With cool temperatures, football and a drop off in pesky insects, autumn provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. The changing of leaves is also an indication that the holiday season is just around the corner. This season is the perfect time to dazzle up your outdoor space, creating the perfect peaceful paradise or hosting destination for family and friends.

Seasonal Style
Hardscaping and landscaping can work hand-in-hand to create an outdoor oasis perfect for embracing all this season has to offer. Intentional design includes considerations from color palettes and blooming seasons to materials and more, and paves the way for the backyard of your dreams.

In addition, planning ahead and taking care of maintenance and repairs concurrently with other projects can ensure everything is handled in a cohesive and timely manner.

"Using pavers to create, update or add, and choosing landscaping elements that will bloom at the desired time the following year is a great way to maximize the beauty of the autumn season," says Nick Erman, the co-owner of Evergreen Pros. "Before closing your pool, renovate the pool, pool pavers and patio at that time."

Backyard design goes beyond sitting areas and the pool. With the right ideas, it's possible to transform your backyard into an outdoor space fit for living, eating, peace and more.

"You can also create an outdoor living room so you can use this space throughout the year," he continues. "This can be accomplished by adding projects such as outdoor kitchens, televisions and heaters. This is also a great time to include a covered space with a firepit or fireplace to use in multiple seasons."

By bringing traditional indoor elements to the outdoors, you can extend the utility of your yard well into the fall and winter months—taking in the beauty each season brings. These additions also make for more enjoyable hosting opportunities as they allow the host to both serve food and be a part of the action rather than sweating over an oven in another room.

Along with the hustle and bustle of back to school, holiday shopping and Thanksgiving feasts, there's a need for calm. Water features can help to bring the soothing sounds of crackling creeks and soft waves to your own backyard.

"Any water feature with moving water will absolutely complete any landscape or backyard project. Imagine sitting on your new patio or deck and hearing the sounds of water while you are grilling, relaxing or even entertaining. A water feature will definitely be the focal point of any garden," says George Mihalchick, owner of Ponds By George. "These features will be enjoyed all year long. The flowing water in warmer weather will then transform into amazing ice sculptures flowing down the rocks."

There is no one perfect backyard; each project is as special as each homeowner. The best way to start any project is to consider your own lifestyle and intentions. Whether you're a social butterfly, enjoy family get-togethers, looking to start a garden or just looking for a peaceful place to put your feet up, your backyard should be a reflection of your interests.

A Transition Period
During this time of change, it is important to consider the impact of falling leaves. Leaving water surfaces open allows leaves to fall inside, clogging up filters, water features and promoting stagnant water. Placing netting over these surfaces helps to ensure their longevity and lessen the cleaning needed—allowing you more time to enjoy your space.

"When fall officially arrives, and the trees start losing their leaves, we often recommend netting your pond," says Mihalchick. "Once all the leaves have fallen, begin your fall pond care by removing any netting. Pond netting should be stored indoors to keep it safe from wear and tear due to heavy snowfall and ice."

Looking Ahead
While New Year's is still a while off, it is never too early to start thinking about your ambitions for next year. Whether you hope to host more gatherings, spend more time outdoors or finally accomplish that yard project, the fall is a great time to get started.
"Plan now," advises Erman. "Start by meeting with your contractor and developing a 3D design so that you can see it come to life before any excavating begins. This way your home will have all the permits and design prepared for an early start in the spring and be ready in time for Memorial Day weekend."

RESOURCES
Evergreen Pros
Cologne, N.J.
(609) 214-8552
EvergreenPros.com

Ponds By George
Southampton, Pa.
(215) 396-7500
PondsByGeorge.com

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 25, Issue 6 (Fall 2025)
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