What are the hottest trends of this COVID-19 Summer in 2020?
First of all - it's anything outdoors and socially distanced. From building a backyard oasis to biking and gardening, the positive coming from the Coronavirus are some throwback lifestyle ideas.
Stock Tank Pools
For many of us, summer means pool time. But if you usually visit a community pool or recreation center, that might not be an option right now. Building a traditional pool at your home is a big and expensive project. That's where the stock tank pool comes in.
Last year, New York magazine’s the Strategist dubbed stock tanks “the Mason jars of backyard pools.” But unlike Mason jars, this resurging throwback shows no sign of losing steam.
"These inexpensive farm staples were originally designed as water troughs for livestock," said Country Living "but that's part of their country-chic appeal. Nowadays, stock tank swimming pools have been popping up in backyards across the country."
While this DIY project is not the easiest task, it can produce a rewarding result. Here's how to make a splash with a stock tank pool in your own backyard.
Pick your tank size
Round stock tanks come in 10ft, 8ft, and 6ft diameters. As popularity has grown, the larger sizes have become more challenging to secure. There are also oval options, but they don't necessarily provide the same kind of experience.
Pick your spot
Where you're going to put your stock tank tub or pool is just as important as the pool itself. Without a level foundation, you'll have leaks and uneven water levels. "Job one is obviously selecting the site for your stock tank pool. You'll need to prepare the area by creating a solid, level base," said Tractor Supply. "You could use compacted sand, or even crushed granite. But, it's very important to ensure that it's a smooth surface, free of any rocks or sharp edges."
Add your accessories
And by accessories, we mean design and function.
Function first. A stock tank pool isn't as easy to set up as a kiddie pool. You could just fill it with water and call it a day, but you'll end up swimming in gunk. Take a cue (and detailed instructions) from the Hey Wanderer blog, and keep your pool clean all summer long with proper pumps and chlorine. And in MN, you may want to incorporate a heater and a cover.
Once you've got your stock tank set up, it's time to make it fancy. While the tank alone has its own distinct vibe, it can be dressed up in any number of ways. Paint the metal, build deck seating around it, add stairs, hang lights, and incorporate tikis to create a tropical getaway feel—the sky's the limit!
Gardens
For many of us, summer means fresh produce and farmers markets. But if you usually visit a community market, that might not be an option right now. It's too late for an abundant garden this year but you can certainly spend the summer preparing for next year.
Even if you just have a patio or deck, you can try your hand at container gardening. While this DIY garden may not feed your family, it will add that homegrown vibe to your summer meals.
Pick your plants
What veggies and fruits do you like to eat? How much of it will you eat? Do you like herbs? Do you want to can or preserve your leftovers?
Pick your spot
Most gardens need sun but some plants also call for shade. Know what you plan to grow before you choose your spot and choose your location wisely - just like in real estate. ;-)
Pick your garden size
If this is your first year, you may want to find a spot where you can start small and grow into a bigger garden when you are sure you have a green thumb and the time.
Protect your future harvest
Most gardens will be infiltrated with wildlife. Squirrels, birds, deer and more depending on what you plant. Plan to have fencing, netting and other protective plans for your garden.
Outdoor Spaces
Living in MN meant we started this quarantine during the colder months. After being pent up all winter, lockdown meant Minnesotans were more excited than usual to get outdoors.
But getting outdoors for us usually involves, going to fairs, car shows, parks, concerts, the zoo and other events that got shut down this year.
This means people had to find ways to enjoy the outdoors from home. For those that didn't have their own yard, the walls quickly closed in around them. Here are some outdoor projects we saw people tackling.
Deck Gardens and Seating
When your deck is your only private outdoor space, you must use it wisely. People didn't stop at comfy chairs and bistro tables. Mosquito netting, railing pots and solar lights were approved by many associations and management companies on a temporary basis.
Screening in the deck
Enclosing your deck with a roof and screen extends the amount of time you can spend on your deck by providing shelter and keeping the bugs out. Many people were looking to splurge by adding a fireplace to their design for and even longer season of enjoyment.
Creating a patio and firepit
A place to gather in small groups could be just what the soul needs. If you have been "roughin' it" with a simple ring, this spring probably got you motivated to upgrade. Whether you went all out with a professional grade patio or just found some nicer chairs and an elevated fire bowl.
Exercise Spaces
From trampolines and yoga mats to full blown ninja warrior courses, getting exercise for adults and kids meant getting creative. But what happens when EVERYONE is tying to create a home gym outdoors? The stores sell out of the equipment quickly! My own family waited over two months to get a tumble track for our gymnasts.
Add your accessories
What makes the space more comfortable? Tiki torches? Cushions? Solar lights? Cooler stands? The options were nearly endless!
How did you make your outdoor space shine during the Coronavirus lockdown? I would love to hear about it!
Are you wondering if your outdoor space additions added value to your home, call me! We can take a virtual look at it and I can let you know your home's current value.
