Draw guests outdoors with a fire pit. ATTRIBUTION: Exscape Designs (Wikimedia Commons)
Most people have some type of outdoor living space, but few use it to its full potential. Whether you’re working with just a couple hundred square feet or acres of land, consider ways to make the space more functional. By implementing a few creative ideas, your backyard can become a go-to spot to relax, entertain, and partake in your favorite hobbies.
Add a Heat Source
Enjoy your outdoor space throughout the seasons by adding a heat source. An outdoor fireplace is a charming way to warm up your yard and can create an attractive focal point. A portable fire pit is an affordable alternative. Chimineas and patio heaters can also provide warmth in a pinch.
Set up Cozy Seating
Have plenty of seating options available for family or guests. Benches, chaises, furniture sets, and even daybeds can create a comfortable, laid-back vibe. Add a dining table with plenty of chairs so that you can enjoy meals outdoors, too.
Create Garden Tool Storage
Avoid the hassle of running back and forth to the shed for your gardening supplies. Instead, find new storage solutions. A bench in your garden can double as storage for hand tools. Old pallets can also be repurposed in numerous ways to store larger tools such as rakes and shovels.
Separate the Space Into Zones
Give each space in your yard a unique purpose. For example, you may want to use your patio for dining, a section of your yard for a garden, and another area for entertaining.
Add an Outdoor Shower
An outdoor shower can be a convenient addition to any backyard space. Whether you’re washing off after a dip in the pool or cleaning Fido’s muddy paws, you’ll appreciate the extra water source.
Build an Outdoor Kitchen
More than just a barbecue grill, an outdoor kitchen adds a sink, cabinets, and other features for a fully functional cooking space.
Develop a Game Court
If you enjoy playing games outdoors, create a court where guests can gather for a little friendly competition. Add games like horseshoes, ladder toss, giant Jenga, or miniature golf.
Add a Roof
Build a roof over the seating in your backyard for privacy and to protect against the elements. Consider adding a roof over your patio or deck. If you want to allow the sunshine in, a pergola can be an attractive feature that doubles as a place for climbing vines and plants to grow.
Display a Vertical Garden
Don’t have room for a full garden in your backyard? Build a vertical flower display against a wall or shed. Paint an old pallet and add small flower containers to the inside to show off your green thumb.
Design a Scenic Walkway
Add paths throughout your yard to make the space easier to access. Pathways leading to secluded sitting spots in the garden or near a pond can make exploring your backyard more enjoyable. Use bricks, large flat rocks, or gravel for longevity.