Susie Skog knows Lake Norman Real Estate Inside Out

Urban life comes with plenty of advantages, but if theres one challenge that can be difficult to overcome, its staying connected to nature. For many of us, being surrounded by plants and trees or hearing the sounds of birds and cascading water is an easy way to relax and find tranquility, especially when the grind of the city starts to bog you down. If your urban environment leaves you yearning to reconnect with Mother Earth, here are a few ways to experience nature in the city.

Create Your Own Oasis
Whether its a small backyard or a spacious terrace, make the most of your outdoor living area and try to surround yourself with plants. There are numerous benefits to doing so, from the appealing aesthetic to air purification and extra privacy. If you dont have a green thumb, its okay to work with a professional landscape designer to create an enchanting little hideaway right outside your home and, of course, you can always fill your indoor space with plants when it gets cold outside.

Rooftop Gardens
Rooftop gardens are becoming increasingly popular in the city, from hotels with verdant lounges and restaurants to public buildings with well-tended green spaces on top. Roof-to-table restaurants are a another relatively new concept and although they might not have seating on the roof, you can still treat yourself to fresh, organic vegetables that are grown right upstairs.

Parks & Trails
Local parks, nature trails and botanical gardens are all easy ways to get a quick dose of nature when you dont have time to get out of the city. Taking just a few minutes to appreciate all the sights, sounds and smells can leave you feeling more mindful and at peace in your environment.

Indoor Herb Garden
If your home is a bit limited in terms of outdoor space, all it takes is a sunny spot inside to grow your own herb garden. You can garnish your meals (and cocktails) with the fresh flavors of homegrown rosemary, mint, cilantro and much more while getting to experience the wonders of nature.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Here are three ways that you can upgrade your homes interior design without leaving the house.

Digital Design Services

Interior design firms are going digital with their services by video conferencing with clients.

Online Classes

If youre more of a DIYer, then perhaps this is an ideal opportunity to enroll in that interior design class you never had time for.

Put Your Eye to the Test

Try experimenting with different looks by moving artwork or changing the flow by rearranging furniture.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Looking to update your basement? Here are a few ideas…

Home Theater

Basements are the perfect place to design the home theater of your dreams.

Fitness Area

A fitness area in your basement is rather simple, with the most important features being mirrored walls and a durable floor.

Relaxing Spa

A place to unwind at the end of the day, a home spa is a luxury youre sure to appreciate.

Wine Cellar

The ability to store bottles collected from around the world under ideal conditions will set your house apart.

Home Office

The basement might be the best place to put a designated workspace away from the rest of the house.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Outdoor living areas are a highly desirable feature when it comes to residing in the city. Its a luxury that many affluent homebuyers put at the top of their list when looking at properties. Speaking in broad terms, there are essentially two different types of outdoor spaces that youre likely to come across when viewing real estate in the city: those that are wide open to skyline views and those that are enclosed hideaways. If youre still debating which one is right for you, heres a detailed look at how these types of spaces differ.

Open Urban Spaces
Whether its a rooftop terrace or a spacious balcony, some luxury homebuyers are drawn to outdoor spaces that benefit from far-ranging city views. Theres no denying the wow-factor that comes with overlooking a metropolis and watching the shimmering lights turn on as the sun goes down. This dramatic backdrop is ever-changing with the seasons and development of the city, though that does mean that your view could potentially be obstructed by a new building or construction equipment in the future.

Enclosed Urban Spaces
Then, there are those who prefer the feeling of a private sanctuary in the heart of a city. An outdoor space thats enclosed, like a courtyard or a walled terrace with lush plantings, has the power to transport you outside of your urban surroundings. These are ideal if the hustle and bustle of the city tends to grind you down and you need somewhere to escape at the end of each day. While you may not have the city views, theres much to be said for an intimate hideaway.

Go Big With Both
Of course, for those who are not willing to make any sacrifices when it comes to luxury living, it is possible to have both. This could mean having multiple outdoor spaces that cater to different situations, such as a peaceful courtyard ideal for al fresco dinners and a separate terrace with unobstructed views where you can entertain. Ultimately, its a matter of personal preference.

Published with permission from RISMedia.