When you’re looking for the perfect Myrtle Beach home in 2014, you may want to check out just how inviting the outdoor living space is and what it can offer you in the way of relaxation and entertainment.  A recent study from the American Society of Landscape Architects revealed that home buyers in 2014 are searching for designed landscapes that add to the quality of life as well as the value of the property.  If you’re interested in finding an open space that is stylish and environmentally friendly, ask your real estate professional to include some properties that have design elements that add to the livable space of your home.

Some of the top design elements for your outdoor living space include gardens and landscapes, outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas, and pools and spas all enhanced with lighting that adds an interesting ambiance to your outdoor space after dark.  You should think about a home that has a fire pit or outdoor fireplace, grills, and seating areas where you and your guests can engage in lively discussions as you enjoy the evening.

For your landscape and garden areas you’ll want to make them low maintenance areas by choosing the proper plants and water features that require little or minimal care.  If you want to redo the plants that are featured in these areas, be sure to select native South Carolina plants so that they can grow and thrive in the Coastal climate.  You may want to add fountains or water features that provide a soothing sound for your family after a long day at school and work.  Another excellent idea is to choose a home that has an irrigation system or have one installed so that your plants, shrubs, and bushes will be thoroughly watered on a regular basis.

If being outdoors with your family is important to you, make sure that the home you are interested in purchasing has a terrace, patio, or deck on which you can spend quality time. You can incorporate lovely box plants and barrels of flowers in the open spaces to add a splash of color and interest to your private area for relaxing.  It’s a good idea to check with your local green house or plant supplier for species that are easily maintained and those plants that will give you the desired effect for your patio or deck.

The outside lighting that you use in your garden and landscaped area can certainly highlight the special plants that you have or ornamental grasses that sway gently in the breeze.  Besides providing practical lighting for paths and sidewalks, your lighting can emphasize the architectural design of your home as well as the pool area and entertainment spaces that you have.

There’s nothing like spending time in the great outdoors with your family and in 2014, you can easily fall in love with a new home or rekindle the flame with your current one by implementing some of the hot trends for the living space in your own backyard.