[Dossier] A Zen terrace: lots of ideas to relax in the sun
(Photos: © Shutterstock)
JULY 2 2019
Who says return of the beautiful days, often says terrace, swimming pool or veranda. What a pleasure indeed when the mercury goes back to be able to take full advantage of its garden! For many, this green setting must be a space of full relaxation, where the atmosphere is zen and soothing. This obviously involves the layout of your terrace, the choice of materials and furniture, or decorative accessories.
For many of us, the arrival of warmer temperatures also signifies the return of meals on the terrace . Enjoy the sun, lying comfortably in a deckchair, quiet, in a soft atmosphere: the idea is more than appealing.
It is also easy to set up. By choosing your furniture , your materials and your accessories , you will be able without any problem to arrange a Zen terrace in your garden. A real change of scenery for the eyes!
A little corner of paradise
The garden is one of the most important parts of the house. The terrace must be a place for relaxation. No matter how big or small and where you live, it's possible to create a little piece of paradise to enjoy the sun and a little heat.
Even in the city center , in the middle of the urban jungle and in a housing with vis-à-vis, with a little imagination, you will come to forget the traffic and noise around.
Lush vegetation
Plants have an important role to play in the design of a Zen terrace, so let nature speak. A luxuriant vegetation will bring you an intimist side, and sometimes even an exotic touch according to the chosen species. By installing them in strategic places, you can enjoy the view without exposing you to possible curious neighbors.
A double protection, against the vis-à-vis and the noise, but especially a bubble of oxygen. Do not hesitate to abuse it. Note that climbing plants and shrubs with curves particularly enhance the zen side of your outdoors, while flowers bring a note of color.
If you have a big garden already well defined, free to you to strengthen the intimist side by a plant roof composed of climbing plants. Do not hesitate, for your plants and flowers, to bet on more vivid colors.
The cloister to protect itself
Used in addition or as an alternative, the cloister partitions and protects from prying eyes. Some trees or shrubs take time to grow, and the trellis is sometimes the ideal solution. This architectural element, elegant and contemporary at the same time, is made up of superimposable elements and notably structures the space by bringing the appropriate shadow touch.
The larger your terrace and garden, the larger the size of your fence can be important to frame your space and create a "summer house". The smaller trellises can easily accommodate your climbing plants for a greener side. Indulge yourself and install several of various shapes and colors to structure the space.
Behind closed doors
If your preference is for a terrace completely open to the garden, but you want to maintain some privacy , opt for a green roof, a pergola, natural canisses or canvas. This has the advantage of being rolled or unwound depending on the weather and brightness.
All these outdoor shelters also allow you to cover your terrace while allowing the rays of the sun to pass.
Put in the green
The creation of a Zen terrace also depends on the choice of materials for your floor .
If you have the "green" spirit and a reasonably sized terrace, why not opt for artificial turf ? A touch of greenery will not do any harm and will make you feel far from everything.
Back to nature with wood
Nature invites itself on your terrace thanks to the wood. On the ground, this material will bring you warmth and tranquility, while remaining easy to maintain.
A simplicity that has proved its worth and allows you to focus on the vegetation. The gratings are an excellent example: these wooden "slabs" are as easy to install as they are cheap.
| The gratings are as easy to install as they are cheap. |
Brightness with tiles
For a chic and zen terrace, the tiles in light porcelain stoneware are very suitable and bring brightness and cleanliness.
Natural and robust materials are popular when it comes to landscaping a terrace!
Furniture with neutral colors
For an entirely soothing and rather chic atmosphere, it is better to prefer pastel-colored furniture such as white or beige. Also opt for comfortable furniture and rather resistant to weather and weather.
To create a harmony on your terrace, do not hesitate to associate the colors and materials of your decorative objects and your furniture, like rattan for example. If you have installed wood for the floor of your terrace, you can extend this material to your benches or tables for a total woody look.
When it comes to choosing furniture, think above all about your comfort and that of your guests. For example, install a relaxation area with an outdoor sofa, deck chairs, hanging chairs, hammocks, benches or garden beds, sometimes similar to cabins. You can relax, read a book or enjoy the sun: enough to forget your daily worries.
| For a completely soothing and rather chic atmosphere, it is better to focus on pastel-colored furniture. |
Discreet luminaires
Out of the question to undermine the zen atmosphere created by choosing strong and aggressive lights. Opt for light garlands to mix with the vegetation or your pergola, or outdoor lamps more sifted for maximum softness.
Low-cost lantern and lantern designs will provide a warm and soothing look, while LED floor lamps will give your patio the brightness you need.
Two terraces in one
If size allows, you are free to arrange different spaces on one or more levels .
For example, create a dining area on one side and a relaxing corner on the other. You can then choose for each zone different materials, vegetation and furniture.
A water corner
As is often said, water soothes. What's better for your zen space than to add a small pond nearby , if the configuration of your exteriors allows it? Regardless of its dimensions, a water corner will have a relaxing effect. Add a few pebbles from your travels nearby, and you're done!
The most daring can build a pool in extension of their terrace with, why not, a stone wall all around. An invitation to rest and idleness, and a terrace that gives the impression of being on vacation all year.
| Regardless of its dimensions, a water corner will have a relaxing effect. |
Textiles and curtains
Feel free to bet on textiles . For example, you can add some net curtains to enhance intimacy. In this case, prefer light and neutral colors and more natural materials to not darken your terrace.
Little tip for your wallet: you can retrieve a sheet that you no longer use as a veil. You then have the choice between fixing your veiling to a wall support or opt for a veiling on foot. Add to your loungers some cushions for maximum comfort.
A refined decoration
To preserve the Zen character of your terrace, it is not necessary to add an overflow of decoration . Some objects, here and there, will do the trick. The more your decoration is refined, the more the atmosphere of your terrace will feel.
The goal is to clear the mind. No question, therefore, to be burdened with futile objects, go to the essential! Some well-chosen candles will bring an extra touch of warmth to the light garlands.
Also place statuettes of different sizes to enhance the decor. Keep in mind that for a successful zen terrace, the vegetation must be more abundant than the decoration.
Which plants to associate?
Bonzai: typical of Japan, there are varieties for novices.
Bamboo: used as a hedge or isolated, it grows very fast and serves as a screen.
Japan cherry tree : small tree with rounded shape and important flowering.
Azalea: flowering shrub that can measure up to 3 meters, to prefer on the more shaded part of your terrace.
Japanese maple: tree with light foliage, with spring and autumn colors.
Pine: its foliage and its color last all the year.
Lotus: requires little maintenance but a lot of water. To be preferred in ponds or wetlands.
Cactus: simple decoration of maintenance.
Colorful and fragrant flowers: rhododendrons, magnolias, iris ... it's up to you!
For your landscaping and terrace work, ask a qualified craftsman who will sublimate the exteriors of your home.
Find a professional with Editus
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