Getting cozy in the living room on a chilly night has its upside, but being able to lounge in a stylish and inviting backyard any time of year might be even better. Your backyard space can be just as cozy and appealing as your indoor space, but it offers the added benefits of nature and fresh air. You just have to determine which kinds of projects will really make a difference and transform your backyard into a sanctuary.
Your dream backyard might be easier and more affordable than you think. You may envision a manicured landscape, a tropical oasis, or maybe you want more of a cottage feel. Whichever look you choose, here are five stylish backyard updates to help you get started.
1. Vertical Garden(s)
Vertical gardening is a great way to add greenery without taking up floor or ground space, and its versatility doesn’t end there. You can build a DIY vertical garden with repurposed materials like pallets or you can have a professional build the structure and you do the planting. Your vertical garden(s) can be adapted to your style and personality.
Gardening up instead of out has its benefits. In addition to saved space, vertical gardens can serve as screens for privacy or to block noise as well as provide coziness and a sense of enclosure.
2. Awnings
If you need sunblock solutions in your backyard, awnings might be a solid investment. Sitting in the hot sun on a deck or having to avoid the deck altogether due to rain is wasting your backyard’s potential. From DIY awning projects to professionally installed retractable markiser this is an update that can make a difference in many ways, including:
- Creating another entertainment space
- Adding value to your home
- Control of your space (retractable)
- Reducing energy costs
- Protecting your home and family from UV rays, rain, and snow
Awnings come in many styles, colors, and materials and have come a long way technologically to provide the atmosphere you want to create.
3. Pergola
Building a pergola in your backyard is a style-versatile project that can add shade and enclosure, cover for your hot tub, or define an outdoor space for another purpose. There are a variety of shapes and looks to choose from, both deck pergolas and free-standing ones.
For DIY pergola projects, you can go simple or challenging, but make sure you have a perspective on your carpentry skills before taking one on. You can also add special features to your pergola, such as retractable panels to control the sun and shade.
4. Water Feature
Adding a water feature to your backyard – such as a fountain, waterfall, or pond – can provide an inviting habitat for plant and animal life, as well as create a sense of peace and harmony in your outdoor space. You can go whimsical with garden gnomes, serene with a quiet waterfall, or you can create a lush water garden with blooming plants for butterflies and dragonflies.
5. Stone Path
This can be a very simple project to a very advanced one, depending on your style and budget. The possibilities are endless. You can choose from a variety of ‘fillers’ like pebbles, crushed granite, or elfin thyme, as well as many different types of stone, such as flagstone or even brick. Features can include steps, interesting curves, and any style garden you choose to showcase with your path.
Your backyard should be a major attraction to your guests, not one to ignore. These stylish updates are sure to catch everyone’s attention.