March celebrates not only National Women’s Day but also Women in Construction Week. It is a time to recognize the accomplishments and work of women in an industry typically dominated by men and how we can change the narrative of construction careers and success. While women make up only 10.9% of the construction workforce, there are new opportunities in outdoor design.

The business of outdoor design has grown exponentially in the last ten years as homeowners redefine what their outdoor spaces mean to them. We’re highlighting Women in Construction Week in episode 12 of Inside Out with Belgard. Joe Raboine chatted with one of the leading female contractors in the industry, Sara Bendrick. Sara is a landscape contractor and designer, owner of Sarita Landscape Design and HGTV personality.

Here are a few takeaways from their conversation.

Tandem Wall Planter mixing hardscapes with landscapes — Adding native plants to your hardscapes enhances your outdoor space, as well as your overall wellness

Creating Balance in Your Outdoor Space

COVID accelerated the industry in terms of outdoor design and altered how viewers used social media. Contractors found a way to educate people on the top dos and don’ts regarding design and at-home DIYs. Homeowners found valuable tips and outdoor design inspiration for their projects.

The difficult part homeowners try to grasp when envisioning their space is finding the balance of efficient outdoor living space while incorporating nature. Many people are pushing for low maintenance, minimal designs using only pavers, rubber mulch, and turf. They don’t always realize the benefits that adding a shaded tree and pollinator plants can do for their well-being and health, as well as the environment. This is why contractors and landscape architects are essential when it comes to planning. They can balance inorganic and organic materials to produce a diverse space and make you feel in tune with nature.

Prioritizing Exteriors + Personalizing Trends

Depending on where they’re located, some homeowners don’t prioritize their home’s exterior. As Sara discusses in the episode, homeowners on each coast can see the value for different reasons. But now, people located in more central areas of the U.S. see the value in having an outdoor living area as part of their home. With this shift, homeowners are using their exterior spaces for daily activities rather than just entertaining on the weekends. Outdoor projects can be overwhelming, so homeowners are seeking advice and professionals to help them achieve their dream space.

Homeowners are also leaning on contractors and landscape architects and designers to add trendy patios, outdoor kitchens, shaded structures and more but with a personalized touch. Clients are now more adventurous, moving away from apparent trends and focusing on their wants and needs rather than what is trending. Examples include the use of mixed materials or creating funky patterns with hardscapes.

These are just a few of the topics Joe and Sara discussed.

outdoor kitchen with pergola — Adding a pergoal to an outdoor kitchen enhances the design and offers protection from the sun

outdoor living space with turf and pergola — Adding a pergoal to an outdoor kitchen enhances the design and offers protection from the sun

Learn more from Inside Out with Belgard

To hear Joe and Sara’s full conversation, listen to episode 12 of Inside Out with Belgard. Inside Out with Belgard is available wherever you listen to podcasts.

This year marked the 25th annual Women in Construction Week. To learn how to get involved next year, visit www.wicweek.org. Women in Construction Week is organized by The National Association of Women in Construction.

Inside Out podcast with Sara Bendrick — Listen to episode 12 feat. Sara Bendrick

Relaxing outdoor space with fire pit — Hardscape projects in Kansas City and southern Wisconsin with products manufactured by Belgard, an Oldcastle Company.

As a contractor, one of the most important things you can do for your clients is to plan and execute an outdoor space to help them unplug. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s important to unplug and spend time connecting with friends, nature, and loved ones. Outdoor spaces that promote relaxation, creativity, and well-being are more valuable than ever before.

Planning a Relaxing Outdoor Space

To plan an outdoor space that helps your client unplug, it’s essential to understand their goals, geographic location, and outdoor interests. Start by asking your client about their vision for the space and what they hope to achieve when spending time outdoors. This is a great time to discuss their outdoor patio ideas.

For example, if they’re looking to create a peaceful and relaxing environment, consider incorporating an outdoor garden wall or outdoor planters with comfortable seating and soft lighting. If your client enjoys outdoor games, consider adding a bocce ball court, a horseshoe pit, or outdoor chess. It’s also important to consider the climate and geographic location when selecting plants and hardscaping materials. By taking your client’s goals, geographic location, and interests into consideration, you can create their perfect unplugging space.

Lighting makes this relaxing backyard space usable all year round
Relaxing gardens. (product: Mega-Bergerac)
For fun & games, create outdoor chess in your backyard.
An outdoor chess board and pool is the perfect unplugging combo.

Biophilic Design

Vertical garden with a water feature — A water feature with a vertical garden inspires a peaceful atmosphere.

Incorporating biophilic design principles into outdoor hardscape designs can help your clients feel more connected to nature and provide a calming, soothing environment. Biophilic designs like vertical gardens, built-in planters, and garden walls emphasize our innate connection with nature and seek to integrate natural elements into our built environment. By incorporating these natural elements into your client’s outdoor hardscape design, you can create an environment that feels more organic and promotes more sustainable design. These elements can help reduce stress, increase focus and creativity, and improve overall well-being.

The Finishing Touches

Rectangle fire pit and patio — Ambiance is amplified with a beautiful fire pit – which also doubles as a light and heat source.

Outdoor fireplaces for St. Louis installation — Ambiance is amplified with a beautiful fire pit – which also doubles as a light and heat source.

Sometimes it’s all in the details. The smaller finishing touches can make a world of difference in your client’s outdoor living space. For clients who enjoy staying outdoors into the late hours, integrating optimal lighting increases functionality, allowing them to use their space any time. Adding a fire pit or fireplace also serves as an extra lighting source – and makes the perfect gathering spot for fireside chats and s’mores.

Water features are another excellent addition to maximize serenity. The sounds of a bubbling fountain or water bowl have a calming effect – and mask noises from neighbors or traffic. Also, think about any privacy elements that will make your client feel more comfortable. Decorative screen panels can be used to create partitions to separate different outdoor rooms or provide added seclusion.

The Benefits of Unplugging

Patio game area — Outdoor games create a fun environment for unwinding.

Unplugging outdoors provides numerous benefits for mental and physical well-being. Spending time outside is proven to reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and improve overall mood. Unplugging from technology encourages creativity and concentration, which can enhance productivity and mental clarity. Additionally, outdoor physical activities like gardening, swimming, or playing outdoor games can improve physical health, increase cardiovascular function, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Unplugging provides an opportunity to connect with the natural world, recharge, and prioritize self-care. By creating a unique outdoor space tailored to your client’s needs, you can help them enjoy the many benefits of spending time in nature.

Now more than ever, having a space to unwind and decompress is essential. Helping your clients unplug and recharge in the outdoors has so many positive effects on their well-being. Learning about your clients, incorporating biophilic design, and customizing their projects allows you to create an inviting environment that can be the core of relaxation, rejuvenation, and some of life’s most cherished moments.