- America’s large backyards result from the rise of suburban living and the culture of outdoor entertaining.
- Backyards provide a sense of privacy, independence, and an opportunity to enjoy nature.
- They also offer plenty of space for outdoor activities, including gardening, yoga, and sports.
- Maximizing backyard space can be achieved by creating multi-purpose areas and caring for the landscape.
- Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the natural beauty of your backyard – it can inspire you to make the most out of it.
American homes seem to have it all when it comes to outdoor space. Big, sprawling backyards with decked patios, heated swimming pools, and landscaped gardens. It was clear even before the pandemic that Americans place a premium on spending time outdoors. According to a National Association of Home Builders survey, nearly 60% of new single-family homes in the United States today have a patio or a porch.
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The Average Size of American Backyards
American backyards are some of the largest in the world. It’s estimated that the average American backyard is around five acres! Although huge states like Alaska, Texas, and Montana can inflate this.
It’s not just the size of American backyards that are impressive, but they also have some of the most imaginative designs. From luxury swimming pools to outdoor kitchens with top-of-the-line appliances, it’s no wonder Americans love spending time outside in their backyards. Here’s why American backyards are enormous and how to get the best out of them.
The Rise of Suburban Living
The main reason for the prevalence of large backyards in America is the rise of suburban living. In the 1950s and 1960s, millions of Americans moved out of the cities and into more spacious suburbs. Newly built single-family homes in the suburbs gave families more room to spread out and create their outdoor oasis. Large backyards became synonymous with suburban living, and today, they are an essential part of the American dream.
The Culture of Outdoor Entertaining
Americans love to entertain. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a pool party, Americans like to bring friends and family together and enjoy the great outdoors. Large backyards provide ample space for outdoor cooking, lounging, playing games, and socializing. For many Americans, their backyard is an extension of their home, and they take pride in creating a welcoming setting for their guests.
The Importance of Outdoor Activities
Americans are also a very active bunch. There’s a reason why fitness trackers and high-tech exercise equipment are popular in the United States. Whether hiking, cycling, or playing sports, Americans love to stay active and healthy. A big backyard provides the perfect outdoor space for gardening, yoga, and even basketball. Plus, having a private space to exercise is important for many Americans who prefer to avoid gyms or crowded public spaces.
The Value of Privacy and Independence
Large backyards provide a sense of privacy and independence that many Americans crave. Having a quiet, secluded outdoor space is increasingly rare in a world where we’re constantly connected to technology and social media.
A backyard gives homeowners the freedom to disconnect from the world and enjoy their own company or that of their loved ones. Many Americans also value the independence of having a backyard where they can do what they want, when they want, without worrying about disturbing their neighbors or asking permission.
The Appreciation of Nature
Finally, it’s important to note that Americans sincerely appreciate nature. Many Americans enjoy gardening and landscaping; a big backyard provides plenty of space to create a beautiful outdoor space. Whether planting vegetables or flowers or simply enjoying the sound of birds and the smell of fresh air, Americans feel connected to the natural world. A big backyard allows them to bring some of that natural world into their lives.
How to Get the Best Out of Your Backyard
If you have a huge backyard, you’d want to get the best out of it. Here are ways you can do that:
Increase Privacy
One of the things you should consider is increasing privacy. You can do so by building large composite wood fence panels. These panels can help reduce noise and visual distractions from the outside while also providing extra security. Furthermore, it can deter any unwanted visitors.
Create Multi-Purpose Areas
Creating multi-purpose areas in your backyard is a great way to make the most of the space. You can use one section for entertaining, another for relaxing, and a third for gardening or playing sports. This allows you to switch up activities depending on your mood and preferences.
Take Care of Your Landscape
If you want to enjoy your backyard, take care of it. Regular maintenance, such as weeding, mulching, and pruning, is important for keeping the space fresh and inviting. Consider investing in a lawnmower if you don’t already have one. You can also add a few outdoor furniture items to make the space cozy and inviting.
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the natural beauty of your backyard. Take time to appreciate the birds and animals that live in the area and the seasons of growth and change. Spend some time outside daily, even walking and observing the beauty around you. Doing so can help deepen your appreciation for nature and inspire you to make the most of your backyard.