Summer is in full-swing and who doesn’t love spending time outdoors with family and friends? Perhaps, you are embarrassed by the state of your current space.
If you have neglected your yard or are craving an update, I have 10 of my favorite ideas for updating your backyard below.
Install a Pergola
Pergolas can be simple or more lavish, but they create a beautiful space to sit and enjoy the outside.
While costs can range greatly depending on size, materials, and your location, expect to pay roughly $5,000 for a prefabricated one installed in your yard.
Add a Firepit
Want a way to enjoy your backyard year round? Install a firepit! Great for warming up during the winter and socializing in the summer, a firepit is great for those that love to entertain.
You can have one custom made or just purchase one and install it that day. There are lots of options to meet your needs.
Deck Out
A beautiful deck can really add value to your home and become an extension of your lifestyle. There are several materials and options on the market, but be sure you don’t neglect proper maintenance. Decks that are neglected can become rotted and unsafe!
Power Wash Your Screen Porch or Back Patio
No one wants to look at dirty screens so be sure to give your outdoor screen patio or back porch a good wash every so often.
Patio Furniture
Creating an outdoor living space is a great way to maximize your backyard. Furniture that is durable, but also beautiful, will stand the test of time.
Think of creating a living room on a back patio or deck.
Determine the central focal point and how the furniture should be oriented. If you have a pool for instance, orient the furniture in a U shape so you create a natural vantage point to admire the pool.
Secondly, don’t forget to have ample surfaces for placing drinks or plates. Think about how far a guest would have to reach in order to put down a drink. Have side tables and a coffee table to create a true outdoor extension of your home.
Spruce Up the Lawn and Plant a Garden
A beautiful backyard needs to be well maintained and that really starts with tending to the lawn and having a small garden. Even if you don’t have a very large yard, a small area where you plants some trees, hedges and/or flowers can make a big impact.
For a really low maintenance solution, choose hardy plants and consider mulch or rocks to keep weeds at bay.
Put in a Pool
A pool is a wonderful place to hang out during those hot summer months. While a pool can be absolutely worth it for you and your family, just be aware this is not a cheap addition. Not only do you have upfront costs, but you will definitely need to be aware there are ongoing costs.
I would also suggest you take several safety precautions and install gates, barriers and pool alarms. These are all relatively inexpensive options when you consider it can save the life of a pet or loved one.
Go Fishing with a Pond
You don’t need to be rich to have a pond! Install a small koi pond for a unique water feature in your backyard. This small beauty can be a great conversation piece and a natural place for folks to hang around.
Just be aware that a koi pond presents its own set of maintenance requirements. Much like having a pool, regular care is a must.
Hang a Hammock
Is there anything that makes your think of being on vacation quite like a hammock? A really affordable addition, a hammock allows you to relax with a book or drink from the comfort of your home.
Hammocks come in a number of styles and sizes, so be sure to pick one that compliments your yard.
Outdoor Kitchen
Having an outdoor kitchen is quite the luxury. Hosting a BBQ or party becomes easier when you have an entire outdoor kitchen ready for entertaining.
When you plan appropriately, your outdoor kitchen really becomes an extension of your main kitchen. Just be sure that you think of this space as an extension of your existing exterior aesthetic.
Conclusion
Alright, those are 10 of my favorite ways to update your backyard. Which of these ideas was your favorite? What backyard update did I miss that is in your top ten?
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From the time I was a young child, I have loved interior design and beautiful things. Ten-year-old me would create “floor plans” on notebook paper and design the dream homes of my siblings. We would have an initial meeting and after jotting down their wish list, I got to work creating the home of their dreams.
After designing the layout, I would take the Sunday newspaper ads (are those still a thing?) and cut out pictures of furniture, lamps, and accessories to create mood boards for each room in the home. When I was all done, weeks and weeks later, I would showcase my work and pitch my design ideas to a sibling.
If you too enjoy beautiful things and the process of turning a vision into a reality, welcome! If you love watching homes transform, but just don’t know how to start or have the resources to buy everything you like, stick around. I love finding affordable and practical design solutions to give YOU a gorgeous home you can be proud of.
Together, let’s reveal what’s possible.
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