Creative solutions to make your hot tub look at home in your yard

Imagine coming home after a long day and soaking your worries away in your own private Hot Tub. Little Rock is really an ideal climate in which to own one; it gets cold enough in the winter to necessitate having one, but not so cold that you'll freeze when you get out and head for the door.

But as awesome as owning a hot tub sounds, I've always worried that it might become a sore thumb in my otherwise well-manicured yard. Hot tubs are pretty big, bulky objects and will undoubtedly become a noticeable element in any yard. However, there is no reason to forgo that relaxing soak or sacrifice your backyard's appeal. Here are a few ideas on integrating your hot tub with the rest of your landscape design:

• Consider the placement. A freestanding hot tub is exposed from all sides, making it more prominent. To lessen visual impact, you should try to position your hot tub in a corner, such as against your house or a fence. Of course, you should make sure the hot tub's enclosure is property sealed to prevent any water leaks and also properly ventilated to avoid creating condensation on nearby surfaces.
• Conceal the base with greenery. Build flower boxes or position pots full of leafy or flowering plants along the base of your hot tub. Opt for bushier varieties for the most camouflaging action. Another option is to build a trellis enclosure and train vines up its surfaces.
• Color the base dark green. Some hot tub bases are available in custom colors. Choose a shade that helps it 'disappear' against the backdrop of your yard. If you plan to paint it yourself, check with the manufacturer so that you use the right kind of paint. In some cases, painting might not be an option.
• Build a patio around your hot tub. By far the most common solution, building a patio in which your hot tub is sunken provides the dual benefits of concealing while creating an area for guests to gather. Choose a wood that stands up well to moisture and seal it properly. Make sure you have plenty of room to build steps, and avoid a situation where they are too steep or could become slippery.
• Create an inviting pathway. To really tie your hot tub into your landscape design, you should create a welcoming walkway that leads to it. Pave the surface with brick or stone, and line it with lighting to help you navigate at night.

Have you come up with some creative solutions to make your hot tub look at home in your yard? We'd love to hear them!