Do you ever find that your backyard is lacking that special something? It might be time to put in some work to take your outdoor space to the next level. With the start of summer upon us, it's time to start updating! No matter how much you’re looking to spend, there’s a project that will enhance your backyard to make it feel like your own personal oasis.
If your budget is…
$100 or less
Plant a New Garden
Spruce up your backyard with some colorful flowers or shrubs. You can plant a vertical garden, container garden or rain garden. It doesn’t have to be big, but you want to plant just enough to add color and liveliness to your space.
Check the local papers to see where you can get the best deal on plants. Get your money’s worth by buying perennials. When fall rolls around, take the right steps of putting your garden to bed to make sure they blossom again in the spring.
$100 - $500
Update Old Patio Furniture
A new set of patio furniture can transform your backyard into a cozy getaway for morning coffee or a hot spot for family dinners.
Many retailers will be hosting end-of-summer sales soon, so the next month or so is a great time to buy a new set for a discounted price. Keep it stored in your basement and you’ll be all set once summer rolls around next year!
To keep your patio furniture looking newer for longer, buy decorative seat covers. It’s a lot easier to take a chair cover off to throw in the wash rather than cleaning cushions by hand.
$500 - $1,500
Build a Fire Pit
Is there anything better than the sound of crackling firewood on a cool summer night? A fire pit adds a special atmosphere to your backyard whether you’re entertaining guests or spending a quiet night home with the family.
You can buy a DIY fire pit set from a home improvement store, but if you want to splurge a little, hire a contractor to build one with stones or pavers. It’ll last longer and the quality of work will make a difference.
The homeowners who had this fire pit custom-built included a bench for guest seating or a spot to stash drinks and dishes. Custom-built or not, you’ll be able to enjoy your fire pit for several months if you continue to use it into the fall.
$2,000+
Bring the Kitchen Outside
An outdoor kitchen makes summer entertaining a breeze. You don’t necessarily have to spend thousands upon thousands of dollars on getting a decked out kitchen.
Think about the primary use of the space. Do you want a space where you can cook and eat dinner with the family? Or do you want to host a big get-together every weekend, complete with dinner and drinks?
You can get a basic kitchen setup with the bare essentials like a grill and some counter space. Or you can go all out and get a custom-built kitchen with all the bells and whistles, including a small fridge and sink.
You can transform your backyard into an inviting space on any budget. Don’t let the price limit you—even a small addition like vibrant flowers can enhance your outdoor space!