10 Charming Outdoor Spaces You’ll See All Over Washington Neighborhoods
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Walking through Washington’s neighborhoods feels like stepping into a storybook of outdoor charm. From the lush gardens of Spokane to the waterfront retreats of Seattle, outdoor living spaces here reflect the state’s unique blend of natural beauty and creative design.
These spaces aren’t just pretty to look at; they’re where communities gather, memories form, and the true spirit of Washington shines through.
1. Rain Gardens That Double As Art
Scattered throughout Seattle neighborhoods, these functional beauties combine environmental purpose with visual delight. Rain gardens capture stormwater while showcasing native plants arranged in eye-catching designs.
Many Washington homeowners have transformed mundane drainage areas into mini-ecosystems that attract butterflies and birds. The colorful plantings change with the seasons, creating year-round interest in even the smallest urban spaces.
2. Covered Porches With Mountain Views
Morning coffee tastes better when enjoyed from these sheltered sanctuaries facing the Cascades or Olympics. The quintessential Washington porch extends living space while acknowledging the state’s sometimes drizzly reality.
These covered porches feature comfortable seating, often decorated with locally-made cushions and throws. Residents add personal touches like wind chimes, hanging plants, and string lights to create cozy outdoor rooms usable nearly year-round.
3. Community P-Patches
Vibrant squares of green productivity dot urban neighborhoods throughout the state. Here, neighbors transform empty lots into thriving gardens where relationships grow alongside vegetables and flowers.
Community p-patches often feature handmade signs, creative trellises, and shared gathering spaces. Washington’s community gardens reflect the state’s commitment to sustainability and connection, providing food security and social bonds in densely populated areas.
4. Ferry-Watching Decks
Perched along shorelines from Puget Sound to the San Juan Islands, these observation spots celebrate Washington’s maritime culture. Locals gather at sunset to watch the iconic white and green vessels glide across the water.
Ferry-watching decks typically feature weathered benches, nautical details, and often a pair of mounted binoculars. The rhythmic comings and goings of Washington’s ferry fleet provide a meditative backdrop for conversations and contemplation.
5. Lavender-Lined Walkways
Borrowing inspiration from Sequim’s famous lavender farms, homeowners throughout the state create fragrant paths leading to front doors. The purple-blue blooms thrive in Washington’s climate, offering both beauty and a soothing scent.
These aromatic walkways buzz with bees during summer months. Washington residents often pair lavender with other drought-tolerant plants like rosemary and sage, creating Mediterranean-inspired approaches that welcome visitors with a multi-sensory experience.
6. Pocket Parks Between Houses
Urban planning magic happens in these small green spaces nestled between residential properties. Neighbors transform narrow passages and unused corners into miniature parks accessible to all.
These pocket parks often feature benches made from reclaimed materials, native plantings, and sometimes community art installations. Washington’s pocket parks demonstrate how even the smallest spaces can foster neighborhood pride and connection while providing peaceful retreats within walking distance of home.
7. Cedar-Crafted Hot Tub Havens
Embracing the Pacific Northwest’s timber heritage, backyard hot tub surrounds crafted from local cedar create distinctive outdoor retreats. Steam rises from these warm-water oases even on chilly evenings, making outdoor living possible year-round.
Washington homeowners often position these cedar sanctuaries to maximize views of gardens, forests, or water. The natural wood develops a silvery patina over time, blending harmoniously with the surrounding landscape while providing a gathering spot for friends and family.
8. Apple Tree Front Yards
Heritage fruit trees stand as living monuments in front yards across Eastern Washington neighborhoods. Unlike purely ornamental landscapes, these productive front gardens connect residents to the state’s agricultural roots.
Many of these apple trees have been producing for decades. Washington homeowners often add wooden benches beneath the spreading branches, creating natural gathering spots where neighbors can rest in dappled shade and perhaps enjoy the literal fruits of these living landmarks.
9. Kayak-Ready Lakefront Patios
Around Washington’s countless lakes, homes feature outdoor spaces designed for easy water access. Simple stone or wooden patios extend toward shorelines where colorful kayaks and paddleboards wait at the ready.
These lakefront lounging areas typically include Adirondack chairs positioned for optimal sunset viewing. Washington’s lake-loving homeowners create spaces that transition seamlessly between land and water, often incorporating native shoreline plants that provide habitat while preventing erosion.
10. Volcanic Rock Gardens
Celebrating the state’s dramatic geological history, gardens featuring chunks of basalt and lava rock create distinctive landscape features. These stone arrangements reference Mount St. Helens and other Cascade volcanoes while providing excellent drainage for alpine plants.
Homeowners throughout Washington incorporate these distinctive black rocks into Japanese-inspired meditation spaces. The contrast between rough stone and delicate moss or miniature conifers creates visually striking gardens that require minimal water—perfect for the state’s increasingly dry summers.