Let’s Take It Outside
Overview
Today's outdoor living spaces are about much more than a patio and barbecue. According to Westrose President, Tom Martino, the most memorable backyards are thoughtfully designed environments that support everyday living and entertaining alike, with each element working together to create a space that feels both beautiful and functional.
After an unusually long and punishing winter, Toronto homeowners are breathing a collective sigh of relief now that summer has finally arrived. As we peel off the layers and head outdoors, many are eager to make the most of every precious moment spent soaking up the sunshine.
Yet a haphazard set-up consisting of a table, a few Muskoka chairs and a barbecue is a far cry from what outdoor spaces have evolved into. No longer an afterthought, today’s backyards have become valuable living spaces that can dramatically enhance the way we relax, entertain and spend time outdoors.
"Most homeowners are looking for more than a beautiful backyard," says Tom Martino, President of Westrose Construction. "They want an outdoor space that functions like an extension of their home, a place where family and friends naturally gather."
Whether you’re hosting summer barbecues to enjoying a quiet al fresco dinner, a well-designed outdoor space can deliver memorable experiences, from morning coffees on the deck to gathering around the fire with friends well into the evening hours.
Think in Zones
Just as good interior design considers how people move through a home, swoon-worthy outdoor entertaining spaces begin with thoughtful planning. Rather than focusing on a single feature, Westrose approaches each project as a collection of interconnected areas designed to support different activities.
"A successful outdoor entertaining space starts with a strong foundation of functional zones," Tom says. "This usually includes areas for dining, lounging, cooking and circulation."
Depending on the property and the family's priorities, those zones may include decks and patios, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, pools, fire features and landscaping that help tie everything together. Lot size, privacy, sun exposure and the home's architecture all influence the final design.
While every backyard is unique, certain elements consistently enhance how homeowners use their outdoor living spaces. Sheltered gathering areas offer refuge from changing weather and help extend the season, while outdoor kitchens and dining areas encourage people to enjoy more time outdoors. Adding fire features naturally helps draw guests together long after sunset.
"Strategic lighting is often overlooked, but it can dramatically improve both ambiance and functionality after sunset," says Tom.
Overhead fixtures in covered spaces provide ambient illumination. Task lighting around outdoor kitchens and bars ensures the space remains functional for evening cooking and cocktail preparation. Accent lighting along pathways, steps and landscape features adds warmth and depth after dark, improving safety and wayfinding while creating a more inviting atmosphere.
Plan for the Big Picture
Outdoor construction projects often involve multiple trades, permits and scheduling considerations, making early planning an important part of the process.
“In our climate, many homeowners begin thinking about outdoor living as winter ends, but the most successful projects are often those planned well in advance,” Tom says.
He also cautions against concentrating too heavily on individual wish-list items without considering how the entire space will function. Shade, storage, lighting and weather protection may not be the first things homeowners think about, but they often make the biggest difference in long-term enjoyment.
Fortunately, creating a dream backyard doesn’t mean every feature has to be completed at once. With the right infrastructure in place, homeowners can prioritize key investments now and add finishing touches over time.
Start With Structure, Then Add Style
With thoughtful planning, outdoor living doesn't have to end when summer does. Features such as fireplaces and fire tables, infrared patio heaters, overhead heating systems allow homeowners to continue enjoying their backyards well into the fall months. When every element works together, the result is a space that invites people to slow down, connect and enjoy the moments that matter most, season after season.
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