Everyone dreams of having a beautiful and inviting backyard where you can unwind after a long day. If you have a large family, hosting get-togethers and spending time with those closest to you can be another attraction.
Yet many people believe that a backyard makeover is expensive, and don’t think that they have the time to make it look better. Luckily, it’s not as hard to create a beautiful outdoor space as you may believe.
Keep reading to learn about 7 ways to take your backyard to the next level.
1. Keep up With Basic Maintenance
When you keep up with basic maintenance, things are a lot easier to keep control of. You need to get into a routine and try to stick to it. A lot of people might employ a company to look after the lawn and keep things under control, especially if they have a large backyard. If you’ve just moved into a house, this might be a little harder to do because there may be some major work needing to be done to your property. You also may not know who to contact. For example, if you’ve just moved to LA or Huntington Beach and the trees in your yard are completely overgrown, you won’t know who to contact. Start off by simply searching for Huntington Beach tree service in Google and see what comes up. A qualified expert tree surgeon can help you get your yard in order so that you can then begin to keep up with basic maintenance.
Once the tree surgeon has sorted the garden out, you can focus on clearing leaves, keeping the lawn cut, and making sure it doesn’t become overgrown. Before you know it, you’ll have a much better backyard.
Is your lawn well-maintained, or are grass and weeds overgrowing? If the latter, spend some quality time getting that under control. This also means tending larger plants, such as bushes and trees. If they’re dead, pull them out. If they need some love, trim and water them.
If you have any outdoor furniture or a deck, you should also inspect that. If it’s old, falling apart, or rotting, consider investing in some new pieces.
By getting the basics under control, you’ll have a better eye for other areas of improvement.
2. Look for Ways to Improve Your Patio or Deck
A deck or patio is one of the most important pieces in your backyard. If you don’t have one and have space, now’s the time to get one!
Although it can be tempting to try and build a DIY one yourself, working with a professional company will ensure that it’s high-quality and long-lasting.
If the patio you have is small or falling apart, make a decision as to what to do about it. Is it worth repairing or adding onto, or would it be easier to tear it down and build a new one?
Consider the material that you’ll use to build it, as well. Concrete is the cheapest but doesn’t look as nice as wood or stone.
3. Light it up
As you’re adding to your backyard, look for areas that need light. You can use lighting to create an intimate and relaxing atmosphere.
Lanterns and string lights are great at this, as they aren’t too harsh or bright. They pair nicely with dinner parties and social gatherings.
If you’re worried about the effect new lights will have on your electric bill, look into using solar lights. There are many different solar options to choose from, such as string lights, accent lighting, and walkway lighting.
Keep in mind that you want to use outdoor lighting to draw attention to visually-appealing areas. Although the old shed needs light, don’t make it a focal point.
4. Bring the Comfort of Your Living Room Outside
To make the most of the space of your house, consider creating an outdoor living room or seating area. These also work to give your house new entertainment areas.
If you have a covered patio, renovating what’s underneath can be a good starting point. Look into buying an outdoor rug, furniture, and a table.
An outdoor seating area doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Start with a few simple pieces of furniture, then expand it over time.
5. Add a Fire Pit
Adding a fire pit can be a great addition to your outdoor seating area or any other place in your backyard. They are affordable and work great for get-togethers and date nights.
If you’re on a budget and you or someone you know is handy, there are kits you can buy that will allow you to construct a DIY fire pit. If you know what to buy, you can also visit a local hardware store and pick up the materials to build it yourself. In other cases, work with a professional company.
An outdoor fireplace is a more expensive option but is one that’ll increase the visual appeal of your yard. In some instances, it can also increase your home’s value.
6. If You Have Space, Add a Pool
Who doesn’t dream of having a luxurious swimming pool, perfect for family, friends, and evening dips?
Pools can be great focal points for backyards. Surrounding it with shrubbery, seating, and other furniture will give you the perfect setup for get-togethers.
A pool can be expensive, but can also ultimately add value to your home. Consider it an investment that’ll benefit you for years, and that can ultimately come back when you sell your house.
Not all pools need to be expensive. There are many quality above-ground pools you can choose from, which are cheaper than in-ground ones. Check out this article if you’re wondering: what is the best quality above-ground pool?
7. Invest in Flowers and Shrubbery
You can have all the best furniture, lighting, and decorations and still have a backyard that feels cold and lifeless. Why is that?
One of the best backyard design tips is to make sure you have enough flowers, shrubs, and trees. This doesn’t mean planting them in every open space, but your backyard should look like a yard.
If you don’t have a green thumb, there are many plants that are hardy and don’t require much attention. Planting some may give your space the “pop” it needs.
Remember, your backyard is an outdoor space. It should feel like you’re in nature!
It’s Time for a Backyard Makeover
Although it may seem time-consuming and expensive, it’s not difficult to give your home the backyard makeover it deserves. By doing so, you’ll be able to better appreciate your home, as well as the people around you.
For more home design articles, check out some of our other articles.
