Refine Your View

Because not all of us live on multi-acre manicured estates, we often have a view that is less than desirable. Sometimes we focus on what others see — our curb appeal — rather than what we see.

Let’s take a moment to dream about some structures or plantings that add interest and focus in your private viewing spaces. These can be especially important in the winter months when trees have lost their leaves and reveal extra views of your neighbor’s property.

Courtyards are not typical in suburban areas, but they are possible. A courtyard space can be like a private outdoor room for your home. You can look for inspiration from urban courtyards that use a small yard and alley.

A beautiful outdoor building can give you both privacy in your yard and space for work or hobbies. Or, you can build something simpler that draws the eye but is not exactly useful. It can be a couple of chairs or anything that suggests there is something exciting to move toward or focus on (besides your neighbor’s garage).

Story and illustrations by Kayla Oldham Hammitt, a landscape architect, the owner of Firefly Exteriors, and a landscaping instructor at Prosser Career Education Center.