, homes with desirable backyard features—like outdoor TVs, kitchens, and showers—are selling for as much as 3.1% more than expected (or $10,749 on a typical U.S. home). So, add some hot-ticket items to take your outdoor living space to the next level. Think outside the box and consider what features you would use the most. Love watching movies? Create a mini-al fresco movie theater. Do a lot of entertaining? Build an outdoor bar. Dreaming of a spa getaway? Add a private sauna or hot tub.
Get That Greenery
Map out the different microclimates of your yard and plan your landscape accordingly. For example, the areas on the south and west-facing sides of your home are likely to be sunny and dry. Shady spots may stay damp well into spring. Test your soil and read plant labels to choose the best trees, shrubs, and flowers for your unique climate.
Go Native
We are blessed with a Mediterranean-type climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and dry, warm summers. So, Oregon gardens are full of bright colors, lush greenery, aromatic herbs, and sweet-scented blooms like jasmine, lavender, and roses. When planning your landscape, look for native plants that thrive in Oregon’s wet climate, such as ferns, rhododendrons, and Japanese maples. Native plants enhance the beauty of your outdoor space and—bonus points—often require less maintenance than non-native plants.
Make Peace with Wildlife
There are huge benefits to adding pollinator-friendly plants to your yard—as long as you are willing to welcome bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your space. Plant vegetables, flowers, and herbs that attract beneficial bugs, but take steps to eliminate the things that invite pesky pests (like mosquitoes). Dump any standing water from your property and keep water features clean and moving with a bubbler or fountain. Also, rid your yard of debris—like twigs, leaves, and rotting wood—to minimize creepy crawlies like ants, spiders, and beetles from visiting.
Keep Things Party-Ready
Implement a regular maintenance routine to keep your outdoor space looking beautiful and functional—whatever the weather. This will also help deter unwanted visitors like ants, spiders, and mosquitoes. So, regularly pull weeds, deadhead spent flowers, and remove dead or rotting plant debris. Clean your grill and fire pit after every use and wipe down furniture. Your routine may also include scrubbing surfaces or stone periodically and inspecting equipment and furniture for signs of damage. During inclement weather, store cushions and other accessories in a dry area or invest in weatherproof storage containers to protect them.
Designing a year-round outdoor living space in Oregon’s rainy climate requires a combination of practicality, creativity, and resilience. But by incorporating shelter, durable materials, and thoughtful design elements, you can create an inviting oasis that withstands Mother Nature’s mood swings while providing comfort and enjoyment for years to come.
If you need help funding your perfect backyard oasis, consider a Home Equity Master Line. In fact, from now until the end of May, we’re featuring a special 12-month introductory rate, so now is a great time to act. Contact our lending team and we’ll discuss your home equity options.