Prevent These Mistakes in Your Tulsa Outdoor Living Space Design

Planning to build an outdoor living space at your Tulsa home? These outdoor additions are a great way to create more “livable” space for your home, increase your property value, and provide an ideal spot for entertaining friends and family or just relaxing on the weekends. But before you get started on the project, here are some mistakes toavoid. 

Forgetting to plan. A well-thought-out design plan is a must for any outdoor living project, large or small. Decide what style or theme you want for your Tulsa outdoor space. 

Determine how you and your family will use your outdoor environment. Choose where various shrubs, plants, and trees will go. Decide on a budget for your project. Even if you’re going to build your project one piece at a time, it’s good to have a design plan for the whole project so that in the end, the entire outdoor living space has one complete look. Often, it’s best to hire a Tulsa landscape designer who understands all the nuisances of the various outdoor living elements and can bring all of your ideas and goals together into one design.

“  . . . A beautiful, well-designed landscape costs the same as a poorly designed one. This difference is with the designer. Well-trained landscape designers who work with a large palette of plants and materials as well as a wide range of styles are geared to give you a fine project,” The Landscaping Network noted.

Choosing the wrong plants.  Without a plan, you may be tempted to go to the nursery and buy whatever catches your eye, but you should give much forethought to your choice. How tall will the plant be when it reaches maturity? Will it overcrowd other plants? Although at first you may want to cover every bare spot you have in your garden, you need to give your plants enough room to grow and not overcrowd each other when they’re mature. Also, will the tree you plant block a view or overtake your sidewalk or patio?

What will the plants you choose look like in winter? It may be good to plant some shrubs or trees that have winter interest and that will look good all year like evergreens. It’s also good to choose a color pallet when planning your outdoor living space in Tulsa so flower colors don’t get overwhelming to the viewer or look mismatched.

Also, plant foliage with similar watering and sunlight needs together. This will make watering and maintenance much faster and easier.  

Not thinking about erosion, drainage, and irrigation. Erosion can be devastating to your landscape. Plan ahead by building a retaining wall into the overall design of your outdoor space. Retaining walls are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing if designed correctly. Proper drainage and irrigation can also do much to prevent erosion as well as flooding and other landscaping issues. Make sure you carefully plan out the drainage and irrigation system for your outdoor space before you begin.

Not planning with your home in mind. This might sound strange, but the elements of your outdoor living space – hardscapes in particular – should complement the style and architecture of your home so that the interior flows seamlessly into the exterior. When you look at your Tulsa outdoor living space from inside your home, does the outdoor space seem to be an extension of your home or does it look out of place? Although you may like how the outdoor living space looks when you’re outside, make sure it also looks great from inside your home and that it creates a cohesive theme for your property.

Forgetting the front yard. Although you’re excited about your building your backyard outdoor living space, you can’t overlook your front yard. Curb appeal is priceless. Whether you want to sell your home right now or not, you’ll want to create a welcoming home and landscape for your guests and your family. So in your busy planning and planting, don’tforget to give your front yard some planning too.

Not building big enough. While you don’t want to go overboard and build outdoor elements that are so big that they overpower the space, you also need to plan for their many uses. Patios, for instance, are one area that can be built too small for functionality. It must be big enough, not only for a patio table and chairs, but also for people to walk around the table and chairs comfortably.

This might seem overwhelming, but the Tulsa outdoor living experts at Oklahoma Landscape can help. Our landscape architects are experienced in designing and building outdoor living spaces of all types and sizes. We can create the perfect outdoor space for your family. Whether you want a pool, outdoor kitchen, outdoor fireplace, patio, deck, or just help with your lawn maintenance and planting, we can take care of all your landscaping and landscape design needs.

Perfect Gifts for The Person Who Loves Outdoor Living

Looking for something to give the person who loves the outdoors and outdoor living in Tulsa? From running to biking to just relaxing or entertaining friends in their outdoor living space, many Tulsa area residents love being outside on a nice Oklahoma day. What can you get someone who spends all their free time in the garden or who has an outdoor environment, outdoor kitchen, or fireplace?

Here are a few outdoor living Tulsa gifts . . .

Backyard Movie Theater – Get something for the entire family with this outdoor entertainment amazon.com)

system. Show movies in HD in your own Tulsa outdoor living space. With a flat screen, WiFi Bluray player, and speakers, you can have everything you need to watch a movie or play Xbox or Wii right outside. (

Gardening Book: Fine Foliage – Better Homes & Gardens recommends the book Fine Foliage by Karen Chapman and Christina Salwitz for the gardening enthusiast, which offers guidance on plant combinations and container gardens. (amazon.com)

Motorized Grill Brush – If you have an outdoor kitchen, this motorized grill brush with heavy-duty steam cleaning power may help you save time cleaning. This motorized grill from Brookstone has a built-in mist sprayer that turns to steam on the hot grill to loosen tough grease and then the motor and dual stainless steel brushes scrub for you. For the man who loves to grill, this may be just the gift. (brookstone.com)

Hammock – After you’ve enjoyed grilling in your outdoor kitchen or while your kids play in the pool, relax the afternoon away in this cozy hammock. This Amazonas Naturalesa Brazilian Fabric two-person hammock bed is perfect for enjoying a nice afternoon nap in your Tulsa outdoor living space. (yardenvy.com)

Herb Garden – Does someone you know love fresh herbs? Help them start their own herb garden with Rootcup. Grow herbs or succulents in these small sub-irrigation plants made of durable, BPA-free, food-grade silicone that won’t scratch your countertop. (rootcup.com)

These are just a few of the great gifts you can find for your Tulsa outdoor living enthusiast. Of course, a great gift for the entire family is a complete outdoor environment with a custom pool, outdoor fireplace, and outdoor kitchen.

At Oklahoma Landscape in Tulsa, we can design and build your family the perfect outdoor living space. Call us today at 918.296.9679 for more information.

Entertaining in Your Tulsa Outdoor Environment - Tips for Memorial Day Weekend

Entertaining in your Tulsa outdoor environment this Memorial Day weekend? As the unofficial start of the summer season, many will be starting the grill and relaxing outside with family and friends as they celebrate the holiday. Check out these tips to aid in entertaining in style.

Check to see if your pool is ready! As the start of summer, many will be opening their pool for the first time this season. Make sure your pool is safe, clean, and properly maintained so that everyone can have a enjoyable time in the water. Check out our blog article on pool maintenance and cleaning for tips on how to get it ready for guests.

You bring it, we grill it. Outdoor kitchens. A Tulsa outdoor kitchen makes cooking and entertaining easy and fun. Instead of providing all the hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken or fish, tell guests that if they bring it, you’ll grill it! You’ll have a greater variety of foods at your picnic, and you won’t have to figure out what everyone likes, or worry as much about guests’ dietary restrictions (some could even bring veggies to grill). They’ll have brought what they like and can eat. Then, you just have to provide the sides and drinks.

Easy snacks. A built-in mini fridge is one of the numerous features of an outdoor kitchen that make it perfect for entertaining. With the days starting to warm up in Tulsa, keeping cool beverages close will be essential. The refrigerator in your outdoor kitchen will be ideal for keeping poolside drinks cool as well as fresh fruit and veggies crisp.

Landscape lighting is a necessity. Although the days are getting longer, your get-together will probably linger until after dark, so having landscape lighting in your Tulsa outdoor environment is a must. You could have custom landscape lighting designed for your poolside area or front walkway and landscape, or colorful balloon lanterns in maybe a red, white, and blue pattern.

Help guests stay cool. If you don’t have an outdoor structure such as a covered deck or patio to relax under, remember to provide a shade and fans for your guests to sit under. Pergolas are a great landscape design element that provides some shade while also permitting light through and adding an sophisticated flare to your outdoor living space.

Add some memorable décor. While there is often a patriotic theme with Memorial Day events, you can also subtly include Americana features into your party theme.

“Pick any theme and just incorporate some American pride elements,” the Nest recommends. “A California picnic? Think avocado and sprouts on a flag tablecloth. Or even a Hawaiian luau – just incorporate island native President Obama’s favorite nuts like pistachios and almonds into the menu.”

Activities. While some may enjoy playing sports or just relaxing by the pool, you could have some diverse interactive activities to spice up the day – like a fun photobooth where guests can take home playful photos of themselves to remember the day.

Have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend as you enjoy your Tulsa outdoor living space!

Outdoor Kitchens in Tulsa - 7 Things Every Kitchen Needs

Outdoor kitchens have become a popular outdoor living addition to many Tulsa area homes. If you had an a dream outdoor kitchen, what would it include? Today’s custom Tulsa outdoor kitchens can include almost anything.

What are some popular features of today's outdoor kitchens? We’ve narrowed them down to seven things that every outdoor kitchen needs to entertain in style.

Grill Stations. Every outdoor kitchen will of course need a suitable grilling station. Gas grills with attached side burners allow you to get to cooking right away. Kamado-style grills, epicurious.com noted, are very versatile with a grill, oven, and smoker in one along with a great ability to retain heat. Some outdoor kitchens also have rotisserie grills and convection ovens for even more restaurant-style cooking.

Pizza oven. For delicious restaurant-style pizza at home, a wood-fired pizza oven to accompany your outdoor kitchen is an absolute must. And in addition to cooking great tasting pizzas, these classic ovens bring a Tuscan-style atmosphere to your Tulsa outdoor space.

Swim-up poolside bar. You don't have to travel to a luxury resort. Your own Tulsa pool and outdoor kitchen area can have an elegant and entertaining poolside bar. This beautiful addition is fun for adults and kids alike, and bring the kitchen to the pool with relaxed poolside dining.


 
Mini fridge. Your complete kitchen will rightly need a refrigerator? Stainless steel appliances like mini fridges built-in to your outdoor kitchen area make preparing and cooking outside a breeze.

Outdoor fireplace. A complete Tulsa outdoor environment will need an outdoor fireplace to match the outdoor kitchen area. Imagine relaxing by your outdoor fireplace after a delicious meal prepared in your outdoor kitchen. These outdoor fireplaces can be as elegant or as simple as you’d like them to be and can be custom made to match the décor of your outdoor kitchen and home.

Wine cooler. As part of your top-of-the-line outdoor appliances, don’t forget the handy and elegant wine cooler. Keep all your fine wines ready to serve with a built-in wine cooler. Perfect for entertaining!

Sink and storage areas. Again, every kitchen must have a large enough sink and plenty storage space. And your outdoor kitchen is no different. There are a variety of stainless steel sink options available including those with pull-down faucets for easy cleaning. Adequate storage is also a must for an outdoor kitchen. Continually carrying everything you need like utensils from inside to your outdoor kitchen can be frustrating, so these built-in storage and waste containers make prep and cooking times much shorter and easier.

These are just a few of the many choices you can have when designing and building an outdoor kitchen. The outdoor environment specialists at Oklahoma Landscape in Tulsa can help you choose the right options and features for your outdoor kitchen. They can custom-design and build an outdoor kitchen that will be the ideal outdoor entertaining spot.

Tulsa Outdoor Environments - The Top Outdoor Living Trends of 2014

A great outdoor living space perfect for entertaining is in high demand in the 2014 landscape design world. Like many Tulsa homeowners, people across the nation still want “attractively designed” outdoor environments to create more space for entertaining and relaxation.

The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) recently published its 2014 Residential Landscape Architecture Trends Survey, which reports on the latest demands in landscape design. In rating the expected popularity of various outdoor design elements, residential landscape architects from across the country ranked the category of gardens and landscaped spaces as most popular with a 94.2 percent rating, closely followed by outdoor living spaces like kitchens and entertainment spaces with a 92 percent rating.

“Homeowners know that designed landscapes add value to their lives as well as their property values,” ASLA executive vice president and CEO Nancy Somerville said. “They’re interested in livable, open spaces that are both stylish and earth-friendly.”

According to the ASLA, having a landscape architect skillfully design your outdoor elements and landscaping is one the best investments for your home and can add as much as 15 percent to its value over comparable homes. And, the ASLA noted, the home value literally grows over time while you enjoy your outdoor living space.

What is in popular demand for 2014 among outdoor living features? Outdoor lighting was rated first by 98.3 percent of respondents, followed by seating and dining areas with 97.7 percent, fire pits and fireplaces with 95.4 percent, grills with 94.3 percent and installed seating with 89.6 percent.

What do these results tell us about Tulsa outdoor environment trends for 2014? Outdoor living spaces that are ideal for entertaining are in high demand. Many homeowners would like to spend even more time entertaining or relaxing in their outdoor environment in Tulsa, and they can with the right outdoor lighting design.

Sustainability and low maintenance landscapes were again also in high demand as popular landscape and garden elements for 2014. Native plants were high on the list of eco-friendly design elements along with fountains and ornamental water features as popular landscaping and garden elements. Many are also favoring food and vegetable gardens including orchards and vineyards.

“Decorative water elements – including waterfalls, ornamental pools, and splash pools – were predicted to be in demand for home landscapes (86.1 percent). Spas (76.4 percent) and swimming pools (73.8 percent) are also expected to be popular,” ASLA reported.

Patios, terraces, and decks are high on the list for outdoor structures as are fencing and pergolas. These additions can really become an extension of your home and living space. More and more functionality and customization are being added to these outdoor environments in Tulsa.

Elegant and practical outdoor living spaces will continue to be popular home additions. For more landscape design and outdoor living space ideas, contact the Tulsa landscape architects at Oklahoma Landscape.

Tulsa Hardscapes - Creating Elegant Outdoor Environments

Often we hear the words “hardscape” and “hardscaping” used by Tulsa landscaping companies, but what are hardscapes and how can they be used in your outdoor environment?

Hardscape materials become the basis of a great Tulsa landscape. They are the inanimate, permanent features in your landscape – those made with pavers, stone, stone, wood, or brick. Used to build permanent structures, they help to stabilize your landscape and frequently provide the foundation for an outdoor environment like an outdoor kitchen or fireplace. In a small outdoor living space, hardscaping can provide the extra seating, dining, and cooking prep space you need to stylishly entertain guests.

With an almost infinite variety of shapes, textures, and colors, Tulsa hardscape materials can really set the tone for your Tulsa outdoor environment – from romantically elegant to modern urban designs. These materials can enhance and change the look of you property.

Tulsa Hardscapes such as pavers can easily expand your outdoor space creating a paver patio. These patios can become an addition of the home itself. That’s why it’s vital to consider the architecture and feel of your home when installing hardscapes so that the feel and tone of the hardscape complements that of the home and the rest of the landscape.

Hardscape materials help you visually divide a landscape. A pergola or other outdoor structure can aid in separating an outdoor kitchen or dining area from the rest of the outdoor living space while providing some much-needed shade. Permanent outdoor seating can be built to encircle an outdoor fireplace. Retaining walls can divide various sections of a property, even creating different levels for a landscape. Stone walls add charm and character while providing privacy.


Water features help to create a beautiful focal point for your landscape. Built using a variety of textured hardscape materials, water features bring color and interest to your Tulsa outdoor environment.

And, of course, a walkway or path of hardscape materials like stone or concrete pads kindly welcomes guests to your home or guides them to your backyard.

The Tulsa hardscape experts at Oklahoma Landscape are adept at designing and building the right hardscapes for your landscape to perfectly complement your home, the topography of your land, and how you want to use your outdoor environment.

Outdoor Kitchens in Tulsa - Upscale Summer Entertaining on the Grill

Kids playing in the yard, friends talking over a glass of iced tea, and delicious food on the grill – that’s the classic American summer, right? No summer scene would be complete without grilling outside. We love to be outdoors and cook outdoors when the weather is nice. And families in Tulsa can have all the conveniences of the indoors while they’re outside grilling. Tulsa outdoor kitchens remain a growing trend and for good reason. 

Not only do outdoor kitchens in Tulsa make for awesome ‘staycations’ or the favorite spot for hanging out on the weekends, but these outdoor spaces are a great investment for homeowners and can significantly increase the property value of a home. 

Today’s outdoor kitchens can be as over-the-top or as basic as you would like. These outdoor living spaces can have stainless steel appliances like burners, refrigerators, grills, and sinks. They can have extra storage space bins and custom built-in containers for utensils and other essentials as well as granite countertops. It’s important to include plenty of counter space to afford the cook enough prep space. State-of-the-art grilling and cooking equipment including pizza ovens make outdoor entertaining easy and more enjoyable.   

The outdoor kitchen can be located close to the outdoor living area to keep the person cooking fully involved in the action or separated, depending on your style of entertaining and how you want to utilize the two spaces. Bar seating can be built as part of the outdoor kitchen to allow guests to easily talk and eat with the cook. Often, homeowners have a spacious dining table and comfortable lounge area adjacent to the outdoor kitchen to fully enjoy their meal with friends and family. Placing the kitchen and grilling space near the inside kitchen makes for easy transport of food and other prep materials. 

An elegant pergola or steel arbor may provide a comfortable cover for the outdoor kitchen space and create a more distinct outdoor living space. Next to a custom pool or spa, these outdoor environments provide the definitive space to entertain or just relax. 

The amenities and styles of these outdoor kitchens are almost endless. Their style and theme can coordinate beautifully with the architecture and feel of your home to create one cohesive landscape design.  

So plan now to enjoy the classic American summer even better with a complete Tulsa outdoor kitchen area.

2013 Tulsa Landscape Design Trends - Low-Maintenance Landscapes, Outdoor Fireplaces

When the year comes to an end, we start to think of how the year went. What were some of the highlights? What did we accomplished? What were some of the trends? As for outdoor environments in Tulsa, let’s look at some of the biggest landscape design trends of 2013. Many of these trends will remain important in the 2014 landscaping scene, so Tulsa homeowners can also get ideas for how to renovate their landscapes in the coming year.

Low-Maintenance Landscapes
With green, sustainable living becoming more popular, low-maintenance landscape design is a huge landscaping trend now. Requiring less maintenance and often less water to remain healthy, these landscapes are great for homeowners with a busy schedule. But less maintenance doesn’t have to mean less color. Using native plants can create a more hardy landscape. Native and drought-resistant plants can often reduce your landscape’s need for water and maintenance. Ornamental grasses and succulents are popular, low-maintenance plants that are perfect for adding texture and style to a landscape. Part of low-maintenance landscaping is knowing how to group these plants together in way that will require less maintenance and maximize water conservation. With these landscapes, you can have a beautiful, vibrant Tulsa landscape with minimal upkeep.

Outdoor Environments
Outdoor living areas that become an really extension of your home are continuing to be a popular landscape design element. With stylish and comfortable dining areas and outdoor seating areas like outdoor sofas and tables, Tulsa outdoor environments are becoming more functional, more chic, and more of a complete outdoor living area where homeowners can relax or entertain much like they would in their indoor living room. Durable and trendy outdoor fabrics are making outdoor living much simpler. State-of-the-art outdoor kitchens are making entertaining outside a lot easier and a lot more fun. These outdoor kitchens look much like indoor kitchens with built-in sinks, grills, refrigerators, counter-tops, and more.

Fireplaces and Fire Pits
A popular aspect of many outdoor living areas are fireplaces and fire pits. These stylish outdoor elements are becoming very popular for homeowners, creating a fun and relaxing outdoor space. They can be designed in a variety of shapes and styles to complement almost any landscape. Installed seating adjacent to an outdoor fireplace creates a perfect spot for talking with friends. Lately, adding fire to a water feature has also become more popular, creating a stunning backdrop at night.

Water Features
Speaking of water, adding fire to a water feature is one element of this popular landscaping group. The relaxing sound of trickling water amid a garden can help soothe away the stresses of the day. That’s why decorative water features, whether portable or complete fountains, grottos, or waterfalls have risen in popularity in the landscape design world. These features add to the “green living” movement that has spread around the world, encouraging us to stay healthy in body and mind.

Edible Gardens
With an increased focused on healthy, organic living, many are now choosing to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Whether in complete organic gardens or in container gardens sporadically placed in their outdoor environment, homeowners are growing a feast in their own backyards. Many of these edibles are being used as decorative plants alongside other gardening features, mixing them in with the rest of their garden foliage to produce a beautiful and healthful landscape.

Other landscaping and outdoor trends include adding splashes of vibrant color to outdoor environment elements, moving technology outside with complete entertainment centers, WiFi, and surround sound, as well as living walls of foliage and green roofs.

Tulsa homeowners want to get the most from their outdoor environments and these trendy landscape design elements furnish the practical and aesthetic value needed for the perfect "staycation," while also increasing your property value.

Outdoor Kitchens in Tulsa - Making Hosting Much Easier

Have you ever found it hard to entertain outside because everything you need to cook or grill is inside? This is the quandary many hosts face with their Tulsa outdoor environments. They may have a fire pit or even a swimming pool to entertain guests, but how do they stop from having to run inside numerous times to prepare or cook for their guests?

Tulsa Outdoor Kitchens are the perfect way to make outdoor entertaining a real joy. They can be designed to make entertaining much easier by giving you plenty of  space for essential prepping, cooking, serving, and cleaning. With an outdoor kitchen, you can have everything you need right at your fingertips – outside. Many outdoor kitchen areas come with refrigerators, sinks, grills, burners, and more. Building your Tulsa outdoor kitchen close to your indoor kitchen will help mitigate travel time if you don’t have everything outside or if you would prefer to prepare things inside.

But a vital part of having fun in hosting is being able to chat with your guests. How can you do this while preparing and cooking the food? Outdoor kitchens built with adjacent bar seating areas are perfect for keeping guests in the action and the cook in the party. And, this way, guests can sit and talk with the host while also not being in the way of a busy cook. This bar area also provides extra counter space for prep and cooking.

Having an outdoor living area close to the outdoor kitchen will also make it easier to entertain while preparing a meal. And it makes for an easy transition between cooking and dining. Guests are close enough to interact with the cook while also being able to hang out and relax on their own in a comfortable lounge space.

Really, outdoor kitchens in Tulsa are a great addition for those who love to entertain and enjoy giving their guests the best in food and fun.

Functional Landscape Design in Tulsa - Transforming your Backyard into a Work of Art

Landscape designers in Tulsa transform traditional backyards in cohesive outdoor living spaces. What does that mean and why is it needed? Landscape designers create a theme for properties using plants and hardscapes to tell a story or set a tone for the landscape. This landscape theme makes the landscape more functional, more practical for everyday use.

Instead of allowing plants and grass to grow haphazardly, landscape designers in Tulsa such as Oklahoma Landscape can use the natural elements of a property to enhance not only the landscape but also the home itself, increasing property value and curb appeal. Plants, trees, and shrubs are set in strategic places to lower energy costs, provide shade, reduce irrigation needs, and prevent erosion. The variety of plants and foliage in the landscape and their color can provide serenity and relaxation for a home or business owner. Color therapy can be used in a landscape to evoke certain emotions and enhance the outdoor experience. Gardens can provide the needed relief after a stressful workday to balance emotions and promote well-being. Landscape designers are adept at creating these luxury gardens that invigorate the senses.

Landscape design combines an effective use of plants, or softscapes, with hardscapes or the inanimate features of a landscape such as those made of stone, concrete, wood, or brick. Used in the right combination, these elements provide visual structure, dimension, and character to a landscape, while also adding to the theme or tone of the property. A functional outdoor kitchen in Tulsa with granite countertops provides an ideal entertaining spot for a landscape. An elegant outdoor fireplace offers a romantic focal point to the landscape design. Oklahoma Landscape’s design architects use realistic 3D modeling to show how the finished project will look before landscape development or construction even begins.

And, of course, fundamental to landscape design is good design, planning, and implementation. Tulsa landscape designers know that to create a landscape that is not only visually engaging but also practical to the homeowner’s lifestyle, landscapers must analyze the needs of the homeowner and the landscape itself, and then carefully plan a landscape arrangement to fit those needs. This carefully thought-out design allows for the optimal use of the property and most pleasing visual appearance, creating the most serene environment.

Good landscape design is everything for your Tulsa property. It makes your home or business and their adjoining property a cohesive design element in the community, creating a living work of art for your Tulsa neighborhood. The needs of you as a property owner are of prime importance. If a landscape design is not practical to the home or business owner, then it won’t be used to the full. But if the landscape design creates a compelling theme for your home or business, then you’ll be sure to ‘find yourself outside.’

Tulsa Outdoor Environments - Even Movie Theaters in your Backyard

What’s better than a custom-built Tulsa pool, outdoor kitchen, or outdoor living space? A custom-built pool or outdoor living space with a complete entertainment center! Today many homeowners are adding more entertainment amenities to their Tulsa outdoor environments like televisions, movie theater areas, projection screens, surround sound, and more. Watch the big game with friends outside while you barbecue or throw the ultimate pool party, watching the latest movie as you lounge in the pool.

With all-weather televisions, you can watch the game outside, hosting the premier tailgate party, or play your Xbox or Wii game system in your outdoor living space. Landscape lighting added to your outdoor theater area can help set the tone for your outdoor event or provide romantic lighting for a great date night at home. With high definition video and a powerful surround sound audio, your outdoor enjoyment will be taken to a whole other level. These custom-built entertainment systems give you the nostalgia of a drive-in movie in your own backyard. And with an outdoor entertainment system, you can spend time with family on holidays or host family reunions outside while still enjoying the entertainment you want.

To give added protection from the elements, homeowners can also build a pergola, gazebo, arbor, pavilion, or other outdoor hardscape structure over their outdoor entertainment center. These can be designed as simple or as ornate as you like. Some provide complete shade while others may allow some sunlight to shine through. These outdoor structures offer an ideal way to add cabinet space to your entertainment system as well as other comfort elements like fans to keep those not relaxing in the pool cool and happy.

There are an almost endless array of possibilities with outdoor entertaining. From state-of-the-art outdoor kitchens to cozy outdoor fireplaces to entire outdoor living rooms with movie theaters and stylish seating, Tulsa homeowners can have the staycation of their dreams or entertain with luxury and class with these premier and now more affordable outdoor entertainment centers.

Outdoor Living Trends for 2013 - Tulsa Outdoor Environments Popular

Outdoor environments are increasing in demand, not only in Tulsa, but nationally according to a survey done by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

“American homeowners are increasingly drawn to adding outdoor rooms for entertaining and recreation on their properties,” ASLA reported. “The category of outdoor living spaces, defined as kitchens and entertainment spaces, received a 94.5 percent rating as somewhat or very popular.”

In the Outdoor Living Features category, outdoor fire pits and fireplaces ranked the most popular additions, followed by grills and seating/dining areas. With so many options and features in outdoor environments, it’s no wonder that these have become major aspects of home improvement in recent years. Today, outdoor fireplaces can be custom-designed using a variety of beautiful materials to complement a home, and they can have installed and ornate seating to perfectly enjoy entertaining guests by the fire during the fall and winter months.

Outdoor kitchens in Tulsa can be customized to fit your cooking and entertaining lifestyle with stainless still grills and other appliances like pizza ovens, refrigerators, and more. Many outdoor kitchens have marble countertop bar areas for guests to have additional seating and allow the cook or host to be near guests while watching the grill.

Why are outdoor living spaces becoming so popular?

“In this uncertain economy, homeowners want to get more enjoyment out of their yards,” ASLA Executive Vice President and CEO Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA said. “They want attractive outdoor spaces that are both easy to take care of and sustainable.”

Yes, staycations have become an ideal way to relax and have family fun without the stress and expense of traveling. Many homeowners are adding movie theaters, televisions, and WiFi to their outdoor living space so that they don’t miss a minute of the game or can watch a movie while swimming in their custom pool. These areas are great for children’s parties, business events, or just a weekend with friends.

Decorative water elements like waterfalls, grottos, ornamental pools, and splash pools were also in high demand for home landscapes, ASLA noted, followed by spa features and swimming pools in the Outdoor Recreation Amenities category. Terraces, patios, and decks ranked high as popular Outdoor Structures. The practical and aesthetic value of these structures is evident when you think of entertaining or just relaxing in your backyard. They also add significant value to your home and property, making them a great investment.

Among the trends in outdoor living for 2013 were sustainable and low-maintenance design as the nation continues to increase its awareness on green living. “Americans still prefer such practical yet striking design elements for their gardens as low-maintenance landscapes (93.9 percent),” ASLA said.

Landscaping with sustainable design can include using native or drought-tolerant plants, drip irrigation, permeable paving, reduced lawns, xeriscaping, rooftop gardens, organic gardens, and more. Many people are opting to add vegetable and food gardens including orchards and vineyards to their landscape to help keep their family eating healthy.

As Americans continue to see the need to ‘find yourself outside’ and reconnect with the serenity and beauty of nature, as well as to get the most from their home and landscape, the demand for complete outdoor environments and sustainable living will increase.

Learn more about the Outdoor Living Trends for 2013 at http://www.asla.org/NewsReleaseDetails.aspx?id=38451.

For more information on landscape design including outdoor environments like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pools, and patios for your Tulsa home, visit http://www.oklahomalandscape.com.

Tulsa Outdoor Kitchen Design Ideas for Elegant Outdoor Living

 

Are you thinking about an outdoor kitchen for your Tulsa outdoor environment? Maybe you’ve wondered what you can include in an outdoor kitchen? What design concepts might best fit your entertaining style? We can help.  Our Tulsa outdoor kitchen experts can take your lifestyle, your entertaining style, and today’s hottest outdoor living trends and combine them to design/build the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

For instance, do you love to watch the big game on the weekends? Why miss the game when you’re outside cooking on the grill? Have a flat-screen television installed on a nearby cabinet or hanging from your pergola or roof. Your outdoor kitchen can be as simple or sophisticated as you and your cooking styles need. Having cooking equipment you would not usually have in the house like a pizza oven can add functionality and charm to your outdoor space.


Having enough cabinet and countertop space is often the most overlooked aspect of outdoor kitchens. U-shaped outdoor kitchens are nice for providing additional prep room while also giving guests a chance to sit across from the cook and “be where all the action is” while they’re waiting for dinner, CoastalLiving.com noted. Bar seating adjacent to your outdoor kitchen countertop is a great way to entertain guests or keep kids close by when you’re grilling. Thus, as the cook you can be involved in the party while still watching your food. You can add a water or beer tap and refrigerator to the end of your bar area, giving the guests the opportunity to help themselves without getting in the way of the cook, Houzz.com noted. Just remember to have your grill or burner positioned so as to prevent smoke from moving in the direction of your seating area. A high-powered ventilation hood can be useful in keeping smoke at bay. Make sure you have allow enough room to prep, cook, and serve your gourmet dinner.

When building your outdoor kitchen, remember the visual aspects of your entire outdoor environment. Position your outdoor kitchen in such a way that all guests can still enjoy viewing the pool or garden that accentuates the landscape while they’re enjoying the outdoor kitchen. An attached roof or pergola can keep your dinner plans on schedule even in the event of inclement weather.

With the right lighting, seating, equipment, and design, your outdoor kitchen area can become the focal entertaining point for your entire outdoor environment.

Additional Source: http://www.hgtvremodels.com/outdoors/10-outdoor-kitchens-that-sizzle/pictures/index.html.

Tulsa Outdoor Environments - Outdoor Kitchens, Fireplaces, Pools - Tulsa Landscaping Company Oklahoma Landscape

Tulsa Landscaping Company Oklahoma Landscape is your one source for everything outdoors. From landscape design and lawn care to complete outdoor environment design/build, we are the premier landscaping company in Tulsa. As your landscape professionals, Oklahoma Landscape is the company that will work with you from concept to creation, taking your ideas and building them into luxury outdoor environments. Also serving the Jenks, Bixby, Owasso, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Claremore, Sand Springs, and Sapulpa areas, we are your local Tulsa landscaping company, offering complete lawn care and landscape design services. We offer comprehensive landscaping services including basic lawn care and mowing, weed control and fertilization, luxury garden design, outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, patios, pool design, hardscapes, pavers, irrigation, drainage, and landscape and holiday lighting. As a full-service landscaping company, we love to design living works of art for Tulsa commercial and residential customers. When you want quality, reliability, and innovation, choose the landscaping company that Tulsa has trusted since 1982 – Oklahoma Landscape – built around customer service and a love of landscaping.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

As a professional landscaping company in Tulsa, Oklahoma Landscape is adept at creating luxury gardens, transforming ordinary backyards into relaxing outdoor living spaces, and building environments that add beauty and practical value to your home. Landscape design is the core of what we do. We are the Tulsa landscaping company with a complete team of design/build experts working together to make your dreams become reality, all with less communication issues and a tighter work schedule, to get the job done right. Oklahoma Landscape keeps the big picture in mind – creating sustainable spaces that conserve water and energy, determining the most practical materials to use for the long-term, and designing with our client’s plans for the future in the forefront. From state-of-the-art outdoor kitchens to outdoor fireplaces, pools, water features, and pergolas, we are your local landscaping company, here to help you ‘find yourself outside.’

·         Custom Landscape Design

·         Design/Build Experts

·         Tulsa Outdoor Kitchens, Fireplaces

·         Pergolas, Water Features, and More

IRRIGATION AND DRAINAGE

As a full-service landscaping company in Tulsa, we can provide the custom irrigation and drainage services your landscape needs to thrive. As your local irrigation company, we service all brands of sprinkler systems, diagnosing and repairing any problems in your irrigation system.  With smart controllers and ET weather sensors, we can manage your irrigation and sprinkler system in real-time, conserving water while creating a healthier lawn. We can make sure your irrigation system is winter ready and always running at its peak efficiency during summer with annual service agreements. Proper drainage is vital for your landscape as well as your home. Our drainage specialists can inspect your home and determine the best drainage system for your landscape, whether French drains, tightline drains, waterproofing, or other surface drainage systems.  The Tulsa irrigation and drainage specialists at Oklahoma Landscape can protect your home and keep your landscape looking its best all year.

·         Sprinkler System Repair

·         French Drains

·         Tightline Drains

·         Irrigation System Management