How can I make my small backyard look nice?

Divide the Space Some experts describe it as creating more than one room. For example, create an outdoor dining area but place lounging furniture in a separate space. Use planters, small walls, linear fountains or simply alternate surfaces (pavers, decking, gravel, artificial turf) to define the outdoor rooms.

How do I maximize my small backyard?

Avoid clutter . The more elements your yard has, the tighter it will feel. Instead, try to use built-in seating, incorporate clean lines, avoid bulky furniture and keep plantings under control. “If there's one thing that will get out of control and take over a small space, it's a plant that's too happy,” Arthur says.

How do I make my backyard perfect?

11 Steps to a Better Backyard Build an arbor or a pergola. ... Add a walkway. ... Locate utilities before digging in. ... Know the mature size of a plant at planting time. ... Design primary paths to be at least 5 feet wide. ... Don't crowd pathways or patios. ... Allow at least 3 feet of open space around patio furniture to ensure easy passage. More items...

What is a backyard makeover?

Backyard makeovers are creative and fun to do, and they transform more of your property into usable space . Entertain guests, let your pets roam, or enjoy your private outdoor space in solitude. Keep it basic with new grass and a fire pit or scale it up with elaborate hardscaping, DIY backyard decks, and water features.

How do I make my backyard look professionally landscaped?

To make your backyard look professionally landscaped plan in a focal point, such as yard art or garden fountain ideas, or a series of them, as a garden designer would . This could also include a feature such as a pretty shed, or a living element, such as a tree or group of shrubs.

How much does it cost to build a backyard oasis?

The national average cost of an outdoor living space is about $7,670, with a typical range between $4,150 and $11,185 . The cost of a specific project can range from $300 for a simple hot tub to $18,000 for a green house. Other popular outdoor improvements include a covered patio and kitchen with a fire place.

How do I make my outdoor space feel cozy and more inviting?

Some of my favorites include: grouping a trio of multiple size lanterns on the floor. hanging string lights. adding candles (whether real or battery operated) for a pretty evening glow. adding an outdoor fireplace or fire pit. using a coffee table, bench, or a stack of outdoor cushions for extra seating. More items...

How do you make a whimsical backyard?

Start by repurposing everyday items into charming garden features . Old teacups become whimsical planters, while vintage ladders serve as enchanting trellises. Embrace your artistic side by painting rocks with vibrant colors or crafting DIY fairy houses to nestle among the greenery.

How can I make my backyard look cozy?

9 Tips on How to Create a Cozy Outdoor Living Space Choose a Spot. ... Choose Furniture. ... Add Lighting. ... Incorporate an Outdoor Rug. ... Surround the Area With Potted Flowers and Floral Bouquets from the Garden. ... Add Throws and Pillows. ... Bring an Outdoor Table in the Center of the Space. ... Add an Outdoor Firepit to the Living Space. More items... Jun 21, 2021

10 Small Backyard Ideas To Update Your Outdoor Oasis (2024)

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Key Takeaways

Transform your small backyard with creative ideas like a tranquil Zen garden retreat, compact outdoor furniture, and distinctive landscaping.
Maximize your outdoor space by incorporating an outdoor kitchen nook, a refreshing pool, and bird-friendly features.
Elevate your small backyard with artistic focal points, a shaded pergola retreat, enchanting outdoor lighting, and a DIY outdoor cinema.

A small backyard can often leave homeowners feeling perplexed about how to make the most of every inch. The challenges of a petite outdoor space may include limited room for greenery, insufficient seating, and a sense of confinement. However, such constraints are precisely what can fuel the fires of your imagination.

In the absence of acres of land, you'll discover that small backyards encourage innovation, sparking the desire to reimagine and optimize your outdoor haven. Clever small backyard ideas can turn your space into a captivating outdoor retreat. Get ready to embark on the journey to maximizing your outdoor space, one step at a time.

1 Create a Tranquil Zen Garden Retreat

Craft a peaceful backyard paradise for relaxation and mindfulness

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Image credits:Aleksandr Kondratovvia Shutterstock

Craft a peaceful escape in your small yard with a stunning zen garden. A minimalistic garden design encourages relaxation and mindfulness, making it an ideal space for contemplation and stress relief. To achieve the best results:

Start with rocks, sand, and simple plantings to establish a serene atmosphere. Opt for a vertical garden to add height.
Select a diverse array of climate-suited plants, play with various textures and colors, and consider adding herbs for both beauty and practicality.
Incorporate elements that represent stability and water flow, like a sand pattern. Add plants such as bonsai trees and bamboo to enhance the aesthetic.

Regular maintenance is essential to preserve the zen-like serenity of your garden. Keep the elements tidy, and ensure that plants are well-cared for to maintain the garden's tranquil atmosphere.

2 Add Outdoor Furniture

Maximize seating with smart choices

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Image credits:Yan lukitovia Shutterstock

Create a cozy space for outdoor living by investing in space-saving outdoor furniture. When working with a small backyard, every inch counts, and the right furniture choices can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. You can use folding tables, benches with built-in storage, or ottomans that double as side tables. There are some creative things you can do to enjoy your outdoor furniture even more:

Consider a dining set with a compact table and chairs that you can tuck away to save space when you're not entertaining.
To add both comfort and extra seating options, get creative with cushions and throw pillows.
Prioritize quality over quantity when selecting outdoor furniture.
Choose items made using the best wood for outdoor furniture to ensure longevity.
Don’t forget to clean your outdoor furniture at least once a season to keep it looking good.
Use outdoor furniture covers to extend your furniture’s lifespan.

Winterize your furniture to keep it functional and attractive for a long time.

3 Landscape Creatively

Design distinct areas for various activities

10 Small Backyard Ideas To Update Your Outdoor Oasis (3)

Image credits: Hannamariah via Shutterstock

Transform your small backyard with stunning small backyard landscaping ideas. Some tips that work best for compact spaces include:

Divide the area into functional zones, creating separate areas for dining, lounging, and gardening by using features like rugs, pavers, or planters to delineate the spaces.
Select low-cost yet visually appealing plants and shrubs of your liking.
Opt for native species that require minimal maintenance.

Avoid overcrowding and keep each functional zone simple and uncluttered to maintain a sense of openness.

4 Create an Outdoor Kitchen Nook

Choose compact kitchen equipment for your backyard

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Image credits: Ozgur Coskun via Shutterstock

Maximize your small outdoor space by incorporating an outdoor kitchen nook with a compact grill, prep area, and dining space. It's an addition allows you to enjoy alfresco dining and cooking without the need for a vast backyard.

Opt for a portable grill or a built-in unit.
Use folding or stacking furniture to save space when not in use.
Enhance the comfort of your outdoor kitchen by installing a shade structure like a canopy or umbrella.
Make efficient use of cabinets and vertical space by incorporating wall-mounted shelves or hooks for storage.

Ensure proper ventilation and safety measures when setting up an outdoor kitchen nook, and adhere to local regulations and guidelines.

5 Add a Backyard Pool

Create a refreshing and relaxing oasis with a compact pool

10 Small Backyard Ideas To Update Your Outdoor Oasis (5)

Image credits: Perry Correll via Shutterstock

6 Build Bird-Friendly Backyard Haven

Invite local bird species to your small backyard

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Image credits:Gareth1953 All Right Now via Openverse

Turn your small backyard into a bird-friendly oasis by providing bird feeders.

Choose the right location for your bird feeder, ensuring it's safe from predators and offers easy access for birds.
Use a variety of seeds to attract a diverse range of birds to your feeder.
Birds need water as much as food. Providing a birdbath or shallow water source near your feeder will further entice your feathered friends.
Invest in birdhouses to encourage nesting and create an enjoyable space for bird-watching.

Maintain the hygiene of your bird feeder by cleaning it when it gets dirty. A clean feeder keeps birds healthy and returning to your yard.

7 Add Artistic Features

Elevate your small backyard with artistic focal points

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Image credits: Wirestock Creators via Shutterstock

Enhance your small backyard with artistic focal points. Get creative!

Choose sculptures, art installations, or unique decorative elements that resonate with your style.
Add decorative elements like a fountain, wind chimes, or a vibrant mosaic table to add vibrancy and charm to your outdoor area.
Ensure that you install your artistic focal points securely to prevent accidents or damage.

Protect artistic features from weather-related damage to maintain their artistic appeal over time.

8 Build a Pergola Retreat

Create a shaded and stylish retreat

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Image credits:akov64via Shutterstock

Design a shaded and stylish retreat in your small backyard by adding a pergola. Pergolas offer relief from the sun and create an intimate outdoor space.

Choose the ideal spot for your pergola based on your outdoor needs and aesthetics. Consider factors like sun exposure, views, and proximity to your home.
When building a pergola, the choice of material is crucial. Opt for durable and weather-resistant options such as cedar, redwood, or vinyl to ensure longevity.
Customize the pergola with climbing plants like creeping vines or wisteria for a natural canopy effect.
Furnish the area with comfortable seating and outdoor decor to make it a cozy and inviting hideaway.

Ensure the pergola is securely constructed to withstand the elements, and consider seasonal maintenance to keep it looking its best.

9 Create Outdoor Lighting Ambiance

Add LED lights to make your evenings magical

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Image credit: Ground Picture via Shutterstock

Extend the usability of your small backyard by incorporating creative outdoor lighting.

Use string lights, lanterns, or solar-powered garden lights to create an enchanting atmosphere.
Position lighting strategically to highlight key features like plantings, pathways, or artistic focal points, turning your outdoor space into a magical retreat after dark.
Enhance security and convenience with motion-activated lighting. Motion sensor lights are perfect for pathways, entrances, and dark corners.

Ensure that outdoor lighting fixtures are weather-resistant and positioned securely to prevent accidents and protect them from the elements.

10 Consider a DIY Outdoor Cinema

Enjoy Movie Nights in Your Backyard

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Image credits: Romsavka via Shutterstock

A DIY outdoor cinema is one of the most affordable small backyard ideas you can try. For a perfect set up of the space:

Utilize a blank wall or a portable screen for projection.
Set up comfortable seating and ambient lighting to enhance the viewing experience.
Install a sound system for clear and immersive audio.
Ensure the safety of electrical equipment and consider local noise regulations for outdoor entertainment.

Transforming your small backyard into an inviting outdoor oasis is an achievable project with the right planning and creative ideas. Whether you decide to create a lush garden, incorporate multifunctional furniture, creative landscaping ideas, or add a small kitchen, there’s no shortage of small backyard ideas that will help you make the most of your space. With a bit of effort and attention to detail, your compact outdoor area can become a charming retreat for relaxation and enjoyment.