12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (2024)

Outdoor spaces offer a place to rest and regroup, eat and entertain, and so much more. Whether you want a simple and functional layout or you’re after something more extensive, our designers have tons of modern backyard ideas to take your space to the next level. Check out some of our favorite designs below.

Dreaming of overhauling your outdoor space? We’re here to help you make your design dreams a reality. Learn about our virtual exterior design services.
12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (1)

#1 // Backyard Oasis

Our designers can use a plethora of modern backyard ideas to turn your space into an outdoor oasis. See above for an example. Each section of this backyard hardscape is surrounded by beautifully curated landscaping, so no matter where you relax, the setting is serene. From the stone and plants to the dipping pool and the outdoor fireplace, this yard embraces the elements in a breathtaking way.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (2)

#2 // A Space for Everything

Organization is key when it comes to modern backyard ideas. For this outdoor space, our designers created zones by separating each area. There’s a fireside spot ideal for socialization, a lower deck curated toward lounging, and the upper balcony is fully equipped for outdoor dining.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (3)

#3 // Room for Relaxation

If you want to use your backyard as a place to unwind and reset, you’re in luck: there are plenty of modern backyard ideas that make room for relaxation a top priority. In this rendering, our designers created three different lounge areas, perfect for resting along with entertaining and spending time with family and friends.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (4)

#4 // Embrace the Environment

Looking for modern backyard ideas with no grass? Here’s some inspiration for you. From its warm, neutral color scheme to the wood retaining wall and pergola and different types of stones used to cover the ground, this design exudes a peaceful desert vibe. We included plenty of plants amidst the hardscape, creating a southwestern sanctuary.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (5)

#5 // Indoor-Outdoor Flow

If you’re on the hunt for modern backyard ideas that embrace functionality when moving from indoors to out, look no further. Our designers crafted a seamless layout for this backyard, so each space can be easily accessed.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (6)

#6 // Layer the Landscape

Our designers created a visually compelling layered look for this backyard. We filled the slope in with mulch, plants, boulders, and landscape lighting and used staggered stairs to connect the patio to the yard.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (7)

#7 // Cover the Ground

If lawn care isn’t your favorite pastime, modern backyard ideas with no grass might be better suited to your design goals. For this backyard, our designers covered the ground with several different materials. Mixing wood with stone, mulch, concrete, and pavers brings in just the right amount of contrast to elevate the aesthetic.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (8)

#8 // Use Your Deck Space

This low deck runs the length of the home, so there’s plenty of space to enjoy. Because the deck is so low, railings aren’t necessary for safety, which opens the layout. This backyard gives off a warm, welcoming aura ideal for both relaxing and entertaining.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (9)

#9 // Stagger the Layout

The layered flower beds, balcony spaces, and seating area in this yard all work together for an intentional modern space. Notably, opting for the same brick borders throughout the hardscape brings cohesion to this gorgeous backyard.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (10)

#10 // Separate the Yard from the Patio

Dividing the grass part of this yard from the patio not only looks appealing, but it keeps the patio cleaner. Our designers used an elevated flower bed to keep the spaces separate.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (11)

#11 // Optimize Landscaping

This modern backyard illustrates a smart, appealing use of landscaping. While the covered patio is full of seating and dining areas, a great deal of the yard is filled with beautiful plants, planters, stones, and boulders.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (12)

#12 // Plan Around the Pool

If a pool is part of your backyard dreams, our designers will help you plan around it. Above, the pool isn’t just a feature, but is instead the central hub of the yard. The lounge and dining spaces are conveniently located around the pool, and the steps from the upper patio lead right to the pool area for easy access.

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (13)

Looking forward to looking back?

If your backyard is in need of a modern overhaul, there are countless ways to make it happen. Our designers can help you visualize your goals and make a plan to give you the backyard you’ve been longing for.

Feeling inspired to revamp your backyard? Brick&batten will help you every step of the way. From making a plan to providing a list of suggested materials, we’ve got you covered. Get started today.

Subscribe for more content like this!

12 Modern Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space | brick&batten (2024)

FAQs

How can I make my outdoor space more usable? ›

24 Ways To Make Your Outdoor Space More Inviting
  1. 24 Ways to Make Your Outdoor Space More Inviting.
  2. #1. Add A Beautiful Shelter.
  3. #2. Drop Some Aesthetic Curtains.
  4. #3. Add Some Privacy.
  5. #4. Add Plenty of Lights.
  6. #5. Keep Some Cool Furniture.
  7. #6. The Greener the Better.
  8. #7. Fit in a Dining Space.

How do I modernize my yard? ›

11 Backyard Makeover Ideas to Upgrade Your Space
  1. Tile Your Patio. While slabs are a practical patio surface, they're not particularly stylish. ...
  2. Build a Pergola. ...
  3. Plant New Flower Beds. ...
  4. Install a Water Feature. ...
  5. Construct a Privacy Wall. ...
  6. Add an Outdoor Shower. ...
  7. Lay a Pathway. ...
  8. Hang Twinkle Lights.
Mar 21, 2023

How can I make my backyard more interesting? ›

25 Fun Backyard Design Ideas
  1. Bocce ball court. Often what makes a backyard fun is a feature that brings people together socially for a little light competition. ...
  2. Putting green. ...
  3. Cornhole. ...
  4. Treehouse. ...
  5. Tent. ...
  6. Play structure. ...
  7. Outdoor gym. ...
  8. Yoga or meditation space.

What makes an outdoor space cozy? ›

Whether you have a small patio or a large deck, making the space feel secluded can actually give it a more cozy feel. You can do this by adding something like a pergola, outdoor draperies, or a large fence. Tall shrubs and bushes are also a pretty way to enclose the space.

How do you create an outdoor living space on a budget? ›

Simple options—adding cozy lighting, perking up your furniture with a fresh coat of paint, adding temporary container gardens—are low-cost ways to make a big impact.

How to fix a boring backyard? ›

How to Transform Your Boring Backyard Into an Exciting Outdoor Space
  1. Add a Patio as the Heart of your Space. ...
  2. Build a Deck. ...
  3. Incorporate an Outdoor Kitchen. ...
  4. Cover Your Outdoor Space with a Pavilion. ...
  5. Light Up Your Outdoor Space with Landscape Lighting. ...
  6. Add a Fire Feature. ...
  7. Mix in Recreation Spaces.
Feb 28, 2023

How can I make my yard look good on a budget? ›

20 Cheap Landscaping Ideas to Improve Your Yard
  1. Add a Walkway.
  2. Save With Perennials.
  3. Spread Some Mulch.
  4. Plant Flowers Around Your Mailbox.
  5. Plant a Tree Sapling.
  6. Raise Your Garden Bed.
  7. Repurpose Items as Planters.
  8. Landscape with Lighting.
6 days ago

How do you landscape a large yard on a budget? ›

Before purchasing pricey plants or hiring a professional landscaping company, consider these 10 cheap landscaping ideas to save money while designing an attractive yard.
  1. Add Mixed Planting Beds.
  2. Plant Groundcover.
  3. Choose Easy-Growing Perennials.
  4. Opt for Affordable Hardscaping.
  5. Install DIY Water Features.
  6. Plant Native Species.
Aug 1, 2023

How do I make my outdoor space usable in the winter? ›

Chill outdoors without getting chilly.
  1. With winter and all its chilly glory on the horizon, you might think that your days relaxing in your outdoor living space are over. ...
  2. Place a Fire Pit.
  3. Furnish With Seating Accommodations.
  4. Install Adequate Lighting.
  5. Don't Forget Pillows & Blankets.
  6. Cover It With an Outdoor Shade.

How to design a functional outdoor space? ›

By considering the intended use of the space, creating separate zones or rooms, incorporating a central focal point, thinking about the flow of the space, and considering privacy and views, you can create an outdoor space that is both functional and visually pleasing.

How to utilize patio space? ›

Clever furniture arrangement is all it takes to establish a variety of uses in one outdoor space. For example, in a smaller space, place a bench and dining table closer to a corner; in a larger one, use different textures or rugs to break up dining and relaxing areas.

How much value does outdoor space add? ›

That said, it's estimated that well-designed patios not only add 8-10% home value, but also earn an ROI of over 80%. A better option for most homeowners, however, would be to refinish or repair an existing patio, as repair estimates average around $1,400. This can provide an ROI of nearly 500%.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Cheryll Lueilwitz

Last Updated:

Views: 6300

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (54 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Cheryll Lueilwitz

Birthday: 1997-12-23

Address: 4653 O'Kon Hill, Lake Juanstad, AR 65469

Phone: +494124489301

Job: Marketing Representative

Hobby: Reading, Ice skating, Foraging, BASE jumping, Hiking, Skateboarding, Kayaking

Introduction: My name is Cheryll Lueilwitz, I am a sparkling, clean, super, lucky, joyous, outstanding, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.