Outdoors
How to Create an Outdoor Oasis
Create your own outdoor oasis with advice from experts in Springfield, Missouri.
By Jordan Blomquist
Jun 2025
With summer finally here, you might be looking to enhance your outdoor living space. Turn to 417 Magazine for guidance on creating the perfect outdoor kitchen, building the deck of your dreams or establishing the best landscaping in your neighborhood. Below, you’ll find:
• How synthetic grass makes lawn care easier than ever with ForeverLawn of the Ozarks.
• Imber Pool + Outdoor’s advice for building a space that’s both beautiful and built to last.
• How to build an expansion of your living space with Ozark Deck and Timber LLC.
• What grill supplies and outdoor kitchen features are best for you with tips from The Grill Guys.
• Landscape maintenance tips from JAG’s Lawn and Landscape.
• Information on a range of high-quality hot tubs from Missouri Furniture to help with relaxation and wellness.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration to craft your own backyard retreat or your current space needs a refresh, we’ve gathered details and advice from local businesses to provide all the information you need.
Photo courtesy of ForeverLawn of the OzarksManicured landscaping and wide-open turf make this backyard feel expansive and inviting. With synthetic grass underfoot, the lush look lasts year-round—no mowing required.
Photo courtesy of ForeverLawn of the OzarksA pristine pool, modern loungers and lush, synthetic turf come together to create a resort-worthy retreat right at home.
Photo courtesy of ForeverLawn of the OzarksThis cozy backyard corner is all peace and (low-maintenance) perfection.
Why Synthetic Grass Could Be the Low-Maintenance Lawn Upgrade Your Yard Needs
ForeverLawn of the Ozarks
Location: Southwest Missouri
Specialty: Synthetic grass
Looking to spend more time enjoying your outdoor space and less time maintaining it? Synthetic grass might be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed. The team at ForeverLawn of the Ozarks says today’s artificial grass options are more realistic and durable than ever—and a smart fit for families, pet owners and anyone hoping to spend more time enjoying their yard than maintaining it.
Synthetic turf offers a clean, green surface that stands up to high foot traffic, unpredictable Ozarks weather and energetic pets. It can also be installed in places where natural grass struggles, like shaded areas, sloped terrain or high-use corners of the yard.
Still on the fence? Here are three reasons to consider making the switch:
1. No need for fertilizers or chemicals. Synthetic turf is made from sustainable materials and stays green without the cost or environmental impact of constant lawn care products.
2. Save water. It’s no secret that Missouri has some hot, dry, summer days. There is no need to increase that water bill with synthetic grass.
3. Show your personality. ForeverLawn offers turf designed for specific uses—from play areas to pet zones to backyard putting greens—so you can tailor your yard to your lifestyle..
ForeverLawn works with homeowners to design functional, easy-care landscapes that match their needs. Their team encourages anyone considering turf to think about how they want to use their space and what challenges they’d like to solve. With the right product and installation, synthetic grass can turn even the most frustrating yard into a favorite part of the home.
Photos courtesy of Imber Pool + OutdoorImber Pool + Outdoor created this resort-style escape with loungers, umbrellas, and a sleek covered pool—perfect for family relaxation.
Photos courtesy of Imber Pool + OutdoorImber Pool + Outdoor blends form and function with this sleek pool and stylish pavilion setup.
Photos courtesy of Imber Pool + OutdoorThis glowing backyard setup by Imber Pool + Outdoor shines with LED lights and a bold fire feature for stunning nighttime ambiance.
The Art of Outdoor Living
Imber Pool + Outdoor
Location: Missouri and Northwest Arkansas
Specialty: In-ground pool installation
At Imber Pool + Outdoor, outdoor living is approached as an art form. “Our outdoor spaces are designed like art and built like architecture,” says CEO Michelle Hermans. “Because your home’s next great room might not have a roof.”
Every project begins with vision and evolves into a space that feels both striking and seamless—a natural extension of the home. At Imber Pool + Outdoor, their team believes outdoor living should be just as intentional, expressive and beautiful as what’s inside the home. The result isn’t just a place to relax, it’s a place that reflects the homeowner’s style and sense of place.
What sets the Imber team apart is their commitment to design-first thinking. Their spaces are shaped by architecture, inspired by art and created by master craftsmen. Here’s their expert advice for building a space that’s both beautiful and built to last:
1. Think of it as architecture, not landscaping
Imber emphasizes layout and flow to make each element feel intentional, not just installed.
2. Start with how you want to live
Before selecting features, think about function. Do you want a place to entertain, unwind, cook or all of the above?
3. Use timeless, durable materials
Imber’s builds are designed to age gracefully and stay beautiful over time.
4. Details make the design
Lighting, water features, fire elements and custom seating can elevate a space from standard to striking.
From elegant pools and patios to fire, water and lighting that stir the senses, Imber Pool + Outdoor treats outdoor spaces like what they truly are: works of art.
Photo courtesy of Ozark Deck and Timber LLC.Ozark Deck and Timber LLC collaborated closely with a client who faced the challenge of rebuilding a pool house destroyed by a tornado.
Photo courtesy of Ozark Deck and Timber LLC.The new timber-framed construction provides a shaded area for those relaxing by the pool.
Photo courtesy of Ozark Deck and Timber LLC.The construction offers an open layout, providing captivating views and promoting interaction with those in the pool and patio areas.
Relax in the Shade
Ozark Deck and Timber LLC
Location: Southwest Missouri
Outdoor specialty: Custom decks, porches, pergolas and timber-framed constructions
Focusing on inspiring clients to reimagine their outdoor spaces, Ozark Deck and Timber LLC advocate for a shift in how people use their outdoor areas, suggesting the expansion of living space through thoughtfully designed structures tailored to both the client and their home. “We take pride in our ability to design and build unique structures that fit our client’s specific needs and preferences,” says co-owner Cody Tapken.
The essence of Ozark Deck and Timber LLC's work lies in blending indoor and outdoor environments, creating extensions of a home’s interior that emphasize comfort and usability during Missouri’s unpredictable seasons. These carefully crafted spaces serve as memorable settings for family gatherings and social events, enriching the overall lifestyle of their clients.
Client interaction is a prominent focus for Ozark Deck and Timber LLC. “We work to communicate with our clients during the project’s duration, keeping you informed and engaged in the process,” Tapken says. “Every step of your project will be approached with pride in our work and quality first.
Their project: In a recent project, the Ozark Deck and Timber LLC team collaborated closely with a client who faced the challenge of rebuilding a pool house destroyed by a tornado. Together, they developed a new plan that integrated key features from the previous structure while introducing innovative design elements. The resulting timber-framed construction offers an open layout, providing captivating views and promoting interaction with those in the pool and patio areas.
Photos by Katy St. ClairThe Grill Guys is an outdoor kitchen and barbecue supply store focused on helping customers elevate their backyard cooking.
Purchase Photo
Photos by Katy St. ClairThis outdoor kitchen features elements such as a sink, refrigerator, gas grill head, Big Green Egg and griddle.
Purchase Photo
Get Your Grill On
The Grill Guys
Location: 932 US-60, Republic, Missouri
Outdoor specialty: Outdoor kitchens and barbecue grill supplies
The Grill Guys, owned by Skyler Spartan and Charlie Wallace, is a premier destination for outdoor kitchen solutions and barbecue grill supplies. They excel in transforming outdoor spaces into culinary paradises. “We love helping our customers elevate their grilling game with our thorough product knowledge and ability to speak from experience interacting with the products we sell and use personally,” Spartan says.
The Grill Guys has a wide array of outdoor kitchen brands, including Big Green Egg, Twin Eagles, FireMagic, Summerset, Delta Heat and more. Whether your preference lies in charcoal, gas or pellet wood cooking, they offer a large selection to cater to individual tastes.
In addition to kitchen essentials, The Grill Guys provides a comprehensive range of outdoor appliances such as refrigerators, ice makers, dishwashers, sinks and more. With a passion for upgrading grilling experiences, Spartan and Wallace leverage their substantial product knowledge and personal experiences to guide customers toward the best solutions.
Their project: In a recent project in Highland Springs, the team assisted in creating a custom outdoor kitchen for a client. They aided in adjusting the layout to accommodate the correct sizing and desired arrangement. The outdoor kitchen features elements such as a sink, refrigerator, gas grill head, Big Green Egg and griddle. The Grill Guys helped in the design process, ensuring the final layout met the client’s needs and preferences.
Photos courtesy of JAG's Lawn and LandscapeIn this project, JAG's Lawn and Landscape cleaned up a berm bordering the client’s backyard that separated their property from the golf course.
Photos courtesy of JAG's Lawn and LandscapeIn this two-level garage, the JAG's team created access to the lower level, which is being used as a home office. They also installed new plants and decorative rocks behind the walls.
Photos courtesy of JAG's Lawn and LandscapePictured here is the completed project. The team built multi-level retaining walls on either side of the office entrance, along with a staircase leading to the upper level and stepping stones connecting to the back patio.
Transform Your Landscape
JAG's Lawn and Landscape
Location: 4913 S. Farm Rd. 223, Rogersville
Outdoor specialty: Lawns, landscaping and more
JAG’s Lawn and Landscape is a landscape company that offers a multitude of services, including fertilizer and spraying, lawn maintenance and landscape maintenance and installation, as well as hardscaping which includes installing paver patios and segmented retaining walls. They also provide irrigation maintenance services and installation.
At JAG’s Lawn and Landscape, they aim to inspire readers by demonstrating the various ways to transform their landscapes into beautiful, enjoyable spaces. They emphasize the importance of proactive maintenance, advising against waiting until landscapes become unmanageable. Their recommendation is to schedule light maintenance twice a year, which not only fosters a healthy landscape but also helps save money in the long run.
Their project: In a 2022 project within the Rivercut neighborhood, a customer employed a custom home builder to construct a detached garage adjacent to their house. Due to the site’s sloping nature, the garage comprised two levels: the upper for vehicle storage and the lower for home office space. JAG’s was recruited to create access to the lower level from above as well as from the house’s back door. Additionally, the client wanted to clean up a berm bordering their backyard, adjoining the golf course. Multi-level retaining walls were built on either side of the office entrance, along with a staircase leading to the upper level and stepping stones connecting to the existing back patio. The project included the installation of new plants and decorative rocks behind the walls and on the back berm.
Photos courtesy of Missouri Furniture.Missouri Furniture offers a range of Hot Spring, Caldera and Fantasy Spa hot tubs known for their exceptional quality and value.
Photos courtesy of Missouri Furniture.Perfect for any season, hot tubs can reduce stress, relax muscles and improve sleep, according to Healthline.
Photos courtesy of Missouri Furniture.Missouri Furniture also offers a wide selection of patio/outdoor furniture.
Create a Stress-Free Haven with a Hot Tub from Missouri Furniture
Missouri Furniture
Location: 1881 W. James River Rd., Ozark
Outdoor Speciality: Hot tubs and outdoor furniture
Imagine creating this backyard oasis—a relaxing space where you can focus on health, happiness and wellbeing—and having a place to build memories and relax after a long day. Missouri Furniture can help give you just that!
Missouri Furniture stands as a leading destination for those looking to elevate their relaxation and wellness experiences, specifically through hot tubs. With a spotlight on its range of hot tubs and professional installation services, Missouri Furniture aims to provide a seamless journey for customers.
Their expert team is committed to assisting clients at every step, starting from the selection process, where they ensure the perfect hot tub tailored to each client’s preferences. From there, their mission extends to overseeing the delivery and installation, transforming spaces into sanctuaries of rest and relaxation.
They take pride in offering the highest quality products, including a range of Hot Spring, Caldera and Fantasy Spa hot tubs known for their exceptional quality and value. At Missouri Furniture, they understand the importance of timely maintenance and repairs. With a fully stocked parts department, they guarantee that any hot tub they sell can be swiftly repaired, if needed, at a reasonable service charge.
Their commitment to quality extends beyond products to encompass service and support, promising the highest standard in relaxation products. Whether it’s unwinding after a long day or embracing wellness routines, Missouri Furniture provides a pathway to make wellness easy and luxurious.
This content is sponsored by ForeverLawn of the Ozarks, Imber Pool + Outdoor, Ozark Deck and Timber LLC., The Grill Guys, JAG’s Lawn and Landscape, and Missouri Furniture.
