For decades, homeowners have poured the majority of their time, money, and energy into perfecting the inside of their homes. Kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, paint colors, these spaces matter. But at Copper Ridge Landscaping & Design, we firmly believe something equally important is often overlooked: your outdoor space.
In Arizona especially, outdoor living isn’t a bonus, it’s a core part of how we live. When designed thoughtfully, outdoor spaces support mental well-being, improve family life, make entertaining easier, and deliver unmatched value compared to indoor renovations.
Research consistently shows that spending time outdoors has a powerful impact on mental health. Studies have linked time in natural environments to reduced stress, lower anxiety, improved mood, and even enhanced cognitive function. Being outside helps regulate cortisol levels, improves sleep quality, and supports overall emotional balance.
This isn’t surprising. Humans are wired to respond positively to nature; sunlight, fresh air, greenery, and open space all contribute to a calmer nervous system. A well-designed backyard gives homeowners a daily opportunity to step away from screens, noise, and pressure without leaving home.
When your outdoor space is comfortable, inviting, and functional, it naturally becomes a place to reset. Morning coffee feels calmer. Evenings feel more grounded. And those small moments add up.
From a financial perspective, outdoor living space delivers incredible value. Indoor construction often costs $300–$400 per square foot, once you factor in framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, finishes, and permits.
By comparison, outdoor living spaces can often be created for $10–$20 per square foot, depending on materials and features. That means outdoor space can be up to 30 times more cost-effective than adding interior square footage.
And yet, the impact on lifestyle can be just as significant.
A patio, fire feature, or outdoor seating area expands how you use your home without the massive expense of an addition. It creates more room to live, relax, and gather at a fraction of the cost.
Parents know this instinctively: kids do better when they can go outside.
A thoughtfully designed backyard gives children room to move, play, explore, and burn energy without leaving home. Whether it’s riding bikes on hardscape, playing games on turf, or simply having space to be loud, outdoor environments naturally support healthier routines for kids.
Just as important, outdoor spaces give parents breathing room. Kids can play nearby while adults cook, relax, or socialize. There’s less mess inside, less noise bouncing off walls, and more freedom for everyone.
Outdoor living doesn’t replace parenting, but it absolutely makes it easier.
Indoor entertaining has limits. Rooms fill quickly. Noise echoes. Conversations overlap. Once enough people gather, the space can feel crowded and overwhelming.
Outdoor spaces naturally solve this problem.
Open-air environments absorb sound better, allow guests to spread out, and create a more relaxed atmosphere. People can move freely between seating areas, food stations, and conversation zones without feeling confined.
A well-designed backyard encourages connection without chaos. It allows large gatherings to feel comfortable rather than crowded, and casual evenings to feel special without effort.
When outdoor spaces are treated as intentional living areas—not afterthoughts—they become part of daily life. They encourage healthier habits, stronger connections, and more meaningful downtime.
At Copper Ridge Landscaping & Design, we don’t see outdoor spaces as separate from the home. We see them as an extension of it.
Because when your outdoor space works just as hard as your indoor space, your home doesn’t just look better, it lives better.
We’re Now Copper Ridge Landscaping & Design! ELM Landscaping & Design is rebranding to Copper Ridge Landscaping & Design. Same trusted team and ownership. Same licensed, bonded, and insured company, proudly serving you for over 25 years. Thank you for growing with us!