Paving your paradise might actually make it more appealing- especially if you don't exactly have the time to weed and feed your outdoor expanse. That is the case for this Torontonian. The March 2008 edition of the House and Home magazine features this attractive straight forward backyard just bursting with entertaining amenities.  Poured concrete and 6x6 cedar posts make up the bones of this backyard. The custom sailcloth awning can be drawn back to let in the full sun if you wish.

Dark faux rattan furniture comprise the sitting area as well as the dining area for eight. A open gas fireplace acts as a visual partition to separate these two spots.

The greenery is simple but not sparse. As cedars line the back of the property along the fence, as potted plants and 13 un-poured sections provide a home for feathery grasses, lavender and burning bush plants (which require very little maintenance).

Help keep your feathery friends cozy and snug in candy-colored homes made by J Schatz. These ceramic earthenware egg-shaped homes are available in eight fun colours like light aqua, orange peel, and red hot.  The small entry hole of the Egg Bird House is meant for small birds and to help keep out predators, as well, the glossy finish is durable and can handle harsh weather. 

The best way to add a second living room to your home is constructing it without the construction crew, without tear-out of plaster and walls, and without the hassle that could otherwise cloud this lovely season.  I am talking about adding living space to your outdoors! More and more homes are expanding their living quarters to the great outdoors, by adding an outdoor BBQ haven complete with a compact fridge and terra-cotta tiled countertops, or adding a lounge/ sitting area for entertaining or relaxing.  Dining Rooms and party hotspots are other options and there are so many great ideas out there!  Take the Bali Rustic Teak Sectional by Pottery Barn; it would be a sensational gathering spot for family lounging.  The turned legs are a great detail and add more formality.

Viking has your outdoor cooking area covered whether you are grilling Kobe or hotdogs. Viking has an entire section devoted to outdoor kitchens; including ventilation, refreshment centers, refrigeration, or stainless steel cabinets.

Think about when you will be using your outdoor space, if you work late and usually enjoy your backyard in the evening hours, or if you like to entertain outdoors, than you should cater to those needs.  Set up fabulous ambient lighting in walk ways, spotlights pointed upwards to dramatically light up your columns or trees, and comfy seats near an outdoor fireplace or bonfire. 

If you live near a busy area where traffic can be heard, opt for a pond with a fountain or a water feature that can mask those sounds and create a relaxing atmosphere.  Most of all take a look at your space, whatever you have (even if it is a balcony; which could be turned into a fabulous get away), and think about your hobbies and what you’d like to get your enjoyment out of.  My husband and I spent the sunny weekend hauling flat flagstone rocks to make a secluded nook beside our raised stone deck for a spot for reading and relaxing.  It took us a year to realize the little area existed and how it would be perfect! Take a look in your back yard, you may be surprised by all of your options.