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There's no retreat you can get to quicker than your own backyard, so why not make it a more serene, welcoming spot? Springtime and autumn will beg for you to be out in it as long as it's not raining, and cool summer evenings and sunny winter days will invite you back too. The good news is that you don't need to spend a lot of money or hire a landscape designer to get your backyard to a dreamier state. Here we share 70 easy ideas to create a restful oasis for you and your entire family (pets included).
Whether your space is larger or small, wooded or open, sunny or shady, dive into this list for DIY inspiration to create unique garden containers for your favorite plants, serene gathering areas (think fire pits and Adirondacks!), cozy lounging spots, pergolas, and even a unique and easy-to-install pool.
Whether you are into gardening or reading in a hammock, filling your yard with kids and adults for outdoor fun or reserving it for a quiet alone time, you're sure to fall in love with at least a few of these ideas that will keep you on budget and give you a creative outlet too. So pick one or two to start with, gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and refresh your backyard for a brand new look this year. It's time to hang the string lights—backyard games, movie nights, and cookouts await!
1
Update with Pops of Bright Color
Take your backyard from bland to bright! Dress up your deck, patio, or balcony with a simple display of colorful pots and birdhouses. Choose vibrantly colored flowers that complement the color of the pots. Use acrylic craft paints or spray paint to make inexpensive clay pots any color you like.
2
Upcycle Unique Containers
If your favorite gardening wellies have sprung a leak, don't toss them! Turn them into cute planters that fit well on the steps to your deck or by a sunny back door. This is also a sweet way to upcycle your child's old wellies that have been outgrown.
3
Build a DIY Window Box
Why spend all that money on window boxes when they're not difficult to make? These pretty boxes offer a simple, elegant look for any style house.
Get the tutorial at Julie Blanner.
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4
Install a Fire Pit
Heat things up this summer with a fire pit—either one you DIY or purchase. And don't forget to stock up on tons of s'mores fixings!
5
Welcome Hummingbirds to Your Garden
We promise: It's so worth it! These little gems will make you smile as the zoom by and perform amazing aerial acrobatics! They beat their wings 50 times per minute and need to eat every 10 to 15 minutes, so providing them with a feeder helps supplement their diets. You can even make your own nectar for them too.
6
Hang a Tree Swing
A tree swing just says summertime! Watch how often you'll want to swing on it yourself!
Get the tutorial at Julie Blanner.
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7
Add Adirondack Chairs
When it comes to lounging around, there's no better place to do it than in an Adirondack chair. That might be why we instantly equate the timeless accessory with summertime. Fill your patio or backyard up with multiple chairs, add some cozy blankets, and you'll be crowned the hostess of the year in no time.
8
Recycle Vintage Tins
Trade your go-to terracotta pots and deck your front porch out in a much more original alternative—old potato chip tins. Scour spots like Etsy and eBay to complete your collection, then pot your favorite blooms for the best porch-worthy touch.
9
Camp Out Under the Stars
This summer just begs for a campout, and why not in your own backyard? It's inexpensive and easy! Map out a designated corner, roll out your sleeping bags, set the mood with string lights, and gather around the fire pit for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows. Even the grownups will have fun with this idea!
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10
Breathe New Life Into Old Pots
Repurpose chipped or unused decorative dishes into mosaic tile pieces, which you can easily affix to plain terracotta pots.
Get the tutorial at The Vintage Butterfly.
11
Establish an Outdoor Movie Spot
Set up shop in the backyard, whether for sunbathing or an outdoor movie party, while cozied up against one of these handmade chairs.
Get the tutorial at Not Just A Housewife.
12
Use an Outdoor Rug to Define a Space
To make an outdoor space truly livable, you want to make it feel cozy and inviting. Add an outdoor rug to your deck or patio, a couple of throws, and some throw pillows so it will feel just as comfy as your living room sofa.
Get the tutorial at Julie Blanner.
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13
Shake Up the Neighborhood Lemonade Stand
With a DIY lemonade stand this well-decorated, you can safely bet your backyard will be the most popular one on the block. Your kiddos can man this adorable station for years to come.
Get the tutorial at Fantabulosity.
14
Plant a Thicket of Shrubs
Need some privacy? Plant a thicket of fast-growing shrubs to screen a view or offer privacy to your deck or patio. Instead of planting one type of plant in a row (which leaves a hole if one suddenly dies!), plant different sizes and types of shrubs in a triangular pattern. It looks more natural and provides better overall coverage anyhow.
Get the tutorial.
15
Hold a High Tea Party
Who says dining al fresco has to be all hot dogs and potato salad? Channel your inner royalty and serve a formal tea worthy of the Queen. Bring out the linens and vintage china, because what are you saving it for?
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16
Plant Some Edibles
There's absolutely no reason you can't use at least a little of your backyard to plant easy-to-grow edibles such as greens, cherry tomatoes, or climbing beans. Make the most of your space, and enjoy food fresh from your own mini-farm!
Get the tutorial.
17
Add Elegant Seating
No need to splurge on a pricey French-style backyard bench when you can easily craft your own. Scout out two identical chairs (the prettier, the better!) from thrift stores, remove the seats and replace with a handmade rectangular base.
Get the tutorial at An Oregon Cottage.
18
Make an Outdoor Bed Swing
Has anything ever sounded more divine than an afternoon nap in the beauty of the outdoors? Make this pallet swing bed, and dream on!
Get the tutorial at The Merrythought.
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19
Build a Backyard Bar
Meet the most organized DIY storage unit ever. With more than enough room for outdoor treats and summer beverages, you have no excuse to not take advantage of your backyard space. It can even double as a potting bench!
Get the tutorial at A Burst of Beautiful.
20
Update Your Outdoor Lighting
Just like anything else around the house, worn, dated outdoor lights don't make your yard feel homey. If it's been a while since you upgraded your outdoor fixtures, it's probably time for an update!
Get the tutorial at Julie Blanner.
Arricca Elin SanSone
Arricca Elin SanSone has written about health and lifestyle topics for Prevention, Country Living, Woman's Day, and more. She’s passionate about gardening, baking, reading, and spending time with the people and dogs she loves.
