Outdoor Projects in Denver
Denver’s unique climate, with its abundant sunshine and distinct seasons, offers endless possibilities for outdoor home projects. Whether you're looking to boost curb appeal or create a functional outdoor space, discover some of the top outdoor projects trending in Denver, along with expert tips on timing and essential considerations specific to the Mile High City.
Xeriscaping for a Water-Wise Solution
Denver’s semi-arid climate makes water conservation a priority. Xeriscaping, a landscaping method that uses drought-tolerant plants and reduces water consumption, is growing in popularity. Not only does it align with the city’s push for sustainability, but it also offers a low-maintenance solution for homeowners who want a beautiful yard without the high costs of constant watering.
What to Include in Your Xeriscape:
Native Plants: Think of yucca, lavender, blue grama grass, and Rocky Mountain penstemon. These plants thrive in Denver’s climate and require minimal water.
Hardscaping Elements: Use decorative stones, boulders, and gravel to break up the greenery and create paths. Adding a dry riverbed can also enhance the visual appeal while improving drainage.
When to Start:
Fall or early spring is the best time to install xeriscaping. This ensures plants establish roots before the hot summer months.
Patio & Deck Installations for Expanding Your Living Space
With more people working from home, outdoor living spaces have become a crucial aspect of Denver home projects. Installing or upgrading a deck or patio can offer a comfortable space for relaxation, entertaining, or dining outdoors. Since Denver experiences over 300 days of sunshine a year, creating a comfortable outdoor area that extends your indoor living space to the outside is a wise investment.
Popular Patio and Deck Trends in Denver:
Multi-Level Decks: These add dimension and can separate spaces for different functions, like grilling, dining, and lounging.
Natural Wood and Composite Decking: Both options are durable, but composite is more low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and eco-friendly.
Stone and Paver Patios: Using natural stone like flagstone or local sandstone adds a rustic and organic look to your yard.
When to Start:
Begin in spring to enjoy your new outdoor space through summer and fall.
Outdoor Kitchens and BBQ Areas — A Must for Entertainers
Outdoor kitchens are increasingly popular for homeowners who love to entertain. Denver’s warm, sunny days and cool evenings make it a great place for outdoor gatherings. An outdoor kitchen can range from a simple BBQ grill station to a full-service kitchen complete with a sink, refrigerator, and pizza oven.
What to Include in Your Outdoor Kitchen:
Built-in Grill and Smoker: A must-have for summer BBQs, and Denver’s love of outdoor cooking makes these features especially popular.
Bar Seating and Counter Space: These add functionality and create a social hub where friends and family can gather while you cook.
Fire Features: An outdoor fireplace or fire pit adds warmth and ambiance, extending the usability of your outdoor space into the cooler months.
When to Start:
Spring is the ideal time for outdoor kitchen projects, giving you plenty of time to enjoy it during the summer.
Vertical Gardens for Maximizing Small Spaces
For urban homeowners with limited yard space, vertical gardens are a fantastic way to add greenery without taking up too much room. Denverites love this trend for its efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
What to Plant:
Climbing Plants: Vining plants like clematis, hops, or wisteria grow well in Denver and can cover trellises or fences with vibrant greenery.
Herb Walls: These are great for urban gardening and can include Denver-friendly herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary.
Succulent Walls: Succulents thrive in Denver’s dry climate and can be arranged in a visually stunning way.
When to Start:
Begin planting in the spring for the best growing season.
Irrigation Systems for Smart Watering Solutions
Installing an efficient irrigation system is crucial for maintaining Denver’s outdoor spaces. Whether you have a xeriscape or a traditional lawn, a smart irrigation system can help you save water and keep your plants healthy.
Best Options for Denver Homes:
Drip Irrigation: This is ideal for xeriscaping and gardens, delivering water directly to the roots of plants and reducing water waste.
Smart Sprinkler Systems: These systems use weather data to adjust watering schedules automatically, ensuring you’re not overwatering or underwatering your yard.
When to Start:
Fall is a great time to install an irrigation system so that it’s ready for the following spring.
Outdoor Lighting to Highlight Your Landscape
Denver’s cool evenings are perfect for outdoor activities, and adding the right lighting can create an inviting ambiance in your yard. Outdoor lighting also enhances safety and security.
Lighting Ideas for Denver Yards:
Solar-Powered Path Lights: These are environmentally friendly and provide soft, warm lighting along walkways or gardens.
String Lights: Popular for patios and decks, string lights create a cozy and festive atmosphere.
Uplighting for Trees and Architectural Features: Highlighting large trees or unique architectural elements can add drama and depth to your outdoor space.
When to Start:
Lighting projects can be done anytime but are especially useful to complete in late summer as the days grow shorter.
Seasonal Fire Pits for Cozy Outdoor Heating
Denver’s cool fall and winter nights make fire pits a popular feature. A fire pit creates a gathering space for friends and family, offering warmth and ambiance even during the colder months.
Fire Pit Options:
Natural Gas Fire Pits: These are easy to use and maintain, providing instant warmth with the flip of a switch.
Wood-Burning Fire Pits: A traditional choice that offers a rustic feel and the classic crackle of wood-burning fires.
Portable Fire Pits: Great for flexibility and perfect for smaller spaces, these can be moved around the yard as needed.
When to Start:
Fall is the ideal time to install a fire pit, allowing you to enjoy it as the weather cools down.
Snow-Melt Systems for Walkways and Driveways
Denver winters bring snow, and while it’s beautiful, it can make driveways and walkways treacherous. Installing a snow-melt system underneath your concrete or paver surfaces helps keep these areas free of snow and ice without the need for shoveling or de-icing.
How It Works:
Heated Driveways and Walkways: These systems use electric cables or hydronic tubing to melt snow and ice, making your property safer during the winter months.
When to Start:
Install in late summer or early fall to be ready for the winter snow season.
