When homeowners start thinking about upgrading their outdoor spaces, one of the first questions they ask is: Which improvements actually add value to my home? While curb appeal is important, today’s buyers (and homeowners) are looking for outdoor spaces that function as true extensions of the home.
The right outdoor features don’t just boost resale value—they increase everyday enjoyment, improve functionality, and create memorable spaces for gathering, relaxing, and entertaining. Below, we break down the outdoor features that consistently add the most value and explain why thoughtful design matters just as much as the features themselves.
Full Outdoor Living Spaces: The Biggest Value Driver
Outdoor living spaces offer some of the highest returns because they effectively add usable square footage without the cost of a home addition. A well-designed outdoor living area feels intentional, comfortable, and connected to the home.
These spaces often include:
Defined areas for dining, lounging, and entertaining
Integrated landscaping and hardscaping
Smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces
Rather than adding individual features over time, a professionally planned outdoor living space brings everything together into one cohesive design—making the space more functional and visually appealing- and Outdoor Innovations offers 3-D design services that can help you envision your space!
Patios, walkways, and custom stonework form the backbone of many outdoor upgrades. These features improve how homeowners move through their property while dramatically enhancing curb appeal.
High-value elements include:
Custom stone patios designed for durability and style
Walkways that guide traffic and connect outdoor areas
Driveways that elevate first impressions
Quality materials and expert installation ensure these features hold up over time, making them a long-term investment rather than a short-term upgrade.
Outdoor Kitchens & Built-In Appliances: High Buyer Appeal
Outdoor kitchens continue to be one of the most sought-after backyard features. They transform outdoor spaces into entertainment hubs and encourage homeowners to spend more time outside.
Popular outdoor kitchen elements include:
Built-in grills and cooking appliances
Prep and serving counter space
Refrigeration and storage
Trash receptacles
When integrated into a larger outdoor living design, outdoor kitchens add convenience, luxury, and strong resale appeal.
Fire Features: Extending Outdoor Use
Fire features add both function and ambiance, allowing homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces well into spring and fall. They also create natural gathering spots that enhance the overall experience of the yard.
Examples include:
Fire pits for casual seating areas
Outdoor fireplaces as focal points
Built-in seating surrounding fire features
Fire features bring warmth, visual interest, and emotional appeal—qualities that resonate strongly with future buyers.
Adding overhead structures helps define outdoor rooms and improves comfort during hot or unpredictable weather. These features make outdoor spaces more usable throughout the day and across seasons.
Key options include:
Pergolas for partial shade and architectural interest
Pavilions for full coverage and protection
Gazebos for enclosed or semi-enclosed gathering spaces
Each option offers a different balance of shade, structure, and style, allowing homeowners to tailor their outdoor environment to their needs.
Outdoor Lighting: Small Upgrade, Big Impact
Outdoor lighting is one of the most cost-effective ways to add value. It improves safety, highlights landscape features, and dramatically enhances nighttime curb appeal.
Effective outdoor lighting often includes:
Path and walkway lighting
Accent lighting for landscaping and stone features
Ambient lighting for outdoor living areas
Thoughtful lighting design ensures outdoor spaces are just as inviting after dark as they are during the day.
Water Features: Luxury and Tranquility
Custom Water Feature
Water features elevate outdoor spaces by adding sound, movement, and a sense of calm. They create a retreat-like atmosphere that enhances both enjoyment and perceived value.
Examples include:
Waterfalls
Fountains
Reflecting or pond-style features
Custom water features
When incorporated into a broader landscape design, water features can turn an ordinary yard into a peaceful escape.
Poolscaping: Creating a Resort-Style Experience
A pool alone is a feature—but poolscaping is what creates lasting value. The surrounding landscape, hardscaping, and layout determine how functional and appealing the pool area truly is.
High-value poolscaping focuses on:
Flow between the pool and other outdoor spaces
Safety and accessibility
Visual cohesion with the rest of the landscape
Well-designed poolscapes feel intentional and luxurious, similar to a private resort.
The Bottom Line: Design Creates the Most Value
The outdoor features that increase value are those that are thoughtfully planned and professionally designed. Cohesion, functionality, and long-term durability matter just as much as individual upgrades.
Whether you’re considering a single enhancement or a complete backyard transformation, starting with a comprehensive design ensures your investment delivers both immediate enjoyment and lasting value.
Planning ahead—especially before the busy spring season—allows homeowners to make informed decisions and secure their spot on the project calendar. Contact Outdoor Innovations today to discuss how we can help create the design you want for your home!
A Stunning Backyard Transformation
Your backyard is more than just an outdoor space; it’s an extension of your home, a place where memories are made, and relaxation is embraced. However, sometimes, the potential of this space lies dormant, waiting to be unveiled through a transformative makeover. In this blog, we take you through an awe-inspiring journey of a backyard transformation that turned a mundane outdoor area into a captivating oasis. From the removal of old structures to the addition of new elements, every step of this makeover showcases the power of creativity, design, and vision.
Before and After: A Visual Delight:
The journey begins with a stunning visual comparison of the backyard before and after the transformation. The removal of the pergola, deck, and patio marked the first step towards a fresh canvas, setting the stage for a complete overhaul. The contrast between the old and the new is truly remarkable, highlighting the potential that was waiting to be unlocked.
Creating Elevated Spaces: The Kodah Wall and Grill Island:
One of the standout features of this makeover is the incorporation of a High Format Kodah wall. This ingenious addition not only frames the new upper patio but also adds a touch of sophistication. The Kodah wall becomes a backdrop for the focal point of outdoor culinary delight – the Grill Island. Complete with a 36” Coyote Gas Grill, access doors, and a trash compartment, this island redefines outdoor cooking. It’s a space where flavors sizzle and conversations flow.
Privacy and Purpose: Installing Fences and Concealment:
A functional backyard is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a seamless blend of beauty and purpose. The installation of a privacy fence serves a dual purpose: hiding unsightly elements like air conditioners, trash bins, and generators, while also creating a dedicated storage space. This transformation shows how strategic design can turn potential eyesores into hidden treasures.
Paving the Pathways to Elegance: Montrose by High Format Pavers:
The journey from the driveway to the patio becomes a graceful stroll with the installation of Montrose by High Format large format pavers. These pavers, with crushed granite between them, redefine the very concept of outdoor pathways. The result is not just a way to get from point A to point B, but a visual delight that enhances the overall aesthetics of the space.
Redefining Comfort: The Country Lane Vinyl “A” Frame Pavilion:
Imagine a space where you can unwind, entertain, and simply be. The addition of a Country Lane 14 x 18 Rectangle vinyl “A” frame pavilion does just that. It’s a haven that offers shade on sunny days and shelter during light drizzles. With careful design and placement, this pavilion seamlessly integrates with the landscape, becoming a natural gathering point.
Entertainment Meets Refreshment: The TV Wall and Serving Area:
In the era of outdoor entertainment, a TV wall becomes an essential element. The use of Unilock Lineo creates a modern backdrop, perfectly complementing the outdoor entertainment setup. This area isn’t just about watching your favorite shows; it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones. The inclusion of a Coyote drop-in cooler and an outdoor refrigerator ensures that refreshments are always within arm’s reach.
Warming the Nights: The Gas Round Firepit:
As the sun sets, the ambiance changes, but the charm remains. The gas round firepit, built using High Format Belvedere stone and a Warming Trends 180K BTU cross fire burner, becomes the heart of evening gatherings. It’s where stories are shared, laughter echoes, and bonds are strengthened.
Elegance and Functionality: Unilock Beacon Hill Flagstone Pavers:
The upper and lower patio areas are graced with the timeless beauty of Unilock Beacon Hill flagstone pavers. These pavers not only enhance the aesthetics but also provide a durable and functional foundation for outdoor living. It’s a harmonious blend of elegance and purpose.
Nature’s Touch: The Final Flourish of Landscaping:
No backyard transformation is complete without a touch of nature’s artistry. The addition of carefully selected landscaping elements enhances the overall beauty of the space. Lush greens, vibrant blooms, and thoughtful placement of foliage bring life to every corner.
Illuminating Evenings: LED Lighting System:
As the day transitions into night, the magic doesn’t dim; it evolves. The installation of an LED lighting system around the patio and inside the pavilion creates an enchanting atmosphere. It’s a symphony of light and shadows, turning the backyard into a captivating stage for relaxation and celebration.
Conclusion: A Masterpiece Unveiled:
The journey from a mundane backyard to a captivating oasis is a testament to the power of vision, design, and execution. Every element of this transformation, from the Kodah wall to the LED lighting, showcases the artistry that can be achieved with careful planning and a touch of creativity. This backyard makeover is not just a physical transformation; it’s an invitation to experience the joy of outdoor living at its finest. It’s a reminder that the potential of your space is limited only by your imagination.
Imagine your change … and let Outdoor Innovations help you bring it to life! Contact us today to discuss your ideas for a backyard transformation!
Your Ultimate Guide to a Successful Backyard Landscaping Project: Addressing the Key Questions
Creating a picturesque and functional backyard oasis is a dream shared by many homeowners. Whether it’s a tranquil retreat for relaxation or an inviting space for entertaining guests, a well-designed backyard can significantly enhance the overall appeal and value of a property. However, before embarking on your backyard landscaping project, it’s essential to address some crucial questions that will guide you towards success. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most common questions people ask when undertaking a new backyard landscaping project.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Every landscaping project begins with a budget. Determine how much you are willing to invest in the transformation of your backyard. Understanding your financial constraints will help you prioritize elements and choose suitable materials.
Defining the Purpose
Ask yourself what purpose your backyard will serve. Is it meant for relaxation, entertaining guests, gardening, or a mix of these? Clarifying the primary purpose will direct your design choices and layout decisions.
Professional Landscaper vs. DIY
Consider whether you have the time, expertise, and resources to tackle the landscaping project yourself or if hiring a professional landscaper is the best option. A professional can offer expert advice, save time, and ensure a polished outcome.
Choosing Desired Features
Decide on the features you wish to include in your backyard. Options may range from a patio or deck to a fire pit,water feature, or even an outdoor kitchen. Each feature will contribute to the overall ambiance and functionality of the space. We utilize NatureKast kitchen cabinetry, learn more here.
Creating a Low-Maintenance Landscape
If you prefer a low-maintenance backyard, focus on drought-resistant plants, native species, and hardscape materials that require minimal upkeep. Automated irrigation systems can further simplify maintenance.
Optimizing Privacy
Privacy is crucial for a relaxing backyard. Evaluate fencing options, hedges, or strategic plantings to create secluded and intimate areas.
Choosing the Right Landscaping Materials
We can help you select the appropriate materials for paths, decks, mulching, and retaining walls based on their durability, aesthetics, and compatibility with your design vision.
Planning the Project Timeline
Understand the expected timeline for your landscaping project to account for any special events or gatherings that may be impacted during construction. We can work with you to set up your landscaping project around your needs!
Addressing Site-Specific Challenges
Assess your backyard for any unique challenges, such as poor soil quality, drainage issues, or existing structures that need consideration during planning.
Incorporating Rain Gardens and Composting
Explore the possibility of integrating rain gardens to manage stormwater runoff and composting to recycle organic waste, contributing to a greener backyard. We can discuss adding these type of elements to your project.
Using 3-D Technology for your Landscaping Project
Embarking on a backyard landscaping project is an exciting opportunity to create an outdoor space that reflects your personal style and meets your needs. At Outdoor Innovations we offer 3-D design to help bring your project to life.
Using 3-D planning for a backyard landscaping project revolutionizes the design process, offering a dynamic and immersive experience that enhances creativity and precision. By leveraging advanced technology, we can visualize the proposed layout, hardscapes, and vegetation in a realistic three-dimensional environment. This interactive approach allows for seamless modifications, ensuring every detail is meticulously refined before construction begins. From experimenting with various plant combinations to simulating lighting effects and material textures, 3-D planning enables home and business owners to make informed decisions, resulting in a breathtaking landscaping transformation that perfectly aligns with your vision and preferences.
Contact us today to learn more about 3-D design, and get your landscaping project started today!
Your Fall Checklist: Set Clocks Back & Install Outdoor LED Lighting
The time has come to set our clocks back again once more. You know what that means! The days are going to be short, and the dark nights are going to be long. While you make your mental checklist that includes remembering to set your clocks back, winterize your vehicle, and gather up firewood, you may also want to consider your outdoor LED lighting situation!
Outdoor LED lighting offers a huge amount of benefits to your home! This includes the ever so appropriate advantage of added security for those long dark nights that come with fall and winter. At Outdoor Innovations, we pride ourselves at creating beautifully lit outdoor landscapes, while giving you added peace of mind with the extra security LEDs provide. We use products manufactured by Dauer Manufacturing that are durable & gorgeous.
Let’s talk about the benefits of outdoor LED lighting.
LED’s Provide Energy Efficiency
With there being a lot of talk about higher utility bills this year, every penny saved is a good thing. When you illuminate your yard and home with outdoor LED lighting, you get the added bonus of energy efficiency. Unlike other types of lighting, LED lights use about 90% less energy and last approximately 25 times longer!
Outdoor LEDs Offer Directionality
By design, LED lights offer a precision look because they emit light in a specific direction. In this way, they are perfect for both enhancing the areas of your yard that you want to feature, and for shining light on areas you wish to protect around your home. A win-win in our book!
Who Does Not Love Low-Maintenance?
Outdoor LED lighting offers several features that make them low-maintenance. This means less work for you! These features include:
Durability-the materials that LED lights are manufactured with are strong and built to withstand outdoor weather elements.
Long-lasting-the lighting elements themselves last up to 25 times longer that standard lighting.
Safe-LED lights emit far less heat that standard lights making them safer, and they do not have a filament that will burn out.
Illuminate Your Yard with Safety
A well lit yard is not only nice to look at, but it also serves as a deterrent that can prevent property crimes. Adding outdoor LED lighting around your home will help keep you and your family safe, and give you peace of mind.
Ways that Outdoor Lighting Can Be Used
The options are quite endless when you consider lighting your outdoor spaces. You can accent:
Outdoor Innovations is your Quad Cities Outdoor LED Lighting Source
There is nothing that we would love more than to provide you and your family with the benefits of outdoor lighting. At Outdoor Innovations we can help you design a lighting plan for your home and its surroundings that not only makes your yard more attractive, but will aid you in the coming colder months of the year. There are so many options to choose from that will fit your style. Contact us today to get started with a plan for your home.
Quality Landscaping Design from Pavilions to Fire Features
Outdoor Innovations Goal? To Never Come Back.
When you are considering adding new landscaping to your backyard, one important consideration, if you plan to live in your home for the long haul: “How long is my new landscaping design going to last?” When the project is done, will the hardscaping be uneven in a few years? Will my fire pit run season after season? Are my outdoor shelter structures going to hold up? These are all things to think about when selecting a contractor for landscaping design that you plan to work with.
At Outdoor Innovations, our goal is rather simple. We plan to “never come back” unless it is to visit! As your landscaping contractor, we plan to complete your landscaping project with the highest quality products and equally exceptional work. Your backyard retreat is meant to last the lifetime of your home with first rate products such as pavilions from Country Lane, or CROSSFIRE® Burners made from brass for our outdoor fire features. Let’s take a look at a recent project that shows you some of that great quality!
A Unique Outdoor Structure
In our latest project, we created a unique backyard retreat that will take this family from late summer into fall with a Country Lane custom 14’x 18′ A frame Vinyl pavilion and 16 x 16 Traditional Vinyl Pergola. Coupling versatility while fitting into a budget, Country Lane offers many accessories including:
Upgrading post sizes and shapes
Cupolas
EZShade curtains
Villas
Aside from its beauty, this piece is built to last. This shelter structure can withstand winds of up to 140 mph, and up to 45 pounds per square foot snow load. This means that this family can enjoy the outdoors with this lovely pavilion/pergola combo for years and years to come!
With Our Fire Features Brass Makes the Difference
We often hear from people who have old fire features that the parts have rusted or corroded. At Outdoor Innovations we work with Warming Trends, providing some of the newest technology available in fire features.
This project boasts Warming Trends 250,000 BTU 50 inch CROSSFIRE® Linear Brass Burner. This means that this fire feature will have a taller, more robust burning flame that closely resembles a natural wood burning fire. With parts made of brass that will not rust or corrode, this fire feature will provide beautiful warmth for this family, with a lifetime warranty because we are so confident in this technology!
Other High Quality Features for this Project
We really enjoyed this backyard landscaping project! In addition to the pavilion and pergola combination, and the top-notch fire pit, this landscaping project also included:
If you are considering creating a backyard oasis for your family, choose quality by choosing Outdoor Innovations. One of our main goals in completing your landscaping project is to do everything right the first time with longevity in mind. We want your family to enjoy your outdoor living area for years and years to come with the peace of mind that everything is made and constructed by our team to last.
Need landscaping ideas, or want to discuss your dream landscaping design? Contact us today!
The Quad City Botanical Garden’s New Ability Garden
A Project Inspired by a Legacy Dedicated to Accessibility for Those with Mobility Challenges
The team at Outdoor Innovations, including Ken and Barbara Hoffman, are so grateful to have been part of this most recent project. The construction of the Quad Cities Botanical Center’s new Ability Garden was such a rewarding experience! This new, sensory-friendly garden was specifically built and designed for people experiencing mobility challenges, such as being in a wheelchair, or on crutches.
The new ability garden was constructed by Outdoor Innovations, and will remain firmly planted in our memories for years to come. This project was directly inspired by those who have or are experiencing difficulties with mobility that affect their ability to get out and enjoy simple acts such as gardening.
Built with the Sensory Experience in Mind
Ken and the team at Outdoor Innovations really made took this special design and made it their own, bringing the type of craftsmanship that only Outdoor Innovations can provide. The garden has many, sensory-friendly, and universally accessible features:
Octagon Cedar Gazebo: The 16ft Octagon Cedar Gazebo with cedar shingles and cupola has exposed double rafters and tongue and groove ceiling from Country Lane and was built by Outdoor Innovations. Nestled under the gazebo benches were placed to enjoy the shade.
The Plant Beds: For these plant beds, designed and built with the sensory experience in mind, we used Rosetta Belvedere and Rosetta Outcropping. This is a stone that is made for the sense of touch, with a beautiful, natural look and feel. The plant beds were designed and built for those of all different heights and types of mobility to enjoy.
Lighting: Coming soon, these gardens will also be lit with stunning LED lighting. Both the gazebo and the plant beds will have lighting installed, to help the numerous visitors to the QCBC (Quad Cities Botanical Center) enjoy the Ability Garden well into the evening, and heightening the sensory experience!
Soft and Natural Stone Bench: Built from the same materials as the plant beds, there is are distinctive stone benches that were added to enhance the natural flow as you travel through the ability garden, and a resting place for those who need it.
Stop By and Visit the Ability Garden at QCBC
As it says on the sign, “The Ability Garden is designed to improve accessibility to garden spaces and provide gardening opportunities to more people” At Outdoor Innovations, we understand the importance and tranquility that gardening, and garden spaces can provide. We encourage everyone in the Quad Cities to venture out to the new gardens.
Take in the sensory friendly plants, the soft natural stone, the wide pathways, and elevated garden beds that this space has to offer! We would like to thank everyone who made this amazing and beneficial project possible, it will be one that remains near and dear to our hearts.
We would love to hear about your visit to the Ability Garden at the QCBC! Visit us on Facebook and tell us about your experience! If you have a project you would like to discuss contact us today.
8 Ideas for Your Outdoor Entertainment Area
Job Feature: A Rustic Outdoor Getaway Perfect for Entertaining
The landscape designers at Outdoor Innovations are at it again this summer, creating outdoor entertainment areas that change the way people do entertainment! One recent project that was just completed features 8 great ideas for your outdoor entertainment area, that may serve as inspiration for your backyard. Do you love the idea of settling in to a good movie…but under the stars? Perhaps the idea of enjoying a perfectly prepared meal al fresco makes you smile just thinking about it! Take a look at these amazing features, that make an outdoor entertainment area the ideal place to spend your time with family and friends.
Entertain in Comfort: Pavilions
The pavilion for this project is not only comfortable and rustic with a modern twist, but it is the ideal for entertaining. The A frame 16×20 vinyl pavilion features a Cinder color ceiling stain, a gorgeous ceiling fan, and outdoor heaters. With cozy seating surrounding the TV and gas fireplace, you can settle in with a good movie, or take in sporting events in style! Pavilions make a great addition to your outdoor entertainment area because they offer shelter and a bit of climate control allowing you to have a great time practically all year around!
Set the Mood: Gas Fireplaces
Take your pavilion to the next level with a gas fireplace or fire feature from Outdoor Innovations. Add style and improve the ambience of your outdoor entertainment area, and at the same time, extend the use of your space through the seasons. Gas fireplaces offer simplicity with the ease of turning the fire on and off effortlessly. This project features a natural stone gas fireplace. It is easy to imagine sitting curled up on the outdoor furniture with a plush blanket and hot cocoa in front of this fire in the fall, or ushering in spring with a bit more warmth while waiting for the summer months to arrive!
Chill Out: Outdoor Drop in Coolers
Do you hate opening and closing the back door, while letting out the air conditioning every time a guest wants a cold drink? Keep your beverages, condiments, and other food items chilled on ice just steps away for your convenience with drop in coolers! This pavilion has 2 drop in coolers on either side of the fireplace right within easy reach. Easy to keep clean for each use, you can keep the party going with little to no interruption, and never have to let the cool air out of your home from frequent trips inside.
Envy of the Neighborhood: Grilling Islands
Who does not love grilling out? Get the ultimate in outdoor cooking and grilling with a grilling station. This project features the works: A 36”gas grill, double burner, flat top grill, and a smoker! Any way you like your barbecue, this grilling island has it covered. Enjoy all your favorites: steak, kebabs, brats & dogs, corn on the cob and more. You will be the envy of the neighborhood with a set up like this. Get set for easy clean-up with hidden trash cans built right into the island too.
The Drinks Will Flow: Bar Islands
Including a bar island as part of your outdoor entertainment area not only provides additional attractive seating. It provides a place to keep the drinks flowing and the party in full swing. Whether you are having all your friends over for grilling and margaritas, or enjoying a romantic glass of wine while enjoying the soft lighting and fireplace, this entertainment area gives you both.
Multifunctional & Pretty: Patios
The brick patio for this project offers a multitude of purposes. Extra lounging room, additional dining space, and dare we say, a dance floor? Patios are multifunctional while also adding beauty to your outdoor entertainment area. The brick that makes up this patio brings extra dimension through its contrast with the stone used for the pavilion floor. Plenty of room for your extended family and your friends to enjoy while you take in the outdoors at home.
Your Own Private Retreat: Privacy Landscaping
The professional landscape designers at Outdoor Innovations created this outdoor entertainment area with privacy in mind. A privacy berm was built into the design that includes both luxurious evergreen bushes as well as a natural stone wall. When you have a gathering, having some privacy to be allowed to enjoy yourself is usually on the top of everyone’s wish list. Aside from privacy these additions help make your space personalized and comfortable, enhancing the overall design.
Bring the Night to Life: Outdoor LED Lighting
Entertaining is not just for the day time! Your outdoor entertainment area can transition from day to night with beautiful outdoor LED lighting. While adding security to your home, outdoor LED’s create subtle and comforting lighting all around your space. Energy saving and efficient, they can be set to turn on when you want them to. For this project lighting was placed around the landscaping and as an accent to the pavilion, so that this family can enjoy their new space any time they like!
Are You Ready for a New Outdoor Entertainment Area?
If you have been longing for a special entertaining space to enjoy with your family and friends, now is the time to get started. With a dream team of landscape designers, and installers, Outdoor Innovations can customize your backyard to your exact specifications. We encourage you to learn about our design process with includes consulting with you and producing a 3-D design to give you a full understanding of what your vision will look like. Contact Ken and Barbara today to learn more, and we will get right back to you!
Get more inspiration and ideas by watching videos on our YouTube channel. We think you will find some landscaping artistry that will get your imagination going!
Inspirations! Custom Boulder Creations From Outdoor Innovations
Get Inspired: A Walk With Ken to Check Out a Handcrafted Beauty
At Outdoor Innovations, we would like to continue to inspire you as you consider your landscaping options. Have you ever considered the natural beauty of stone? Then a custom boulder creations are a perfect feature for you! If you are looking to escape the ordinary, Outdoor Innovations can create a unique one-of-a-kind sculpture to accent your yard that will make you stand out in the best way. Let’s take another stroll with Ken as he shows us one of his favorites:
Custom Boulder Creations are as Versatile as They Are Beautiful
Aside from the natural beauty of stone, a custom boulder feature is versatile and can be used indoors or outdoors. They can be incorporated into a water feature or as part of an outdoor kitchen area. You can incorporate them into your outdoor living space. You can accent these features with lighting to give the extra pop that creates excitement with a touch of awe!
Handcrafted With Passion
With the best available quality workmanship and creativity, your custom stone feature will be one-of-a-kind. The professional team at Outdoor Innovations with work hand in hand with you to come up with a unique design that is all yours. If you can dream it, we can create it for you! You can combine Boulder Creations with water and fire features, outdoor lighting, poolscaping, patios, and more. We want to make your home or business a reflection of you and your vision of natural beauty and landscaping artistry. We would love to bring our passion for landscaping to your home.
To learn more about adding a custom boulder to your landscaping for your home or business, contact Outdoor Innovations today!
What to Look for in a Hardscaping Company
Hardscaping projects are a great way to bring life and beauty to your outdoor space. There are so many possibilities; walkways, patios, retaining walls, dining areas, steps, gathering areas, and more! Whether you are wanting to have more outdoor space to entertain guests to just a place to relax, you need to make sure the hardscaping company you choose to help you with your project is experienced and knowledgeable. But how do you know that the hardscaping company you are looking at working with is a smart choice?
Look at Past Work
Your first step should be looking at their social media or website to find a gallery, case studies, or other past work that they have completed. Reviews and testimonials are also a great way to see if past customers have been satisfied with the work completed. If a company does not have a gallery or way to see their past work there is always the possibility that they are a newer business just waiting for their start, but it could also mean that their work has not been up to par. Do your research before deciding on a business to work with!
Get an Estimate & Ask Questions
Bring your idea to a few companies and see what they say about pricing. Remember that the best hardscaping companies will almost always land somewhere in the middle, price wise. Quality work is not cheap, but it also should not be outrageously expensive. It is also a good idea to see how they feel about your project and if they are passionate about seeing it through. See if you click with a specific company. You want a hardscaping company that is as excited your project as you are!
Outdoor Innovations has the passion, knowledge, and experience to provide you with the best hardscaping in the Quad City area. With over 30 years of experience and many hardscaping projects under our belts, we are sure you will find that our team can provide you with top quality hardscaping services. Contact us today with your idea for a brand new outdoor space! We also offer landscaping, water features, fire features, outdoor living areas and much more.
Use Your Landscaping to Help with Flooding
We are getting hit with a lot of rain this time of year. For many of us, our basements are also getting hit with a lot of water. Whether you’re looking at damp corners or a full-on flooded basement, there are a few things that you can be doing with your landscaping to help minimize flooding. Let’s take a look at the options available to you that might just save your basement this spring.
Permeable Pavers or Gravel Driveways
When you think about a concrete driveway, it makes sense how it can contribute to flooding. Water has nowhere to permeate, and it ends up running down it like a slide. If your home happens to be at the receiving end of this, you’ll probably end up with water seeping into your foundation. One way to combat this is with permeable pavers or gravel. These can be used in a driveway setting, and they will slowly filter the water into the soil. This prevents oversaturated soil which can lead to a wet basement but can also really hurt your landscaping. Plus, they are a great alternative to a more traditional concrete driveway if you’re looking to change things up.
Collect Water
Many times, overflowing gutters, or gutters with downspouts too close to the home, are a cause for wet basements. Instead of letting rain from your downspout run into the soil and down your foundation, a first step would be to keep your downspout at least five feet away from the edge of your home’s foundation. However, another interesting and environmentally friendly way to protect your foundation is with rain collection. You can use this water for landscaping and gardening after the rain has stopped, and it saves you money on your water bill too. Plus, it keeps water away from your home.
Swales
Swales are natural or man-made depressions in the landscaping of your yard, and they can be used to direct water away from your home. They can also be a beautiful landscaping feature. You can plant rain gardens, which slowly filter water through their leaves, or line the swale bottom with gravel. Plus, planting items with deep roots along the swale will help with any erosion. As rain or any build-up of water runs through, it will be slowly filtered into the soil or directed away from your home. Make sure that you are directing water only to places allowed, like dry wells.
Need Help with Yard Drainage?
Call Outdoor Innovations today to help prevent flooding around your property. We are happy to work with you to create the perfect drainage solution for your unique yard. We have the knowledge, experience, and passion to design and install the best solution for you. Call us today for more information on our services or to schedule an appointment.
Permeable Pavers or Gravel Driveways
Swales