While Chester County in Pennsylvania is known for having some nasty winters, its mild summers more than make up for the cold. Beautiful Kennett Square has a close-knit community, where neighbors are more than happy to enjoy some drinks after a Little League game, so it’s critical that you have a great space to help your friends and family feel comfortable when the weather’s great, and the conversations are flowing.
Today, let’s take a look at some of the best ways to improve your outdoor space, whether you’re a new homeowner or a long-term resident looking to make something new.
Consider the History of Kennett Square
Much of downtown Kennett Square was placed on the National Historic Register in 1999, a nod to its remarkable history. Originally home to the Lenape Native Americans, it started as a one-square-mile land grant to William Penn and was named after Kennett, a town in Cheshire, England. It’s also called the Mushroom Capital of the World, thanks to its booming mushroom industry that brings these delicious fungi to plates all across America.
While this is all incredibly fascinating and a reason to be proud of your status as a Kennett Square resident, it also means you need to be intentional with your land usage. Check that there are no deed restrictions on your property and that your home is not on the National Historic Register; if it is, ask for clarification before performing any renovations. Even if you do not have these restrictions, do your best to respect the aesthetic of nearby houses by choosing colonial flourishes and native plants.
Start With a Great Deck
A deck is the pièce de résistance of an inviting outdoor haven: it provides a comfortable place to relax in the shade, with room for a table to show off your barbecue skills. There are so many ways you can customize your deck, whether that is adding in a fireplace so that you can enjoy it all year long or including a small water feature to up the zen factor.
When seeking a good builder, start by searching for “deck builder near me,” and then examining the reviews that arise. Ask to see examples of their previous work, and get references whenever possible so that you’re certain that they’re known for their quality construction. Work closely with them to create the ultimate outdoor space with exactly what you need to relax!
Match the Mood With Lanterns
There’s no need to stop the party when the sun sets if you have beautiful lanterns that will light up the night. You can find lanterns with attached bug zappers to ward away pesky insects or ones with color-changing features to improve the ambiance during themed dinners. Solar lanterns are a great option, especially if your deck doesn’t have outlets, such as one that is set further back from the house. They also save energy and come in a variety of adorable shapes that will suit any style.
While tiki torches or open flames are incredibly exciting when you’re having a fun barbecue, fire safety should come foremost, as it can take only one spark to cause a serious fire. Check the clearance of trees and, if you are very set on having torches, have a qualified arborist come to trim back branches. Always keep a fire extinguisher available and ensure that it is recharged by the fire department on a regular basis.
Choose Your Plants Wisely
Foliage is a critical backdrop for your outdoor space, which is why it’s important to be thoughtful with your decisions. Firstly, think about their utilitarian purposes, such as keeping away mosquitoes, like marigolds, or serving as a delicious garnish for a favorite drink, like mint. Flowers with a heady scent, such as heritage roses, will perfume the air and create an unforgettable experience for any visitor.
Even groundcover can add to the special sense of your outdoor space if you decide to forego boring grass and look for low-growing plants such as creeping thyme. Not only does this help protect the soil, but it also releases a truly marvelous fragrance when stepped on; it also feels great underfoot. Visit a garden center and discuss your needs so that helpful plant professionals can assist you in choosing the right option for your light levels, soil conditions, and growing zone. They can also help you plan out a great garden by explaining which plants pair well, how much space you need to prepare for each herb, and any special care you must take to ensure your blooms look good all year.
Lovely Kennett Square is ripe with opportunities for outdoor entertaining; you can craft a space that will have loved ones begging to come over for a few drinks and a board game. Research carefully, ally yourself with good contractors, and consider things like light and scent; before long, you’ll be the talk of the neighborhood.