I know, you don’t often think of your outdoor space as being “cozy,” but if being cozy means it makes you feel good, that’s exactly what your landscaping should create. A cozy space.
Here is Tip #1. Don’t try to do too much too fast. Think of your landscaping as an ongoing, long-term, evolving project.
If you’re anything like me, you like to get things done. Start it, do it, finish it. Wrap it up in a tidy box and leave it. Landscaping isn’t like that at all. Since you are most likely going to be using live plants (hopefully), and since they do not grow overnight, get used to the idea of growing your landscaping as your plants grow.
Tip #2. Do it right the first time. There is nothing more aggravating, and expensive, than having to do a project twice because you didn’t take the time to plan. If drawing works for you, make a sketch of your landscaping project. Draw circles where your plants or shrubs are going to be and label them. Now you have something you can easily change before you start digging.
Tip #3. Don’t be afraid to tackle BIG projects. If you can dream it, you can do it. The beautiful rock garden in this photo took the place of an ugly, weed-covered, nasty-looking area under two big pine trees. The only thing we paid for was the weed block fabric, paving stones, and the plants. Most of the rocks came from a friend’s cottage. They were originally picked from the Lake Huron.
Tip #4. Simple things you already have can help make your space beautiful and cozy. The swing has been repainted several times. It originally hung from the wooden frame in the distance which is now a bird and squirrel feeder.
Tip #5. A simple coat of paint can be a tremendous improvement. Our deck was a dark red-brown color. We were thinking of replacing it with composite which is expensive. We decided to paint it instead. It’s beautiful! Our miniature golden-doodle, Maggie, loves it! Every morning she insists we drink our coffee on the deck. It’s a lovely, cozy space.
Tip #6. Simple groupings draw attention and help create that cozy feeling. Pick some favorite items that add a sense of calm and comfort to the space.
Tip #7. The space is yours. Make it pleasing to you. Try not to compare your space to anything else you’ve seen. Everything in your outdoor space should bring pleasure and comfort to you. Love it.
Oh, and one more thing. Make sure you have lots of help. Maggie watches carefully and she approves.
We are very happy with our cozy outdoor space. It constantly reminds us to slow down, sit, rest, breathe, and enjoy.
It also tells me I need more coffee.
A Coffee State of Mind 
Great read! Thanks for sharing this wonderful information, Dale! It’s really helpful!
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