Landscape

Do-it-yourself improvement of a summer cottage

Improvement of the seasonal dacha

Some city dwellers have a country house, others are thinking about acquiring a summer cottage. Even the owners of comfortable apartments cannot refuse such pleasure as outdoor recreation amidst lush grass and bright flowers. At the cottage you can not only enjoy the birdsong, take a walk in your own garden, get your whole family together at the barbecue, many grow vegetables and fruits here.

A comfortable pastime on the estate is impossible without landscaping a summer cottage. Landscaping is a creative process, it is very laborious, requires financial investments. When drawing up the right project, even on a small piece of land, it is possible to organize an original, attractive, moreover, practical green corner. If we consider large areas of ownership, then the arrangement is limited only by budget and imagination.

Features

It is also possible to refine the territory without big financial and labor costs. The main work on the site can be carried out on their own, using a minimum of inventory. All decorative elements should be not only beautiful, but also functional. For example, elegant high lanterns should fulfill their direct function - to illuminate a large area, and forged shops not only complement the composition, but also be suitable for use.

Country cottage area Flower bed under the window Tree at home Lawn arch Pots of flowers on a pillar

To maximize the use of a summer cottage, it must be properly planned. Before starting the work on registration, it is necessary to determine the purpose of the territory. If the cottage is intended only for growing crops in the garden, does not have enough free space, you should not use the overall available means for upgrading. It is better to focus on well-groomed lawns, paved paths.

Flower path

On a large plot of land there is enough space for a garden, beds and a recreation area. It can be ennobled on a large scale. The territory will have a pleasant pastime if you build a cozy terrace, gazebo, pool.

Shrubs in front of the house Lawn paths Lanterns on the wall on the sides of the door Porch Chairs Shrubs around the house

Preparatory work and detailed planning

Land improvement should begin with putting things in order. To properly plan your actions, you need to get rid of unused things, garbage. The cottage must be cleaned of dried shrubs, hemp, leaves, the remains of building materials, car parts.Many previously uselessly stored materials can be used in the arrangement.

Planning a summer cottage

Before you begin to ennoble the land allotment at home, you should draw up a project with a clear sequence. You can contact a landscape designer or make a plan yourself. Planning should include the following steps:

  • Recognition of the functionality of the cottage. It is necessary to analyze the frequency of visits to a country house. If it is crowded here only on weekends, then it is better to act according to a simplified scheme, to carry out landscaping using unpretentious perennial plants, to erect only summer buildings. With a long stay, from spring to autumn, the cottage can be landscaped with decorative fountains, sculptures, seasonal plants.
  • Determining the exact size of the site. The volume and nature of the ongoing work on arranging the adjacent area will depend on this. A small territory, up to 10 acres, half of which is occupied by buildings and a garden, can be qualitatively improved in a few days. For registration of the allotment of 15-20 acres, much more time, money and physical strength will be required.
  • The choice of stylistic direction. It should be noted that every element of the decor, whether it be a fence, a gate or a gazebo, must be in harmony with the surrounding nature. At the initial stage, you should find out whether symmetry and correct geometric shapes are important. You can choose one specific style or prefer a mixed type of design.
  • Clarification of the need for farm buildings. In any country house, it is difficult to do without a barn, a garage, a summer shower, a toilet, facilities for a water pump, a sawmill and other buildings. If they do not fit into the future design outlined in the project, they must be demolished, rebuilt or moved to another place.

Cypress trees along the fence Chairs in the gazebo Canopy over the yard Porch table and chairs Hearth in the yard

Site Fencing

The direct purpose of the fence is to determine the boundaries of the territory, its protection from outsiders.But besides these functions, it can be an aesthetic decoration of the yard. The inner side of the fence can be decorated in any suitable way, planting weaving plants nearby. Options for garden fencing are diverse. Sheathing can be made of the following types of materials:

  • Metal. This includes welded, forged structures, decking, netting. Any type has excellent performance. Fence sections can be combined with stone, brick;
  • Tree. This group includes a board, lining, picket fence. Natural fencing is an ageless classic. It is easily installed with your own hands without the help of specialists. You can buy ready-made sections or make yourself from unedged, polished beams, boards;
  • Concrete. High-strength, durable structures can be made from ordinary gray slabs or decorative prefabricated elements. With the help of painting, the euro-fence made of concrete can give an original appearance;
  • Brick. A reliable fence protects the site from the wind, but creates a shadow and prevents airing. The specificity of the material opens up wide design possibilities - the choice of masonry pattern, color, a successful combination with stone, metal;
  • Plastic. Most often used for temporary low fences. Decorative fencing can imitate any natural material. More often it is used for zoning, allocation of flower beds, front gardens, game zones;
  • Original solutions. Carry more decorative promise. This includes hedges, wicker fence. The most aesthetic, eco-friendly version of the fence.

Fencing on the siteMaples at the fence The fence around the house Flower garden along the fence Stork in the flowerbed Gabion

Garden paths

One of the main design elements is paths and paths. The success of the project as a whole depends on their correct and successful design. You can create convenient and beautiful moves yourself from available and any improvised materials. Before starting work, you should decide on the type of decor, the need for capital styling, is it possible to do with seasonal, removable material.

Paths on the site

It is mandatory to build permanent paths from the gate to the veranda, porch, from home to utility buildings.It is also necessary to improve the path leading to the garden and the ground between the beds. Created by yourself pass must meet the following requirements:

  1. Wear resistance;
  2. Lack of sharp bends;
  3. The ability to withstand heavy loads;
  4. Sufficient width for easy access, transportation of garden equipment;
  5. Non-slip coating;
  6. Easy to clear of debris and snow.

The type of material, the style of garden paths is determined at the planning stage. The color scheme of the decoration should be in harmony with the overall design, without violating the overall perception of the landscape.

Tile on the lawn Shrubs along the track Porch lantern Trees around the house Shrubs in front of windows

Decoration and landscaping

To achieve a stunning result in the issue of landscaping the local area is possible only subject to certain rules. First of all, you should consider the location of all plants. Compositions should be created taking into account the types of buildings present, decorative elements. When creating a new summer look, it is necessary to provide for the peculiarity of each shrub and tree, the ability of picturesque plant material to change its color, texture, volume.

LandscapingThe path along the bushes Flower bed at the porch Conifers along the fence Juniper in the flowerbed Flower bed with conifers

Flowerbeds and flower beds

Even an inexperienced gardener can create a chic flower garden. Flowerbeds are always in sight, so it is necessary that the planted plants constantly delight summer residents with their beauty. You can achieve all-season flowering if you plant perennial flowers with constant disclosure. When arranging a flower garden, planting plants in the ground, the following rules should be followed:

  • The shape, size, design of the flowerbed should be in harmony with the street elements of the cottage;
  • It is necessary to observe the density of planting flowers, take into account the characteristics of the variety;
  • Position in the ground according to height. In the middle of the flower garden, the highest flowers are placed, along the edges are small;
  • Choose plants that are in harmony by color.

Flowerbeds on the siteThe bridge through the flower garden A tree in a flower bed Cart with flowers Flower pots on a bicycle Flower bed with a cart

Shrubs and lawn

Any household plot will look attractive if you correctly emphasize its advantages - the freshness of greenery, the neat crowns of shrubs.Each lawn must be varied with ornamental plants. Green areas can simply remain decorative areas or be the place for a family picnic.

Shrubs and lawn on the plot

The original design of the lawn will create a unique atmosphere. With its help, it is possible to highlight the geoplastics of the territory, complement the landscape design. Giving it a different shape, you can create interesting shapes, green islands. Small shrubs of the original form (hydrangea, dwarf thuja, spirea) will perfectly complement the beauty of the green carpet.

Planting plants on the lawn follows certain rules. You should not post stunted species, as they merge with the general background and will be inexpressive. Shrubs from 0.5 meters are suitable. They are noticeable from a great distance and are visually perceived as a separate object. You should also take into account the need and features of care for each type of plant. Bushes should not prevent grass mowing and garbage collection.

House with wooden porch Car in the yard Flower bed under the walls of the house Wooden fence in the country Shrubs between the trees

Creating a garden - planting fruit trees

It is necessary to begin the arrangement of the garden with a thorough analysis of climatic conditions and soil. Clayy, sandy land must be provided with fertilizers, peat, chernozem. Trees and varieties should be selected taking into account the climate, local breeding, and productivity. The most successful distribution can be achieved by drawing up a plot of the site with elevations of all buildings, cardinal points. Shaded places around the clock should be immediately deleted. They are best left for the pool, pond.

Garden on the plot

Starting to planting seedlings, you need to determine the number of future trees in the garden. On one hundred square meters, you can place no more than 7 apple trees, cherries, pears. Mature trees will create a shadow for each other, bear little fruit. You can increase their number to 15 pieces, if there is the possibility of periodic pruning of branches. The minimum landing distance is 3 meters.

Planting fruit trees is not recommended in the adjacent area, the distance from the buildings should be at least 5 meters. Otherwise, the leafy roots will damage the foundation, and the branches can break the glass, damage the roof with a strong wind. Also, do not plant crops along the paths, close to the fence.

Slide between the trees Pots of flowers along the path Plot with a brick fence Lawn trees Apple trees in front of the house

Creation of artificial reservoirs

Decorative pond - one of the most striking techniques in the design of the landscape of the cottage. Even in a small area, you can create an original artificial pond. First you need to determine its purpose. It can be a small pond for beauty, decorated with stone sculptures, rates for fish farming or a pool. It can be regular or landscape.

Pond on the site Bridge pond Irises by the pond Pond waterfall Stones around the pond

Build a pond should be in a suitable place for all parameters. It should not be under the scorching sun, as this will contribute to the growth of algae and over time the surface of the pond will turn into green and dirty. Also, do not place bets next to trees, otherwise you will have to constantly clean it from fallen branches and leaves. Waste deposited on the bottom will contribute to decay.

Conifers by the pond

The main problem when creating a pond is to avoid water leaving the ground. Well, if the site already has bets. It can simply be cleaned, ennobled and maintained, periodically adding water. If you decide to build a pond from scratch, you can do this from the most unusual improvised means. The following objects and materials can serve as a basis for a reservoir:

  • Old bathtub (metal, cast-iron);
  • Plastic trough;
  • Special figured capacity;
  • Concrete pouring;
  • Polyethylene film;
  • Natural, decorative stone.

Stones in the water Gazebo by the pond Bridge over the pond Water Lilies in Water Pond with aquatic plants

Buildings, recreation and games area

The location of buildings on the site should be strictly in accordance with applicable building codes. This rule applies to plots of any size. If this item is ignored, problems will arise when they are legalized.The main place in the country is given to a residential building. All other buildings must be at least 10 meters away.

Games and recreation area on the site

All buildings on the site should be aesthetic, clean and in harmony in style with each other. It is better to build them from the same materials. It is appropriate to build a barn, a bathhouse, an outdoor shower and toilet, a gazebo, a garage, a smoking shed, and buildings for animals on the territory of the summer residence.

A comfortable rest in the fresh air will be held with the greatest pleasure, if special sections are organized for this. It can be a barbecue area on a green lawn, a cozy gazebo or a terrace by the house, benches and swings by the pool, a hammock, a sun lounger right in the middle of the garden. Interior items can be any. Also in the country it is appropriate to equip a sports ground, a safe corner for children's games.

Sofa behind the partition Playground on the site Sofa by the hearth Slide at the fence Chairs and table under an umbrella

BBQ area or summer kitchen

Build a summer kitchen in the country can be closed or open type. The choice depends on the frequency of visits to the site, the number of household members and personal preferences of the owners. Designs differ in layout, design. Some have a small canopy with a barbecue oven, while others prefer a higher level - a capital building on a solid foundation with walls and a roof.

Summer kitchen on the plot

The barbecue area in the summer kitchen is mainly made of bricks. It does not have to be roomy; it can be used exclusively for cooking and storing kitchen utensils. The design can be located directly in the open air or in a cozy designer summer kitchen. It is better to have it closer to the house, so as not to waste time transferring dishes and dishes to the dining room.

Canopy over the stove Firewood in Niches TV on the column Tiles on the walls of the summer kitchen Stone yard

Decorative elements and buildings

The decor in the country should be pleasing to the eye, look beautiful and charge for an excellent holiday away from the city bustle. It is necessary to install practical, easy-to-use objects on the site. They must be resistant to the negative effects of the environment.For intermittently operated objects, fun decorations made of the simplest materials are suitable:

  • Fancy fences;
  • Vertical, horizontal flower beds;
  • Wooden benches and carvings;
  • A tall flowerbed in an old piano;
  • Alpine hill;
  • Decorative houses;
  • Artificial well.

Bench at the cottageDecorative fence Vertical flower bed Alpine hill Decorative house Artificial well

Plot lighting

Obligatory elements that need artificial light are: a house adjoining territory, garden alleys, ponds, a children’s, sports grounds, a street toilet and a shower. You can increase the comfort of staying in the territory in the evening by spending one of the following types of lighting:

  • The general. To illuminate the main part of the territory they use wall lamps on brackets, lights on supporting poles;
  • Decorative. The main task is to create a picturesque picture. Use lamps of various shapes, LED-strips;
  • Technical Light is sent to a garage door, a barn, a street toilet, a greenhouse;
  • Security. Lamps are placed around the perimeter, trying to cover all sections of the fence;
  • Marking. Separate areas are distinguished by spot lighting (steps, wicket, benches, paths).

Plot lightingLamps in the flowerbed Garden bench Pool in front of the house Flashlights along the track Backlit seating area

Stylistic design

A well-maintained summer cottage is an amazing place for a relaxing outdoor recreation. Each owner chooses the style of the site and the interior of the house to taste. You can achieve maximum emotional and physical comfort if all the details are in harmony and complement each other.

A great idea for decorating a summer residence for residents of a big city is a rustic style. An important role in this case is played by decorative elements: carts, rockers, wicker fence, straw stuffed animals. Paths can be laid out with wood, gravel, sand.

Rustic style plot

Landscape, natural style - almost untouched green oasis. There are no clear shapes and lines. The garden does not require constant care and cleanliness. The decor is present only from natural materials. The country style device is very similar to the landscape allotment.There is a slight neglect, negligence of landings. Colonial, English styles of landscape design are simple and concise. There are only flowing natural forms.

The main condition for the independent arrangement of the site is the observance of a single style of all buildings and zones. Each design direction is characterized by an individual presentation of natural beauties.

Country Landscape style Colonial English style Loft

Site Improvement Tips

Begin to equip the cottage should be fixing the wishes of all family members and often visiting relatives. The place must be planned for the garden, garden, recreation area, workshop and other sites. The basis of the future project will be the definition of a single starting point. You can create a truly beautiful, comfortable and useful site by listening to the recommendations of specialists:

  • All objects must be connected by a network of tracks;
  • When choosing plants, one should take into account the peculiarity of the soil, topography, the presence of depressions and slopes;
    - Decor elements should be used concisely;
  • Do not oversaturate the earth with a lot of chaotic greenery. Planting of each shrub, tree, grass lawn must be planned. Each flower in the composition is selected by color;
  • Homely buildings, boxes, fence defects can be hidden behind climbing plants.

Pond in front of the houseFlower bed with a lawn Shrubs around a tree Roses in the flower garden Fence Chairs Flower beds in front of the gazebo

Conclusion

For a comfortable stay in the country, the site must be provided with all necessary conditions. You can not ignore any element in the territory. In addition to attractive appearance, the scenery should be functional and safe. All household members will no doubt want to spend time outside the city in a calm atmosphere, landscaping the area with their own hands.



Passion for design turned into work. There is little experience in the architectural bureau.


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