How can I decorate a 16'x16' courtyard starting from scratch?
There are bushes on two sides, but really just a big square, would like an inviting New Orleans look, something that pulls everything together.
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For a New Orleans courtyard look, think a variety of different sized pots with palms and other green plants. If you can swing it, add a fountain or some kind of water feature. Think about adding a small cafe table with a pair of chairs. I don't know what your courtyard hard surface is, brick is the traditional surface for New Orleans courtyards, but if you don't have brick, find a nice patterned outdoor rug to center the courtyard. I love a courtyard, I think yours will be wonderful. For more inspiration, check out real estate listings for the New Orleans French Quarter and look at the images. I hope you get some great inspiration.
I would look on line for the picture that you like and then we can help you “deconstruct” the components in the picture- so that you have a shopping & task list.
Do you have a hose bib and/or exterior outlet in this space?
Is there lighting already there?
Are you wanting primarily hardscape or live landscaping design solutions?
Large pots with regional designs and black wrought iron.
FIRST, take pictures of the yard, section by section. It's easier doing it by section that being overwhelmed by the whole thing all at one time. Take your first section picture with a drawing pad. Picture it in your mind what you would want for that section & draw your arrangement. If it's flowers, then draw a border line & write the word ""flowers"" inside that border line. TAKE your second section & do the same thing & so on. Once you've finished with all your sections. PLACE them under a sheet of your drawing pad (or tracing paper) & make a BIG picture using all the small ones. GO outside & hold your drawing up & look at the yard & drawing at the same time.