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12 Backyard Landscaping Ideas to Create Your Outdoor Oasis
Mar 08, 2021
Everyone loves patio weather, so make sure you’re ready to enjoy it on yours with these 12 landscaping ideas for your backyard! As the temperature rises, the flowers bloom, the sun shines and we spend more time outside, the best way to enjoy it all is from the comfort of your backyard oasis. If your outdoor space isn’t quite up to snuff yet, it’s time to bring your vision of a springtime outdoor oasis to life.
Creating an outdoor sanctuary is truly the best way to take advantage of all that spring (and eventually summer) has to offer. And it won’t take you all season long. With these clever tips inspired by the season’s latest trends, you can easily and affordably turn your tired yard into a patio paradise.
1. Maintain a Design Theme from the Indoors Out
Think of your patio as an outdoor extension of your home, and consider furniture and design elements that align with your home’s interior. If your design style is modern and sleek, consider outdoor furniture that conveys the same style with symmetrical, clean lines. Got more of a rustic farmhouse feel going on? Consider furniture that carries over that same style.
No matter how big or small the space, you can find beautiful furniture that’s functional, inspiring, relaxing and complementary to your home’s current style.
2. Add a Fun Focal Point
Whether it’s a fire pit, small dining table, rug, conversation area or other design element, you’ll want to designate a focal point and use it as the centerpiece of your backyard living area. To save some money, consider repurposing items from inside your house (if they are built to sustain outdoor elements). Not only will they be beautiful to look at, but they will also add an element of activity for family and guests.
Focal points like these are also great long-term investments because you’ll use and love them for years to come.
3. Create Privacy for Peace of Mind
The best backyard spaces are the ones that make you feel like you’re on vacation. Nothing takes you out of that peaceful mindset faster than prying neighbors or the ability to be spotted by passersby.
When creating an outdoor sanctuary, add elements into your landscape that will provide a sense of enclosure and eliminate exposure. A solid fence, trees, bushes, flowers or other landscaping will go a long way in creating privacy and peace of mind, so you can really relax.
4. Consider Creating Shady Spots
Of course, part of being in nature outside is feeling the sun’s warm rays shining down so calming in and of itself. However, relief from the sun when it gets a little too hot for your liking (or skin safety) is crucial.
As it starts to heat up in the spring and summer months, you’ll want to have some shady spots where you can read a book, take a nap or enjoy a meal outside. Whether it’s designing a patio around a mature tree or shopping for umbrellas or awnings, even those who love the sun and heat will appreciate an occasional respite from it.
5. Be Ready for the Rain
In many areas, it rains quite a bit in the spring (you know what they say about April showers). It’s good for your garden and potted plants, but not so much for your grill, your patio furniture or your outdoor fun.
You don’t have to let the rain dampen your spirits when you’ve got an awning (some offer a retractable option), a gazebo or other outdoor structure to cover your patio and block out the elements. This kind of protection can also add a huge layer of luxury and beauty to your outdoor oasis. Bonus: you’d be adding that all-important shade.
6. Light It Up
When the sun goes down, it’s going to be important to have nice outdoor lighting if you don’t want the party to end. Whether it’s draping fun, twinkly string lights all over your backyard, installing porch lights or decorating with outdoor lamps and lanterns, backyard lighting creates amazing ambiance in addition to necessary illumination. If you have the space, don’t forget to add lighting for walkways, steps and stairs to ensure safety.
7. Go for a Pool or Hot Tub
You don’t need a pool or hot tub to complete a luxurious backyard retreat. However, it’s something to consider if you really want to go all out, so we’d be remiss to exclude them from the list.
Pools are perfect for warm spring days and hot summers when you need to cool off, and hot tubs are like the cherry on top of a spa-like backyard. If budget is an issue (as it is for most people), there are also portable and above-ground options that will do the trick.
8. Add a Garden
If you're looking to add even more beauty and relaxation to your backyard oasis, consider adding a garden. Flowers, plants and herbs can provide stunning visuals, a delicious scent and a place to relax and enjoy nature. Not only will a garden make your backyard more inviting, but it can also be a great source of fresh produce for your meals.
When deciding what to plant in your garden, think about what you and your family like to eat. If you have kids, get them involved in the process and let them choose some of their favorite fruits and vegetables to grow. Sunflowers, tomatoes and herbs like lavender or rosemary are all great options that are easy to care for.
Once your garden is planted, make sure to spend time in it each day. Take a break from work or school and relax with a good book, have a picnic lunch or just sit and listen to the birds sing. You'll love spending time in your backyard oasis even more when it includes a beautiful garden!
9. Create a Sitting Area
One of the best ways to make your backyard oasis even more inviting is to add a sitting area. Whether it’s a few chairs and a table, a comfortable bench or a loveseat, a place to sit and relax will be appreciated by everyone.
Adding some soft cushions or pillows will make the seating even more comfortable, and you can choose fabric that matches your décor or go for something fun and funky. A few well-placed plants or flowers nearby will complete the look and make it feel like an true outdoor living space.
10. Install a Water Feature
Adding a water feature to your backyard oasis is a great way to add beauty, relaxation and peace. Whether it’s a small pond with some fish or a big waterfall, the sound of running water can be incredibly soothing. It can also help to create the feeling of being in nature, which is why so many people choose to install them in their yards.
If you’re thinking about installing a water feature, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure you have enough space for it – it needs to be large enough that it doesn’t feel cramped or crowded. Second, think about how you want the water to flow. If you want something that looks more like a natural creek or riverbed, make sure the path of the water is clear and unobstructed. Finally, consider what type of water feature would best fit your personality and style. There are all kinds of options available these days, from ponds and fountains to bubbling urns and spouting whales!
11. Hang Birdhouses or Feeders
If you want to attract birds to your backyard oasis, one of the best things you can do is install a birdhouse or feeder. Not only are they a fun addition, but they also provide birds with a place to rest and eat. Plus, watching birds flit around in your backyard is a great way to relax and enjoy nature.
There are all kinds of different birdhouses and feeders available, so you can choose one that fits your personality and style. If you want something simple, a basic birdhouse or feeder will do the trick. However, if you want something more decorative, there are plenty of options available that will add some extra flair to your yard.
When choosing a birdhouse or feeder, make sure to keep the size of the birds in mind. Some houses and feeders are designed for smaller birds like finches or sparrows, while others are meant for larger birds like blue jays or cardinals. Be sure to select one that will be comfortable for the types of birds you hope to attract.
11. Create a Fire Pit
A backyard oasis isn’t complete without a cozy fire pit to gather around on cool evenings. If you’re thinking about adding one to your yard, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, make sure you have enough space for it – it needs to be large enough that everyone can comfortably gather around it. Second, think about the type of fire pit you want. Do you want something that’s permanent or something that can be easily moved? And finally, consider what type of material you want the pit to be made out of. There are all kinds of different materials available, from stone and brick to metal and concrete.
Once you’ve decided on the perfect fire pit for your backyard oasis, all you need is a good supply of wood and some marshmallows!
12. Install Lights
Installing lights in your backyard can add a touch of elegance and sophistication, not to mention extra safety and security. Whether you choose to install traditional outdoor lights or something more decorative, like string lights or lanterns, the effect will be sure to impress your guests. And if you have children or pets, it’s especially important to have well-lit areas in your yard so they don’t trip or wander off in the dark.
When it comes to installing backyard lights, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure you have enough space for them – they need to be spread out enough that the entire yard is lit up. Second, think about what type of lighting you want. Do you want something bright and functional or something more decorative? Finally, consider how much power you want the lights to use. Some lights run on solar power, while others require an outlet or generator.
Elevate Your Backyard Area on Any Budget
Now that you’re armed with these budget-friendly design tips and tricks, you can set the staycation tone and create the springtime outdoor space of your dreams by the time the warm weather arrives. The best part is that when it comes to your furniture budget, you can relax there, too. Shop with us, and our lease-to-own options will give you a great alternative to financing the furniture you need to make it happen – all without credit*.