18 Great Backyard Landscaping Ideas for Your Outdoor Space
Great backyard landscaping ideas for your outdoor space! You don’t need a large yard to make a big impact with landscaping. There are many ideas, tips and tricks to make your outdoor space feel larger and more inviting.
I’ve gathered some of my favorite backyard landscaping ideas for you to peruse and hopefully find some inspiration for your space!
1. Go big and bold
If you’ve got a large backyard, you’re probably already envisioning big things. But, no matter the size of your space, you can still make a big impact with your landscaping.
In this backyard by Lauren Wills, the large, geometric pavers create a huge statement. Plus, they provide a great contrast to the greenery and add a modern touch to the space.
2. Create a low-maintenance landscape
Low-maintenance landscaping is a popular choice for many homeowners. After all, who wants to spend all their free time mowing the lawn and weeding the garden?
If you want to create a low-maintenance landscape in your backyard, start by choosing plants that are native to your area. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, so they require less water and fertilizer than non-native plants.
You can also use hardscaping features, like patios, decks, and walkways, to reduce the amount of lawn and garden space in your backyard. Not only will this make your landscape easier to maintain, but it can also create a more functional outdoor living area.
3. Build a treehouse
Treehouses aren’t just for kids. Building a treehouse in your backyard is a great way to add an extra hangout space, whether for your kids or for yourself.
You can even add a deck and a few chairs to create a fun outdoor living space.
4. Add a water feature
Water features are a great way to add a sense of calm to your outdoor space. They can also be a great way to add a sense of movement and sound to your backyard.
From fountains and waterfalls to ponds and streams, there are many different types of water features to choose from. You can even add a small reflecting pool to your backyard to create a sense of serenity.
5. Create an outdoor living room
Who says a porch has to be in the front of the house? This outdoor living area is the perfect spot for a porch swing, a pair of rocking chairs, and a cozy outdoor rug. The built-in outdoor kitchen and dining area are the perfect place for a summer cookout or alfresco dinner.
The backyard of this Charleston home by A Blade of Grass is the perfect place to gather with friends and family.
6. Add a fire pit
A fire pit is a great way to add a focal point to your backyard. It’s also a great way to add warmth and light to your outdoor living space.
Fire pits come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, so you can find one that fits your space and your budget. You can also have a custom fire pit built, or you can build your own.
If you’re not sure where to start, a landscape designer can help you find the perfect fire pit for your outdoor space.
7. Add a swimming pool
If you have the space and budget for it, a swimming pool can be an amazing addition to your backyard.
Pools come in many shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that fits your space. You can also add features like a hot tub, slide, or waterfall to make your pool one of a kind.
Swimming pools also come in different types, such as above ground or in-ground. Above ground pools are more budget-friendly and can be installed quickly, while in-ground pools can be customized more and are more permanent.
You can also choose between a saltwater or chlorine pool. Saltwater pools are easier to maintain and are better for your skin and eyes, while chlorine pools are better for killing bacteria and algae.
8. Add a sports court
If you have the space and budget, consider adding a sports court to your backyard. It’s a great way to encourage physical activity and can be used for a variety of sports.
You can even add lines for multiple sports to make the most of your space. This backyard features a basketball court with a volleyball court on one side and a grassy area on the other.
9. Create an outdoor kitchen
One of the hottest backyard landscaping trends is to create an outdoor kitchen. Whether you just want to have a grill, or you want a full kitchen with a sink, refrigerator, and oven, the choice is yours.
You can even add a bar to your outdoor kitchen for extra seating. Plus, you can add a pergola or gazebo to create a covered space for your kitchen.
10. Add a pergola
A pergola is a great way to define an outdoor dining area or seating area, especially if you don’t want to spend the money on a full outdoor room.
If you want to create a more private feel, you can add outdoor curtains to the sides of the pergola.
11. Add a deck
A new deck can completely change the look and feel of your backyard. It’s a great way to create an outdoor living room without adding an entirely new structure to your home.
Decks can be built at ground level or elevated, and you can use a variety of materials to build your deck, from wood to composite decking to concrete.
12. Add a patio
If you don’t have a patio in your backyard, you’re missing out on a great place to entertain and relax. A patio can be as simple as a concrete slab or as elaborate as a multi-level deck.
You can also choose from a wide variety of materials, including stone, brick, tile, and more. If you want to keep costs down, a gravel patio is a great budget-friendly option.
No matter the size or style of your backyard, a patio will add value to your home and give you a designated space for outdoor living.
13. Create a play area
If you have kids, you’ll want to be sure to include a play area in your backyard design. In this space by Urban Oasis Design and Construction, a mulched area is the perfect spot to set up a play structure.
The play area is surrounded by a low retaining wall, which creates a border for the mulch and also offers additional seating. A small patio area with a table and chairs provides a place for the adults to relax while the kids play.
14. Add a greenhouse
If you love gardening and tending to your plants, a greenhouse is a great way to expand your collection and protect your plants from the elements.
Greenhouses come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, so you can find one that fits your needs and style.
15. Add a garden shed
If you have the space, a garden shed is a great way to add storage and functionality to your backyard. Not only can you store tools, but you can also create a potting station for your plants.
With so many styles and designs to choose from, a garden shed can be a beautiful focal point in your yard. You can also customize the size and features to fit your needs.
16. Add a gazebo
If you love the idea of a pergola but want something that feels a bit more enclosed, a gazebo is a great option.
This screened-in structure adds a touch of elegance to the backyard and is perfect for dining, lounging, or simply enjoying a good book.
17. Add a walkway
A walkway is a great way to break up a large backyard and can also be used to connect two different outdoor living spaces.
This walkway, created by SW Design, is made of a mix of concrete and gravel to give it a more informal look. The walkway is flanked by a border of low-growing plants that can handle foot traffic.
18. Create a secret garden
If you have a large yard, you can create a sense of intimacy and privacy by sectioning off a small area and creating a secret garden. This is a great way to carve out a special space that feels like a retreat.
To create this look, you can use a variety of hedges, trees, and fencing to create a border around the secret garden. Make sure to leave a space for a gate or an arbor that you can use to enter the garden.
Conclusion
We hope you found these backyard landscaping ideas inspiring! After all, your outdoor space is an extension of your home, and it should be a place where you and your family can relax, play, and make memories.
