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Flooring is so important to a room: it sets the tone; it provides colour and texture; and of course, it acts as a foil for everything else.  To my mind choosing the right flooring is crucial to achieving the look that you want.  Just as important though is the texture and feel of the product, because often we are in direct contact with the floor through our feet.  We all know what it’s like to step on cold, hard tiles on a chilly, wintry morning – I can just imagine that shock of that running through me.  How much nicer to step on something that is natural and warm: wood.

Engineered oak flooring is designed to be tough and durable enough to withstand many years of use without warping or shrinking.  Consisting of a top layer of solid wood with multiple layers of plywood tightly compact together, each engineered wood plank much more stability than solid wood flooring.    This greater stability is what prevents it from warping or shrinking. Once the flooring is down you can’t tell the difference between engineered wood flooring and solid wood flooring.  So you get the look of solid wood with the strength of engineered wood, which has got to be good and it’s a great hard wearing and cost-effective choice if you are looking for alternatives to solid wood flooring.

Due to its layered construction an engineered wood floor is more stable and may not be as affected by changes in the surrounding environment as other flooring products. This dimensional stability means that there’s less need to allow for seasonal movement when installing, so there’s a reduced acclimatization period and this allows most engineered floors to be fitted above underfloor heating.  In fact, an engineered wood floor combined with underfloor heating sounds like the perfect combination and a way of bringing a little everyday luxury into your life.

A small backyard doesn’t mean you are doomed to never entertain. There are plenty of ways to trick the eye into believing your small backyard is much larger than it appears. For a few simple ways to maximise your yard, check out these helpful ideas.

Bring in Some Patio Furniture

When space is at a premium, a smaller outdoor setting is your friend. You can also create the illusion of having more space with minimalist furnishings. Metal settings don’t have to be plain and boring. You can choose from brushed metal or polished materials, just look for a design that contrasts with your surroundings. For inspiration, check out Super A-Mart Australia . Choosing seating that has a slim profile will take up less space in your yard, making it appear bigger.

Add Hanging Pots

Just because you are trying to maximise your outdoor space doesn’t mean you have to give up your favourite plants. Instead, invest in some hanging pots and some hooks to hang them from. Hanging pots free up the space at your feet, as well as giving the plants more access to light. And don’t feel that you have to hang your new pots from the roof – you can attach them to your fencing, handrails on stairs, or even to a wall. If you aren’t ready to commit to drilling holes in a surface like brick, attach some pots to lattice and secure the lattice in an area of the yard that could do with some cover. Fill your new pots with colourful flowers or herbs.

Work in Some Pretty Lights

Lights are a simple way to add colour without going overboard. A few strings of fairy lights overhead turns any backyard into a beautiful spot to relax. That little splash of light is ideal for outdoor dinners in warm weather. If fairy lights aren’t suitable, add some solar lanterns to the edges of your garden bed or around the pathway. They instantly perk up the outdoors and are inexpensive to buy.

Clear Out & Open Up

If your yard is swamped by large growth, trim it back. You will have more natural light, which automatically makes the space bigger. Also avoid the temptation to add a pergola or awning to your backyard. Any structure that stretches overhead will not only cut your natural light out, but will also close the space in and immediately make it feel smaller. Keeping trees and shrubs trimmed back also makes your yard appear instantly tidier.

Bring in Some Pot Plants

The best way to bring in plants without compromising a lot of space is by using tall planters. Tall planters are available in a variety of styles and materials, from brushed silver to rich clay. If you have the space, a pair of tall planters by your doorway, or at the beginning of any path adds symmetry to the overall look. You can then add some fragrance by planting a herb such as lemongrass, or some colour by planting succulents. Add some coloured pebbles around the base of the plant for a mix of texture.

Are you ready to start making over your backyard? What ideas have you had for maximising your yard space?