How to Design a Recreation Area on a Country Plot: 5 Ideas

Any plot should have at least one, and ideally several recreation zones. Important details about organizing such a space were learned from landscape designer Irina Lukyanova.

Irina Lukyanova, Expert Landscape Designer with over 15 years of experience

Patios and Decking

Patios are often located under the same roof as the house. If you want to lie on a lounge chair in the garden, near a water body or pool, plan the installation of decking — a stable platform structure.

Both patios and decking are made from terrace boards — wood-plastic composites that are resistant to moisture and rot, or natural wood, most commonly larch. Wood should always be treated with special impregnation or varnish.

Design: Irina Lukyanova

A canopy or a marque can be installed above the patio or decking — a structure in the form of a roof made from special fabric, which differs from stationary awnings in its mobility and can be folded and stored at any time.

Separate Areas for Rest in the Garden

If your plot has beautiful trees, place benches right around them. Recreation areas fit well into retaining walls and raised flower beds. For paving these areas, natural stone or tiles can be used. They can also be left unpaved, with outdoor furniture placed directly on the lawn.

Design: Irina Lukyanova

Another great idea is to create a recreation zone in the form of 'green sofas', where rolled lawn is laid on compacted ground shaped for comfortable seating. You can sit directly on these 'sofas' or place cushions on them. An excellent spot for children to rest.

Gazebos and Decorative Awnings

Gazebos are often combined into a complex with stationary grills and barbecues. When choosing a location, orient yourself toward the most picturesque view that opens before you. Materials can be chosen based on the style of your house and the overall look of the plot.

Design: Irina Lukyanova

Grill and barbecue zones can be placed not only in combination with gazebos but also near the house or decking in the garden. In addition to portable and stationary grills, summer kitchens are becoming increasingly popular today, featuring a grill, barbecue, small stove or fireplace. These are built from brick or natural stone. For fireplaces with flues, fire-resistant bricks must be used in the fire zone. Paving for such complexes should be done with stone or ceramic granite.

Design: Irina Lukyanova

Areas Around the Fire Pit

This area is best centered around a decorative hearth where fire burns. Decorative hearths are very popular today and come in various forms and constructions. Besides, they also serve as a garden decoration.

The area around the hearth can be clad with natural stone. It is better to place this zone away from the house, separating it with a living fence made of climbing plants or groups of shrubs. Also, note that awnings made from fabric or umbrellas should not be placed near an open fire.