When it comes to landscaping your new home, you want a design that's aesthetically pleasing. You also want a design that will adapt to the changing seasons. This is particularly true if you live in a region that experiences heavy snowfall each winter. The addition of certain landscaping features can extend the use of your yard well through the winter. Here are four simple things you can add to your landscape designs that will help you get more use out of your yard this winter.

Heat the Walkways

Snow and ice can make sidewalks and patios downright dangerous during the winter. To prevent accidents and allow you total access to your sidewalks and patios during the winter, be sure to include heating elements in your landscape designs. Heating elements placed directly under your sidewalks and patios allow the ice and snow to melt, which reduces the chances of slip-and-fall accidents.

Cover the Patios

If you enjoy outdoor activities during the winter, be sure you provide the proper protection from the elements. By including covered patios and decks in your landscape, you can continue to enjoy your barbecue and your spa throughout the winter months.

Reduce the Voltage on Your Lighting

During the winter, high-voltage lighting can create a significant glare off the snow. This glare can prevent you from enjoying the view into your yard. If you're concerned about security, it's important to note that low-voltage lighting will provide you with the same security, without the winter glare. If you enjoy watching the wildlife that ventures into your yard during the winter, you'll appreciate the fact that low-voltage lighting will reduce the glare so that you can get a clear view. 

Make Room for the Snow

If your current landscape designs call for the placement of plants right up against your driveway and sidewalks, you might want to reconsider. Having gardens so close to your driveway and sidewalks can make it difficult to clear the snow properly. To prevent damage to your plants while you're removing snow, leave several feet of empty space near your sidewalks and driveway. This will allow you clear a path without worrying about where your plants are located.

If you live in a region that experiences heavy snowfall each winter, make sure your new landscaping is designed to adapt to the changing seasons. The tips provided here will help make your yard accessible during those cold winter months. For more information and advice, contact a company like Milieu Design.