When it comes to making your home inviting to fall into this season, there's no better thing to do than decorate your doorstep.

I've asked interior designers for their favorite ways to do this and they've come up with a host of adorable ideas that are all budget-friendly. Think cute pumpkins, dreamy lanterns, fall-themed doormats, and more.

If you're looking to bring fall decor ideas into your outside space, these chic yet characterful ideas will come in useful.

1. Go for cozy lighting

Create a cozy ambiance by adding dreamy lighting to your doorstep, such as with outdoor lanterns and candles.

“I love lanterns and think that large brass or bronze outdoor lanterns can create a spooky and/or cozy aesthetic to celebrate the fall festivities,” explains Michael Strollo, director of Dash Fine Arts and principal designer at Strollo Interiors.

“I would arrange a few large lanterns of varying heights on your front doorstep or entryway. Placing them near your door or steps, or lining your driveway or walkway not only helps light the way but also welcomes guests with a glowing ambiance which is perfect for trick-or-treaters and earlier sunsets,” he explains.

For a less spooky vibe, Michael suggests surrounding the base of the candles with small pumpkins, pine cones, acorns, or fall leaves to add texture and emphasize fall.

2. Place pumpkins around your doorstep

You just can’t go wrong with pumpkins and gourds, which are a fun way to add natural texture to your fall front doorstep.

“Pumpkins and gourds are classic fall decorations that come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, making them perfect for any style,” explains Rachel Stringer, design expert at Raleigh Realty.

“You can arrange them in clusters of different sizes and colors for visual interest, using both real and faux pumpkins,” she says.

For a modern twist, Rachel also suggests considering painting them in metallic or pastel shades for a cute fall DIY idea.

3. Lay down a welcoming fall door mat

This has to be the number one easiest way to switch up your doorstep for fall. In fact, I always rotate my doormat to give my doorstep a fresh look for the season.

“You can welcome guests with a seasonal fall door mat featuring fall-themed designs or colors,” says Rachel.

She continues, “Layer a smaller, patterned mat over a larger, neutral one to add depth and texture to your doorstep.”

You can also surround these with outdoor lighting, like Michael mentioned, to add a welcoming glow. “Just make sure to use battery-operated candles for safety,” Rachel says.

4. Reach for seasonal foliage

Another wonderful way to bring color and life to your doorstep is through gorgeous seasonal flowers and foliage.

“Use planters filled with mums, asters, or ornamental kale, arranged symmetrically for a formal look or asymmetrically for a casual, natural feel,” Rachel explains. “Add dried wheat or corn stalks to enhance the autumnal vibe.”

As well as this, you can hang up fall wreaths for an easy yet impactful fall doorstep decor win.

“Opt for wreaths made from autumn foliage, pinecones, or dried flowers,” says Rachel. “You can even DIY your own using materials like burlap, ribbons, and seasonal flowers.” For a unique touch, you can also incorporate small pumpkins or berries into the wreath.

5. Finish with playful touches

Fall is the most fun season of the year. It’s cozy, cute, and filled with characterful motifs that you can bring to your doorstep.

Rachel says, “Incorporate elements like hay bales, corn husks, or scarecrows to enhance the fall theme.”

“Use hay bales as a base to elevate pumpkins or floral arrangements, and add a small scarecrow for a playful touch,” she adds.

Mix and match these elements to create a cohesive look that reflects your personal style.

By combining decor that’s both rustic and functional, you can create a fall doorstep that’s dreamy and inviting.

Want to carry on scoping out seasonal decor? I’ve been loving Anthropologie’s fall collection, which is filled with gorgeous gourds this year.

Will landscaping increase home value? If you're thinking about selling your home, you may be considering how the outdoor space will factor into your valuation, and how much of a bearing it has.

There are plenty of landscaping additions you can make to your front and backyards to improve the look of your home. But will it make a major difference when it comes to the overall value?

We asked gardening and realty experts for their thoughts, plus the best backyard landscaping tips to give your garden a makeover.

Can landscaping increase home value?

Excited to try some low-maintenance garden ideas for a stand-out display? When it comes to the warmer months, it's tempting to transform your outdoor space into a summery oasis. Maybe even grow a cottage garden? But before you break out the hedge clippers, you may want to think about the resale value down the road. Will landscaping projects increase what your home is worth?

"I've been in the landscaping business for over three decades and I can confidently say that well-executed landscaping does increase home value significantly," says Scott McLeod, owner of McLeod Landscaping Inc. 

"Enhancements such as a lush lawn, thoughtfully designed garden beds, and functional hardscape elements like patios and walkways can add curb appeal and make a strong first impression on prospective buyers. Specifically, well-maintained landscaping can boost a home's value by 5% to 15%, depending on the quality and extent of the work," says Scott.

Improving the look of the house from street level with front yard landscaping ideas can have a major impact. Neglecting this space can turn off would-be buyers if they notice a dying lawn. 

"A well-manicured lawn can increase the perceived value of a property by up to 10%. This is because a lush, green lawn can create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, making potential buyers feel more comfortable and inclined to make an offer. Conversely, a neglected or overgrown lawn can be a major turn-off, potentially reducing the property's value by as much as 5%," says Itay Simchi, founder of Proven House Buyers.

Overall, most potential buyers take the front and back yards into consideration when purchasing a home. 

"A study by the National Gardening Association found that 85% of homeowners reported that their garden or yard was an important factor in their decision to buy or sell a home," says Italy.

Landscaping projects to try

So what can you do to improve the look of your yard and attract potential buyers? The good news is there are plenty of DIY landscaping ideas that you can pull off without professional help, from installing a fire pit (this fire pit from Wayfair is well-loved by customers with 4.5 stars and over 1,000 reviews) to building your own planters. 

You can even embrace some tropical landscaping ideas with vibrant flowers and leafy palms. But overall, buyers will look for classic additions that add value, not take away from it. 

"I highly recommend simple improvements like adding colorful flowers or trimming overgrown shrubs and a deck or patio surrounded by lush greenery to boost the value of your home. It shows that the property has been well-cared for and is move-in ready, which can be a major selling point for buyers," says Alex Locklear, a realtor and the founder of NC Cash Homebuyers.

Adding a dining or seating area with outdoor furniture to your backyard is also a great idea for attracting buyers. You don't even have to splash out on pricey furniture — you can snag a whole dining set from Walmart for under $125, complete with a table, umbrella, and four chairs. 

"Features like patios, decks, and fire pits add value to a property and provide additional living space for potential buyers. I recently had a client who was able to sell their home for $10,000 more than the initial asking price due to the addition of a well-designed outdoor living space. It not only increased the aesthetic appeal but also made the property more functional and desirable," says Alex.

But before you get carried away with backyard ideas, make sure you're not installing anything that might incidentally turn people away. "There's a fine line between assets and hindrances when it comes to landscaping's impact. You'll want to avoid anything that could be interpreted as high-maintenance or requiring really specialized care and costs, like overbuilt koi ponds or exotic plants and trees unsuited for our climate," says Rachel Stringer, professional realtor at Raleigh Realty.

Add a few touches while avoiding anything too difficult to take care of is the perfect middle ground for perspective buyers. "The sweet spot is focusing on regional plants and greenery that are relatively low-fuss, yet establish that highly-valued sense of lush, peaceful sanctuary," says Rachel. Knowing which gardening zone you're in can help when choosing which plants to add to your space.

I think regency garden ideas are some of the most elegant out there. They're just perfect for transforming yards big and small into sophisticated havens packed with personality and allure.

I've particularly fallen in love with this style after watching Bridgerton, so I've asked landscaping and home improvement pros for their favorite ways to bring this look to our outdoor spaces. Their tips range from gardening and flower ideas (hello, wisteria!) to adding refined decorative touches.

If you're looking for backyard ideas that are beautiful and eye-catching, a throwback to the gorgeous Regency era will provide plenty of outdoor inspiration for you.

Our top 7 ravishing Regency garden ideas

Whether you want to bring Bridgerton design ideas outdoors or simply want to shake up your exterior style, these gorgeous tips are worth keeping in mind.

Our design pros have recommended useful decor items throughout, so I've curated matching highly-rated picks from trusted retailers to help you start decorating as soon as possible.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Decorate with authentic furniture and decor

To create a cohesive look in your regency garden, I recommend first finding the decor you wish to use, and then decorating around them.

“Furniture and decor are crucial to achieving this look, which is why I suggest opting for wrought-iron benches and classical urns,” says Steve Schumacher, landscaping expert and owner of Boston Landscape Co.

“In one commercial project, we included a central fountain and period-correct seating areas, enhancing the site's historical feel without sacrificing functionality,” he explains.

He also suggests looking for these in antique shops and budget-friendly secondhand furniture stores to create an authentic and unique look.

2. Bring in regency-style flowers

The most beautiful regency gardens often feature structured layouts with carefully chosen flowery focal points. 

Steve says, “I advise bringing in native U.S. plants that mimic the grandeur of regency flora. For example, peonies and hydrangeas can replace roses and foxgloves, offering a similar elegant bloom suitable for American climates while promoting sustainability."

Learning how to take care of hydrangeas is easy, and you can find them at many retailers. For example, the Endless Summer Hydrangea Shrubs from Walmart are best sellers and grow in USDA zones 4 to 9. They are deciduous, meaning they will lose their foliage in fall, but will return again in spring so your efforts won't be a one-hit wonder.

“These flowers not only evoke the romanticism of the era but also provide a delicate fragrance that enhances the garden experience,” adds Tommy Mello, home improvement expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.

3. Add beautiful outdoor lighting

Add a romantic, dreamy glow to your regency garden by placing outdoor lanterns and hanging up string lights.

“Soft, ambient lighting along pathways or around key features like statues or fountains can create a magical atmosphere — perfect for evening strolls or outdoor entertaining,” explains Tommy.

I love the effect of the lanterns in this picture, and the Mercer41 Glass Wall Lantern from Wayfair is similar, lightweight, and easy to clean. We have a full guide on beautiful outdoor lighting ideas if you're interested in seeing more inspirational looks.

4. Try hanging plants on trellises

It wouldn’t be a collection of regency garden ideas without florals and vines, which you can gorgeously drape for a whimsical and enchanting look.

“To further enhance the regency style, consider adding architectural features like pergolas or trellises draped with climbing roses, wisteria, or ivy,” suggests Tommy. “These structures not only provide shade and structure but also create a sense of enclosure and intimacy within the garden."

If you want to try this in a small, rented space, look for a domed trellis, such as the Collections Etc Garden Plant Trellis from Walmart, which is over six feet tall and fits securely into the ground.

5. Create a pretty pathway

One of the best regency garden ideas is creating a path for you and your guests to meander on, so you can truly enjoy your backyard’s beauty.

“Incorporate stone features and symmetrical pathways to echo the regency era's formality,” says Steve. “At Boston Landscape Co, we've successfully used local masonry to create stone pathways and garden beds.” 

Steve has also previously worked on a project where he installed a limestone walkway bordered by boxwood hedges, providing that regency charm. Explore more border ideas in our dedicated guide.

6. Pay attention to greenery

As well as bringing beautiful blooms to your regency garden ideas, it’s also wise to remember to complement these with glorious greenery.

“Boxwood hedges or clipped topiaries can define paths beautifully, adding a formal touch reminiscent of classic regency estates,” Tommy says.

For those looking for low-maintenance backyard ideas, try artificial topiaries such as the Nearly Natural Boxwood Triple Ball Tree from Walmart, which shoppers say has a luscious color and looks real.

7. Keep your design symmetrical

When planning your regency garden ideas, make sure that all your elements look neat and intentional for a harmonious effect.

“Symmetry is paramount in regency design, so consider planting beds and pathways symmetrically aligned,” Tommy suggests.

If this sounds too streamlined to you and you want your English-style garden to be more free-flowing or embrace elements of chaos gardening, cottage garden ideas may be more your style.

Regency garden ideas are easy to bring in, no matter the size of your space or your budget.

“By carefully integrating these elements, you can create a regency garden that not only reflects the timeless elegance of the era, but is also a tranquil oasis,” Tommy finishes by saying.

To complete the look, lawn edging ideas are worth knowing, as every little bit of detail counts in this style of garden.

Knowing common backyard privacy mistakes is key if you're looking to turn yours into a private, tranquil oasis.

Our garden and landscaping experts reveal the nine most common backyard errors and how to avoid falling into these traps to ensure your peace and privacy, which is especially important if your outdoor space is overlooked.

When it comes to backyard privacy ideas, knowing what to avoid can be a really handy starting point that saves you unnecessary hassle — not to mention expense.

Essential backyard privacy mistakes to avoid

When it comes to small backyard ideas, it pays to be aware of potential pitfalls before you rushing into renovating. Our experts detail common backyard privacy mistakes that can undermine your efforts, with detailed tips on how to avoid them.

Where our pros have recommended products, we've sourced high-quality items from trustworthy retailers to help you bring coveted privacy to your backyard oasis.

All prices were correct at time of publication. 

1. Selecting the wrong plants

Choosing plants that aren't suited to your climate or soil is a frequent flyer for backyard privacy mistakes. For example, exotic plants might look attractive but could struggle in your region, leading to patchy coverage or complete plant failure. 

Fast-growing plants such as bamboo might seem like a quick fix, but some varieties can become invasive, spreading beyond your control. Researching and consulting with local nurseries can save you from these pitfalls. 

Instead, opt for native or well-adapted species that will thrive in your US gardening zone.

Ornella Bianco, home improvement specialist at Fixr, says, "So often we see homeowners expect certain plants to provide adequate coverage, only to find they fail to reach sufficient height, or that they just don't thrive in the local climate. In other cases, trees may lose their leaves in the winter or grow too tall and end up blocking sunlight. 

"Researching and selecting tree varieties suited to your climate is crucial. Consult a professional landscaper about native species popular to thrive with minimal maintenance in your area."

Tom Bruzek, land buying specialist at Selling Land Fast, says, "One good solution is to use a layered approach to foundation planting with a mix of groundcovers, shrubs, and taller plants. This creates depth, visual interest and additional privacy in your backyard. 

"Perennial groundcovers like creeping thyme or sedum (also known as stonecrop) provide coverage and reduce maintenance. Hardy shrubs such as hydrangeas or azaleas offer seasonal interest and contribute to privacy. Proper soil preparation and mulching are also important; using organic mulch can improve soil health, retain moisture, and reduce weeds."

Tom recommends this Endless Summer Hydrangea from Walmart for its beauty and the ability to continuously bloom through the season. For its excellent soil condition and nutrient content, Tom recommends Miracle-Gro Potting Soil from Amazon. 

Tom adds, "This thoughtful combination of plants and preparation ensures a robust and aesthetically-pleasing garden foundation."

2. Overcrowding plants

In the quest for instant privacy, it's tempting to plant shrubs and trees too closely together. While this might provide immediate coverage, overcrowding can lead to long-term issues. 

Plants need space to grow both above and below ground. When placed too close, they compete for nutrients and water, resulting in stunted growth and increased susceptibility to disease. 

Tom says, "To avoid overcrowding plants in small spaces, it's essential to measure your area, plan and choose the plant arrangement carefully, considering their mature size and growth rate. 

"Opt for dwarf or compact plant varieties that fit the scale of your space, such as dwarf boxwood shrubs or columnar arborvitae, which are tall and narrow, ideal for limited areas. Additionally, using vertical planters can save ground space by allowing plants to grow upward."

Tom recommends Boxwood Wintergreen Shrubs, available from Target for their compact size and ease of maintenance, and the Outland Living Raised Garden Bed from Amazon, which maximizes space and is perfect for small areas.

Taylor Olberding, co-owner of Heroes Lawn Care, recommends the Thuja Green Giant from Fast Growing Trees. He says, "It's fast-growing and can provide privacy without taking up too much yard space."

He adds, "Whatever plants you opt for, try to position them strategically to block specific areas you want to cover, rather than trying to cover the whole property."

Proper plant spacing, as recommended by horticultural experts, ensures healthy growth and a more sustainable privacy screen.

3. Neglecting trellises

Trellis ideas are often overlooked in backyard privacy plans but these structures not only add height to your garden, they also support climbing plants to create a lush, green vertical garden wall. 

Ornella says, "Failing to include trellises in your backyard is a common oversight. Trellises serve both functional and aesthetic purposes by supporting climbing plants and enhancing privacy. They are great for blocking vision from above or creating a vertical privacy screen."

Neglecting to incorporate trellises means missing out on a vertical dimension that can enhance privacy and aesthetic appeal. Consider plants like ivy, clematis, or jasmine, which can quickly cover a trellis, providing both beauty and seclusion.

The Red Barrel Studio Alamanda Trellis from Wayfair is 87 inches tall and supports a wide variety of climbing plants. It requires assembly, but happy shoppers who reviewed the item an average of 4.7/5 stars say it's easy and quick to install.

4. Installing low-quality fencing

Suitable fence ideas are vital, but opting for low-quality materials can quickly become result in costly backyard privacy mistakes. Cheap fencing might save money upfront but often requires frequent repairs and replacements, especially if you live in a wind or storm-prone area, compromising your privacy and security. 

Tom says, "Investing in high-quality fencing materials is key to ensuring durability and long-term satisfaction. Choose materials like treated wood, vinyl, or composite that resist weathering and last longer. Cedar wood fencing, for example, is naturally resistant to decay and insects (such as wood-eating carpenter ants), making it a reliable choice."

Tom recommends the Alta Forest Products Cedar Fence Picket from The Home Depot due to its natural resistance to decay and insects, and the Veranda White Vinyl Fence Panel Kit, also from The Home Depot which is durable and low-maintenance, providing excellent privacy.

By investing in high-quality outdoor materials like cedar or vinyl, which offer durability and low maintenance, you can ensure your privacy solution stands the test of time.

5. Underutilizing vertical space

The vertical space in your backyard offers numerous opportunities for enhancing privacy, yet many homeowners fail to make the most of it. 

Beyond trellises, consider installing vertical planters, hanging baskets, or even tall garden sculptures. These elements not only contribute to a sense of seclusion but also add layers of visual interest to your garden. 

Steve Schumacher, founder of Boston Landscape Co, says, "In a recent project, we installed trellises with climbing hydrangea and wisteria, which not only provided a lush, green barrier but also added seasonal blooms that increased the patio’s aesthetic value.”

By thinking vertically, you can maximize privacy without sacrificing valuable ground space.

6. Not consulting neighbors

In the excitement of creating a private haven, it’s easy to forget about your neighbors. However, not consulting them can lead to conflicts and frustrations down the road. Tall fences, large trees, or even certain plant species might affect their view, light, or space. 

Tanner Hamby, director of operations at Stand Strong Fencing, says, "The last thing anyone wants is arguments or even legal issues. Before starting any work, consider sending a letter to your neighbor or just having a chat with them. 

"Make sure the fence or wall is definitely within your property boundaries. If you’re unsure, it might be worth hiring a surveyor to check."

While waiting for neighbors to agree to your plans, or if you're waiting on items, Tanner recommends this bamboo screening fence from Amazon as a temporary privacy solution. He adds, "They’re super easy to install and you can remove them when you don’t need them anymore."

Respecting your neighbors' perspectives helps maintain a harmonious relationship and a pleasant living environment.

7. Blocking sunlight

While creating privacy is essential, it’s important not to sacrifice sunlight in the process. Tall fences, dense plantings, or poorly positioned structures can cast significant shadows, turning a sunny backyard into a dark, uninviting space. 

Rafi Friedman, president of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, says, "High privacy walls, awnings, and hedges can help to create a secluded space in your backyard, but if you build them in such a way that they block out too much sunlight, your yard will be too chilly to enjoy in the spring or fall, and you'll have a hard time growing the kinds of plants you might want."

It might also contribute to water logging in your lawn.

Consider the path of the sun and aim to balance privacy with light. Choose semi-transparent materials or plants that provide screening without entirely blocking light, ensuring your backyard remains a bright and welcoming environment.

8. Compromising safety

Privacy solutions should never come at the expense of safety. 

Tall fences or dense shrubs can create hidden spots that might feel secluded but also offer potential hiding places for intruders, or 'black spots' where children and pets are out of sight. 

Rafi says, "Especially if you have kids, it's important to design your backyard in such a way that you have easy sight lines on what they're doing at any given time. This is extra important if you have a pool, hot tub, or other water feature, but even a swing set or sandbox is much safer if it's kept in sight."

Ensure your backyard privacy measures do not compromise visibility and security. Motion-sensor lights and a well-considered backyard layout that avoids creating concealed areas can enhance both privacy and safety, giving you peace of mind.

9. Overlooking maintenance

Finally, a common backyard privacy mistake is overlooking the maintenance requirements of your chosen solutions. High-maintenance plants might need frequent pruning, watering, and care, while wooden fences require regular staining or sealing to prevent rot and decay. 

Tony O'Neill, founder of Simplify Gardening, says, "I once attempted to create a privacy screen using fast-growing vines, only to realize they required more maintenance than I anticipated. Switching to a combination of clumping bamboo and lattice panels not only provided instant privacy but also required much less upkeep. This experience taught me the importance of planning and selecting the right plants and structures."

Tony recommends purchasing a drip irrigation kit to ensure consistent watering of plants while reducing your maintenance efforts. This Abakuku Drip Irrigation System from Amazon comes with a 50-meter tube and 184 pieces to help supply all areas needed. 

Be realistic about the time and effort you can commit to upkeep. Opt for low-maintenance materials and plants that fit your lifestyle, ensuring your privacy features remain effective and attractive over time.

Meet our experts

So there you have it — nine backyard privacy mistakes to avoid, and what to do instead. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can design a space that is both beautiful and functional. With thoughtful choices and a bit of foresight, your backyard can become the secluded sanctuary you’ve always desired.

Combine deck privacy ideas and learn how to build your own pergola for even more  serene and secluded backyard gems.

If you love crafting your own designs then our easy DIY landscaping ideas will help you to upgrade your backyard in no time. 

Our easy ideas range from painting a wall to putting up a pergola - there's definitely something for every skill level and some may take a few hours, others a weekend. But the result will be the same - a new look for your backyard that will give you and any guests a fabulous space to chill out this summer. 

We've sourced 10 landscaping ideas that won't break the bank – which will you choose? 

10 easy DIY landscaping ideas to transform  your backyard

It's amazing how a little update can change your backyard. These designs, including landscaping ideas for small backyards, will improve your space no end and can add color, style, and interest to your existing scheme. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Try your hand at decking

Decking privacy can create a wonderful sanctuary in your backyard – something that can be imperative if you're overlooked. 

"By adding decking off our studio, we created a versatile terrace in rustic oak railway sleepers that will age and weather over time. We needed ample decking space for flexibility in where to place our furniture, so right at the start we marked out the space using string, to get a feel for the size of it. This is a flexible area for entertaining that is low maintenance, hard-wearing, and perfect for doubling up as a dance floor," says Jamie Watkins, co-founder, Divine Savages.

Incredibly versatile, decking works in both small and large backyards and can really enhance the space. Jamie adds, "Our top tips for easy landscaping ideas are… Go big on decking so you have plenty of room for furniture, Use leftover decking wood to build planters and bench seating, and lastly, buy modular patio furniture that can be adapted to suit any occasion."

We love the loungers that Jamie picked, for similar try Wayfair's Jivera Outdoor Acacia Chaise Lounge – a stylish design that has an ocean liner look. 

2. Paint a bold accent wall

Perhaps one of the quickest and easiest landscaping updates is to paint some part of your backyard. It could be some furniture or an exterior wall.

An intense blue such as this Smalt by Little Greene will create a real focal point. Pop up some shelving and use them to display some of your favorite plants. For ideas check out Plants.com, we love their range of succulents, check out the Reclaimed Wood Succulent Garden, they'll be happy outside in a warm climate. 

3. DIY an outdoor kitchen

Becoming increasingly popular, the outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a BBQ and some tables for food prep, or, invest in design from an outdoor kitchen specialist complete with a sink, a choice of ovens – from pizza to high-end gas ovens, and units with proper countertops. 

For starters, you can opt for freestanding units and a BBQ. We chose our three essentials below. 

4. Invest in a fire pit

One of our favorite easy DIY landscaping ideas is to add a fire pit. It's simple but it will really enhance your backyard and you'll wonder why you never invested in one before. 'I think adding a fire pit is always a great idea. Fire pits are welcoming while also providing some gravitas to a space.' says Katie McCaffrey, principal designer, McCaffrey Design Group. 

You can make your own – check out our guide here on how to make a smokeless fire pit. Likewise, you can buy one, Terrain's Weathering Steel Round Bowl Fire Pit is a great value option and will be fabulous in the evenings with friends and family. 

5. Zone a corner

Corners are great places to create a cozy seating area, you can frame it by planting grasses or using pots to landscape the space. 

We like Lively Root's Mexican Feather Grass, it's a native grass that loves warm climates and poor soil. This particular type of grass can grow up to 2 feet tall so works well as a foliage-style border. 

6. Put up a pergola

Installing a pergola is beneficial in many ways, it can keep you dry from the risk of rain, it zones you space and it has multiple uses – it can be a living space, dining place, or used for a party. 

'Incorporating a pergola into your landscaping can blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere that feels separate from the house. This immersive spot offers an intimate entertaining area nestled within nature. For this space, we chose geometric print pillows to add a pop of interest, and fortunately, the possibilities are endless with modern outdoor fabrics that often resemble indoor materials,' Heather Humphrey, principal of Alder and Tweed, says.

6. Pop up some wood paneling

Wood paneling has become a great interior design addition in recent years and it's easy to see why. Easy to install and great value, it can be used outside too. 

Naturewall has a great range and as it's waterproof it can be used outside too! You can choose from different finishes and the warming wood style gives a Scandi-style look. 

8. Craft some planters

More of us are starting to use our backyards for more than just entertaining – and growing flowers and veggies is one of them. 

To do this the best option is to make up some raised beds, they can be crafted using railway sleepers, and old planks, or buy them ready-made. They are the ultimate landscaping ideas that are easy to implement and have a big impact when everything is fully blooming. 

We particularly love Amazon's 9-in-1 Galvanised Steel Raised Garden Bed, it comes in six colors – ideal if you want a bright look. 

9. Make some pallet furniture

A perennial favorite, pallet furniture shows no signs of abating. It's a great value option and together with the right accessories, can look fabulous. 

Pallets are relatively easy to get and all you need is some basic DIY equipment and instructions on how to make pallet furniture. 

You can paint your pallet furniture too, or give an existing piece a refresh. Below we've found some great 'get the look' buys to recreate this relaxing outdoor space. 

10. Train a climbing plant up a trellis

Gardening is a key aspect of landscaping your garden and adding new plants to the mix adds color and interest to your backyard scheme. 

One of the best ways is to add a trellis and choose some fabulous climbing plants to train up it. Trellis's can also provide privacy and shade if your backyard is south-facing.

Terrain's Iron Arch Wall Trellis is a great place to start and can be mounted on an outdoor wall. 

Our easy DIY landscaping ideas will give your backdoor space a new lease of life. Even spending a few hours one weekend will transform your existing look, be it a couple of raised beds, a fire pit, or a touch of paneling. For an even more modern look, check out some landscaping trends like sustainable gardening.

As the months are warming up, it's time for new landscaping ideas for small backyards. Having a compact one doesn't mean you have to compromise on style.

It just means you need to be clever with how you landscape the small space you're working with outdoors. From new pots to stylish plant storage, and paneling to pergolas, our pros have you covered. 

We know that landscaping ideas can be challenging when space is tight, so our 10 expert-led ideas will inspire you to have a go, and you'll fall back in love with your small backyard in no time. 

Impactful landscaping ideas for small backyards 

Whatever your budget, our landscaping ideas for small backyards will help you add some style and practicality to your outdoor space. 

It can be overwhelming to know where to start but your work on this project doesn't have to be extensive, expensive or complicated. Even little touches such as a lick of paint or a new cozy nook can be all you need to transform this key outdoor area.

Prices were correct at the time of publication.

1. Add a single color

Got some spare exterior paint from a previous update? You don't need to paint a whole wall, you can pick and choose specific areas to update which can make for a striking focal point. 

Then, you can paint a couple of planters too for cohesion (the beautiful blue pictured above is Little Greene's Tivoli) – they'll blend in well which will give a contemporary look to your small backyard. Pop in some box hedge or herbs for texture too. 

We like Wayfair's Gethsemane Pot Planter that's available in white, charcoal and natural concrete as it's a great size and could be painted to match a scheme like our example image above.

2. Install wood paneling

The trend in kitchens is to create a banqueting area — this can also be done outside and we love this wood paneling space in this small backyard. 

"Outdoor dining areas often present two challenges: how do you make them feel intimate when you’re seated under the big blue sky, and how do you provide privacy from neighbors? Here, we created a built-in banquette out of ipe wood to solve both issues," say Shea Soucie and Martin Horner, co-founders and principals of Soucie Horner, Ltd.

Ipe wood is a fabulous option for outdoor paneling as it's highly weather-resistant. Shea and Martin add, "It will patina beautifully over time to match the tones of the blue stone flooring. As a bonus, it provides a bit of natural drama that makes eating outdoors at home feel like you’re dining on the terrace of your favorite alpine restaurant."

For similar gray patio pavers as pictured above, we recommend Amazon's Montauk Black 16" x 16" Gauged Slate Floor and Wall Tiles. The dark shade will ground your small backyard and give it depth, and if you've painted any area nearby, really make the colors pop.

3. Invest in wall-mounted planters

With a small backyard it pays to keep your color palette warm yet light on both your walls and floors. This will give you a good neutral blank canvas to play with plain shades and subtle pattern.

"Keeping to a neutral palette will allow you to build upon and layer with furniture, accessories and landscaping — inject some pattern and character into your outdoor scheme with en-caustic cement or artisan terrazzo tiles," advises Damla Turgut, founder and creative director of Otto Tiles & Design US.

A great quick fix is to use wall planters where possible and occasional planters on a coffee table — rather than using up valuable floor space and making it feel tighter than it is.

4. Embrace bistro seating and vertical planting

When all you may have is a single wall or a corner, it pays to be clever with your seating — we love bistro sets (such as the check  Wayfair's Hopwood 2-Person Set, which is vintage style and full of charm) combined with clever plant placement.

"This bistro garden (pictured above) is all about joining architectural and natural elements. Boxwood balls, rectilinear hedges, and rows of monkey grass under the wild magnolia trees keep the eye interested with their varying shapes but are united by their sharply delineated lines," says Courtnay Tartt Elias, principal and creative director at Creative Tone Design. 

"Vintage furniture with gentle curves underscores that the rectilinear two-toned gravel path perfectly illustrates the garden's inspiration: architecturally inspired nature," she adds.

Add to this some vertical planting and you can transform your space into a really beautiful green spot, Walmart's Varden Vertical Garden 36 Self Watering, 6 Row, 36 Plant Wall Mountable Garden Planter is a great buy. 

5. Add a water feature

Water features are known for their calming properties and can be simple to add if you want to start small and DIY one yourself, or hire someone to do it for you. As far as water feature options go, the world is really oyster. 

Small is good though, and a shallow design like the one we've pictured above can be set into your paving with little disruption to your backyard. 

We like Target's Stone 3-Tier Pedestal Outdoor Floor Fountain as it takes up little space but you still get to enjoy the relaxing sounds. 

This is also a brilliant sustainable landscaping trend option.

6. Create an outdoor reading nook

One of our favorite landscaping ideas for small backyards is to create a cozy nook – we talk about these often with interiors, but there's no reason why you can't do the same outside. 

A couple of comfy chairs and a fire pit is all you need. Another great idea is to invest in a small greenhouse, they're ideal for small spaces as you can grow your own flowers and veggies too and they can act as a screen. 

To recreate this delightful space pictured above, shop our matching picks, below. 

7. Make a display with planters

Grouping a range of pots and planters together in a small backyard is a sure fire way of adding volume, interest and texture to your scheme. Sue Jones, co-founder and creative director at OKA explains: 

"It’s easier than you think to create a charming space in a small garden or on a terrace – it’s all about maximizing what you’ve got and being smart about the accessories and plants you add to the space."

Sometimes what you choose can be striking enough without needing to fill them, Sue adds, "If you don’t have grass or borders to create a visually interesting display with flowers, this is where planters and pots really come into their own. 

"I'd suggest choosing a selection with different heights, textures and colors which will help add character and depth to the space, but also once planted with varied flowers and even trees, you’ll create a natural looking canopy of foliage."

8. Use shelving for a plant display

For a minimalist backyard that's tiny, think outside of the box — especially if you love gardening. 

"Modular shelving allows you to furnish your outdoor space with beautiful and timeless functional furniture that can be added to over time," explains Bo Hellberg, CMO at String Furniture.  

"When choosing a material that suits the outdoors, galvanized metal is a wonderful option that promises to withstand even the harshest of weather and bring a touch of Scandinavian style with it. Even the smallest of spaces need plenty of storage and with unique shelving, you will have a natural place to keep all your garden tools pots and other rough objects all year round."

9. Sit under the shade of a pergola

Pergolas give you an outdoor living experience but with the reassurance that you can stay dry and sunburn-free whilst enjoying being in nature. 

There are various types to look out for, some are like awnings and are fixed to the side of the house, others are freestanding. You can choose whether the roof retracts or not and what type of material it's made from.

They're great for zoning areas for different functions, a vital design trick for small spaces, and creating an outdoor living space for entertaining, plus it's a fabulous option for landscaping your small backyard. 

Have a look at our top three pergola picks below, there's something for everyone.

10. Embrace raised beds

Raised garden beds are the savior of small backyards because they create interest, they're practical and decorative. 

You can use them to landscape your garden to suit the space, and to create zones – an outdoor living area and a growing space. Use them for flowers, plants and veggies, they're also easy to maintain and of course, work fantastically in small backyards. 

There are some wonderful landscaping ideas for small backyards, some require more attention and time than others, but most can be done over a long weekend. 

The improvements will instantly make you fall in love with your space as it will give you an outdoor living area that's practical, stylish and functional.

Finding out the key landscaping trend for the year is a great way to make sure your backyard looks chic and contemporary.

I've asked landscaping pros and gardening experts about the trend they've seen making their way into clients' outdoor spaces this year and 2024 is all about sustainability, they say. It's music to my ears as it's been a huge part of interiors trends too, which I research and write about daily for Real Homes.

If you're looking for landscaping ideas and want to try something new, sustainable landscaping is not only a pretty choice but is also brilliant for the planet. Our expert-led guide reveals how to do it in your back (or front) yard.

Try the sustainable landscaping trend this year

Switching up your backyard ideas will help make your space feel fresh and fun, and also allow it to be more inviting during the warmer months.

I've delved into how to bring the sustainable landscaping trend into your outdoor space, no matter how compact it might be, as well as curating a sustainable landscaping starter kit to help you start using it straight away.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

What is the sustainable landscaping trend?

For those looking for budget backyard ideas, going down the sustainable, natural route is both terrific for the planet and trendy.

“The biggest trend I’ve seen is the integration of eco-friendly and sustainable landscape practices,” explains Steve Sylva, landscaping expert and founder of Steve’s Services.

“Clients are increasingly requesting native plants, which require less water and maintenance, creating a harmonious transition between property boundaries and the local ecosystem,” he says. 

For instance, Steve’s company has successfully incorporated regional flora, which enhances both aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability, he explains.

As well as bringing in native plants, you can also look for ideas that won't require you to seek out extra lawn care advice nor rev up the best small lawnmower you have.

“People are beginning to grasp the amount of water and maintenance it takes to keep a lawn looking green and happy all the time, so they are looking for more eco-friendly alternatives,” says Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love. “Things like meadow or clover lawns are two popular alternative choices currently.”

You can also sprinkle wildflower seeds (the Sweet Yards Wildflower Mix from Amazon will help attract hummingbirds to your backyard and have over 7,000 live seeds) onto these in order to attract local wildlife and bring color into your backyard.

If you’re looking for a decor piece to help enhance this, choosing rain chain ideas and bird baths (the Specstar Bird Bath from Walmart is a best seller, made from non-toxic materials, and is lightweight) can help you preserve water and help the local wildlife thrive.

Shop our sustainable landscaping starter kit

Taking this eco-friendly approach will not only save you time and money when landscaping but will also make your backyard a better place for the environment.

I don’t see this sustainable landscaping trend going anywhere, and it’s one that I’m going to start applying to my own yard immediately.

You might want to consider more low-maintenance landscaping ideas if you want your space to look beautiful without any hassle.

Channel those vacay vibes into your home with some tropical landscaping ideas. If your backyard needs a little love, transform it into a lush oasis with our design inspiration.

By just incorporating a few key elements like vibrant lush and leafy plants, bright colors, and natural materials like wood, rattan, and bamboo, you'll create your own jungle in no time.

Discover the best landscaping ideas for a tropical space in our expert-led guide.

Tropical landscaping ideas for your private oasis

If you've been dreaming of a tropical-style garden but have no idea where to start then you've come to the right place. Our design tips, including landscaping privacy ideas, will help you to create a similar feel in your space without breaking the bank, or from using too much of your time. 

Prices were correct at the time this article was published.

1. Choose your color palette

When it comes to adding tropical flowers to your yard, think about the colors you'd like to incorporate. The bird of paradise (also known as strelitzia) is a beautiful tropical plant with eye-popping flowers in electric blue and flame orange. These tropical plants usually max out around six feet tall, whilst their large leaves add real jungle vibes. You can pick up bird of paradise plants from Walmart to add pops of color.

Traditionally, a tropical garden is full of a wide range of greens – from bright green to dark and dramatic, and then there are the colors. Think bright, almost neon pinks, vibrant yellow, shades of red, and hints of lime. 

If you would love to add pink and green to your tropical plant collection, snap up an elegant Stromanthe Triostar plant from The Sill. It has striking leaves that are dark magenta on the underside.

If bright colors aren't your bag but you still fancy the tropical look then embrace earthy tones of ochre, stone, and coral. 

2. Add tropical greenery

The part that will give your backyard the most tropical look is what you choose to plant. These can be trees or plants depending on your space. 

"Tropical landscaping transforms a backyard into a lush, exotic paradise," says Samual Davis, CEO, of London Gardeners. "To achieve this, focus on bold, large-leafed plants such as banana trees, birds of paradise, and elephant ears. Incorporating palm trees and cycads can add height and a classic tropical vibe. Use vibrant flowers like hibiscus, bougainvillea, and bromeliads to add pops of color."

We've sourced the top three tropical plants to start your tropical landscaping ideas, use various heights and textures for that lush feel. 

3. Consider resort style

One of our favorite tropical landscaping ideas is to create the feel you want with more than just accessories and furniture, it's about pulling together an all-encompassing look and a resort-like feel is easily achievable if you have either an in-ground or above-ground pool. 

"There’s nothing better than feeling like you’re on holiday in your own garden, and there are a few things that you can add to your outdoor space to really create the 'resort look'. A parasol above a dining table or sun lounger is not only practical but also helps to bring a coastal aesthetic – I’d suggest choosing one in an oatmeal color which will help to keep a space feeling open and bright, or give the illusion of a brighter space if you’re working with a smaller, darker area," suggests Sue Jones, co-founder and creative director at OKA.

Make sure your planter beds are full of lush greenery and consider using shiplap on your exterior walls for an authentic feel with a couple of lantern wall lights (Terrain's Copper Lantern Hanger is ideal for creating ambiance) so you can sit out in the evening. 

4. Create a water feature

Aside from the planting aspect, the next big landscaping element is to create a water feature. 

"I love that the garden water feature gives this amazing transportive experience before entering the home. It is an anchor to the whole home and reinforces the importance of biophilic living," says Brittany Farinas, CEO and creative director of House of One. 

If you don't have room for a pond, then consider a water feature in a couple of corners of your backyard. We like Wayfair's Lewellyn Weather Resistant Pool Fountain – it does what is says and creates the gentle noise of water that will relax you in no time. 

"Water features, such as small ponds or fountains, enhance the tropical atmosphere. Incorporate natural materials like bamboo or teak for furniture and decorative elements to complement the lush greenery," says Samual Davis.

These can work beautifully when considering landscaping ideas for small backyards.

5. Use accent colors outside

If you love gardening and want to incorporate some of the key colors for a tropical look then consider pink and yellow flowers, this Bromeliad Antonio from Plants.com can be kept in a pot or planted in bed, it definitely has rainforest vibes! 

Keep your furniture neutral, that way it will work with the zingy colored accessories you might pick – we love this Floral Colorful Design Outdoor Rug by Wayfair. Its bright colors will lift a backyard instantly. And Anthropologie's Priyanka Cushion will certainly add a tropical element with its fabulous illustrative design. 

6. Opt for natural materials

While you may love the look of tropical colors, you may be nervous about going over the top. Adding some neutral colors will help balance the overall look.

It's all about the textures you pick – and the plants as we've mentioned. But also think about the tropical climate and its surroundings. 

A muted palette of dusty shades like taupe, sand, and beige will work well, add in textures like rough-cut stone, concrete, and earthenware and your look will start to take shape.

Our tropical landscaping ideas will certainly add a vibrant and fun element to your backyard space. It can be as sophisticated as you like if you want to really embrace all the wonderful textures and varieties of plants. Or it can be joyful with bold prints and bright colors, like with Morrocan-inspired garden ideas.

With the right deck privacy ideas, you can turn your deck into a beautifully secluded spot for soaking up the sun. If your deck currently feels a little exposed to the elements (and the neighbors), these ideas will help you create a cozy nook that's just for you and your guests.

To discover ways to create a quiet deck, we've spoken to outdoor and garden experts for their tips on deck privacy, and we asked them specifically to focus on DIY and budget ideas.

They've provided us with plenty of backyard garden ideas to get your space feeling nice and private.

10 deck privacy ideas to try 

We've spoken to three experts to gather 10 deck privacy ideas that will work on a budget. Where relevant, we've also suggested products that will help you achieve deck privacy.

Prices correct at the time of writing.

1. Divide with planting

For those on a budget, planting, like ornamental grasses, may be the easiest way to achieve privacy on your deck. "Planting certain things like taller grasses, shrubs, and hedges, or small trees can help you separate property lines and add privacy in different areas of your outdoor space," says Molly Werner, director of marketing for the fencing, decking, and railing categories of Barrette Outdoor Living.

Aaron Brundage, director of operations at System Pavers, agrees. “Plants and greenery can be your privacy powerhouse! Opt for tall foliage such as bamboo and decorative grasses to block sight lines.” This bamboo palm or ornamental grass, both from Walmart, should be a good starting point.

2. Think evergreens

Tilly's director of design, Cate Singleton, agrees that tall evergreen shrubs can do wonders for blocking out neighboring views and providing privacy for an outdoor space. "[Shrubs] can be placed along the perimeter of the yard, the perimeter of the outdoor living space, or even in containers with casters that can be moved as needed to achieve the desired screening," she explains.

As well as planting shrubs or grasses, the right evergreen plants can also provide visual privacy and work as "noise buffers along busy streets or common areas", says Cate. "Many evergreens, such as Little Gem Magnolias, will also provide seasonal blooms to double as a focal feature in the garden," she adds. Try this Little Gem Magnolia tree from Amazon to get you started or see our fast-growing evergreens for privacy ideas.

Choosing shrubs that are seasonal is a big patio privacy mistake, so evergreens are the best option you can choose.

3. Use furniture wisely

The way your furniture is arranged can make a difference in how private your deck feels. "Arranging your outdoor furniture in a way that creates a more intimate space can help with creating privacy," explains Cate. To create a cozy feel to your deck, try moving furniture away from walkways and focusing it towards a coffee table or a view.

4. Think vertical

Cate suggests that thinking vertically when it comes to furniture might be useful for deck privacy. "Incorporating taller pieces, such as shelving units, vertical garden panels, and planters with taller plants can also help with creating a more private feeling on a deck," she says. You don't have to stick to straight vertical lines either, with options such as this fun Nierenberg metal vertical garden from Wayfair, which has a folding design.

5. Get a pergola

"Pergolas are always a great addition to an outdoor space," says Molly, who adds that pergolas can often be adapted. "You can make modifications to most pergolas to increase privacy, such as adding curtains or panels."

Molly recommends this pergola from Barrette Outdoor Living, sold via Wayfair (above) which also comes with the option to add one or two side-wall panels (sold separately at Wayfair). These pergola ideas can help you place your pergola.

6. Create a barrier

Aside from a pergola, building a barrier is another way to add privacy to your deck. "Fencing and retaining walls are more traditional ways to add privacy to your space," says Aaron. "This can be as easy as adding a trellis of lattice or building a small border or picket fence." See our landscaping privacy ideas for more options.

7. Get shady

Some of the best ways to add privacy to your deck will also have the benefit of adding shade. "A large umbrella, pergola, or retractable awning can add quite a bit of privacy to an outdoor space," says Cate. Something like this pop-up canopy from Wayfair can also help here.

8. Use accessories

Other accessories can help add a cozy feel to your deck. Cate loves "drop down screens, curtains, and lattice panels for adding that extra bit of privacy to an outdoor space". These options have other benefits, too: "They can also help with sun exposure and even deter outdoor pests from sharing the space," says Cate.

9. Add personal touches

"Another great way to create a more private feel for your space is by adding your own touches of décor," says Aaron. "Outdoor art, sculptures and wind chimes can turn a boring deck into a haven that feels all yours and is brimming with personal style." Something like this Capiz wind chime, from Wayfair, comes in a variety of colors.

10. Get a water feature

Water features can not only add a sense of calm to a space but also block out background noises such as traffic and noisy neighbors. “Water features add visual appeal that will give your yard a tranquil spa-like feel,” says Aaron, who notes that they are ideal if your space feels a bit chaotic.

See our garden water feature ideas piece if you’re not sure where to start or take a look at our porch privacy ideas for inspiration on your next project.

For more on creating private outdoor spaces, see our how to enclose your apartment's balcony and front yard privacy ideas pieces.

You may want to find front yard privacy ideas if you want to make this space feel more secluded and stylish.

We have quizzed design and landscaping pros to find out their top ways to create spaces that look beautiful and feel relaxing. Tall shrubs, layered planting, and trellis panels are some of the top things they reach for when achieving this for their clients.

Even if you have backyard privacy ideas covered, finding specific tips for the entrance to your home will help you tailor this space in a way that's both pretty and practical.

Brilliant front yard privacy ideas

From ways to create privacy without blocking light to harnessing natural solutions, there are so many ways to keep the front of your home hidden.

Where our experts have suggested specific structures and plants, we have shopped these in case you want to follow their advice.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article. 

1. Outdoor curtains

Make your front yard a breezy and breathtaking place to relax by hanging up billowing curtains and enjoy porch privacy.

“Install outdoor curtains or drapes around your front porch or patio area to create an intimate and secluded space,” suggests Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Choose weather-resistant fabrics and colors that complement your exterior decor,” she says.

I like the Bonzer Outdoor Curtains from Amazon, as they’re waterproof, windproof, and are made in an OEKO‑TEX factory which means they’re free of harmful chemicals.

2. Trellis with climbing vines

Turn the front of your home into a Bridgerton design fantasy by adding gorgeous vines and flowers.

“Install trellises along your front yard boundaries and train climbing vines such as jasmine, wisteria, or clematis to grow along them,” suggests Nina.

“As these vines mature, they will create a lush, living wall that offers privacy while also adding fragrance and visual interest to your outdoor space,” she says.

For example, the Panacea Metal Climbing Trellis from Walmart comes with brackets for extra wall support and is made from steel with a powder-coated finish.

3. Layered planting

When gardening in your front yard, why go for one plant when you can go for a few?

“By combining plants of different heights, such as tall ornamental grasses, mid-height shrubs, and low-growing perennials, you can create a multi-level privacy screen in your front yard,” explains Steve Sylva, landscaping expert and founder of Steve’s Services.

He continues, “For instance, in a project in Reading, MA, we used tall Miscanthus grasses, followed by hydrangeas and lavender.”

By taking this approach, Steve was able to add serious depth to the landscape, while ensuring privacy from different vantage points.

4. Strategically placed trees

This is a front yard privacy idea for those who own their home and know they’ll be in it for a while.

Steve explains, “Varieties like Leyland Cypress or Eastern Redcedar create year-round privacy. For example, we recently planted a series of Leyland Cypress around a client's property in Malden, MA.”

He adds, “These trees quickly established a dense, tall barrier that provided immediate privacy and a lush, green backdrop.”

Get started on this by growing your own tree at home. The Flowerland Leyland Cypress from Walmart is a fantastic option as it grows 3-5 feet per year and has feathery foliage.

5. Stone walls

Add a touch of contemporary elegance by bringing in stone walls that will provide an architectural focal point.

“In one recent project, we built a low stone wall around the front yard and planted drought-resistant plants along its base,” explains Joe Gerrior, landscaping expert and owner of Gerrior Masonry & Landscape Construction Corp.

“This not only created a private and serene environment but also added a touch of elegance and durability,” he says.

Combining natural stone and greenery is also a stylish way to make sure your front yard privacy fits in seamlessly with the rest of your space.

6. Water features

Even houses on busy streets can be turned into a serene paradise with the help of peaceful water features, which will contribute to front yard privacy in more ways than one.

Nina says, “Integrate water features like fountains, ponds, or cascading waterfalls into your front yard design.”

“The soothing sound of running water not only adds tranquility but also helps mask street noise and create a private ambiance,” she adds.

Even if you’re looking for small backyard ideas, you can still bring these. I like the eye-catching Alpine Corporation Rock Waterfall from Amazon which has LED lights and is made from durable materials like resin and fiberglass. 

7. Stylish fencing

You might already have thought of this backyard privacy idea, but fencing ideas will come in useful if you have a home with surrounding neighbors.

“Consider installing a stylish privacy fence around the front yard. Make sure to go for materials like wood, vinyl, or metal that complement the architectural style of your home,” Nina says.

She also suggests adding lattice panels (the Gracie Oaks Nderim Lattice Panels from Wayfair comes fully assembled and has a three year warranty) or decorative elements to customize the look.

8. Living wall

Go all-out with greenery by creating living screens that you can move around your yard easily depending on where you need privacy.

“Create movable or permanent living screens using tall grasses or flowering plants. Arrange these screens strategically to block views from certain angles while maintaining an open and airy feel in your front yard,” Nina says.

To get started with this idea, pick a screen with cut-outs you can fill and then weave plants through these. 

You could either DIY this with palettes or with a hard-wearing pre-made screen, such as the stunning Barrette Outdoor Living Store Sanibel Decorative Screen from Amazon made from scratch-resistant polypropylene.

9. Hedge walls

One classic and elegant way to create privacy in your front yard is by planting hedge walls. 

“Choose dense, tall plants like boxwood or arborvitae and line them along the perimeter of your yard,” Nina suggests.

She adds, “These green barriers will not only provide privacy but will enhance the natural beauty in your landscape.”

10. Movable planters

For those seeking out flexible and portable front yard privacy options, it’s worth considering large and lovely container planters. 

“Tall plants like Bamboo or large ornamental grasses can be grown in containers to create movable privacy screens,” explains Marco Picano, landscaping expert and co-owner of Picano Landscaping.

He says this method is particularly useful for creating temporary privacy during gatherings or events, as they can be quickly rearranged as needed.

I really love the look of the Outsunny Tall Outdoor Planters from Target, as they’re sleek, stackable, and self-draining. 

11. Tall shrubs

Brighten up your front yard privacy ideas by bringing in sweet shrubs with plenty of texture and character.

“One of the most natural ways to achieve privacy in the front yard is by planting shrubs like American Holly, as these will create a dense visual barrier and provide year-round coverage,” says Marco.

For a layered look, he advises underplanting with medium-sized shrubs such as azaleas.

12. Creative sculptures

Try bringing a touch of sophistication with a gorgeous sculpture that can be artfully placed to add front yard privacy. 

“Incorporate artistic elements like sculptures to define spaces and create visual interest while maintaining a secluded space,” Nina explains.

I have my eye on the dazzling Alpine Corporation Peacock Statue from Walmart, which has an intricate design and ‘feathers’ that will block any gaps.

If you already have a sculpture you want to take center stage again, you might want to learn how to restore garden statues.

With these front yard privacy ideas, you can transform your outdoor space into a secluded sanctuary that reflects your style and enhances your home's curb appeal. 

“Whether you prefer lush greenery, architectural features, or decorative screens, there are so many ways to achieve privacy without compromising on beauty,” Nina finishes by saying.

Many of these are also budget backyard ideas, so you can create them without having to spend a lot of cash.

Learning how to create backyard privacy without blocking light will come in useful if you want to catch rays in your outdoor space without feeling like your life is on display for neighbours.

Our designers have created outdoor spaces and in this guide, share seven ways to usher in privacy without making your backyard gloomy, including tips on natural and decorative methods. Think tall trees, lush screens, and sheer curtains.

If you're looking for backyard privacy ideas but don't want to say goodbye to glowing sunshine, these smart ideas are worth keeping in mind.

Pros reveal best ways to create backyard privacy without blocking light

Avoid backyard privacy mistakes with our designer-led guide featuring a host of different techniques that will still allow your place to become a sun-kissed oasis.

Some of their solutions are shoppable buys, which we matched with high-quality picks from trusted retailers throughout to help you start styling your yard.

All prices were correct at the time of publishing.

1. Outdoor curtains

When looking for backyard ideas, choosing elegant options like outdoor curtains can turn even the smallest of spaces into a sophisticated setting.

“Install sheer outdoor curtains on pergolas, pavilions, or overhangs to create a soft and elegant privacy solution,” suggests Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

“Sheer fabrics like voile or linen (the Jinchan Linen Curtains from Amazon are made from recycled materials and are waterproof) gently diffuse sunlight while offering privacy from neighboring properties,” she adds.

Be sure to choose light-colored curtains to maintain an airy and inviting ambiance.

2. Louvered panels

If you want to control the sun’s rays when creating backyard privacy without blocking light, choose a striking addition like louvered panels.

“Opt for ones made from materials like aluminum or composite wood that are durable and weather-resistant,” Nina explains. “From here, you can customize the angle of the louvers to optimize light and privacy throughout the day.”

Go for a versatile style to blend in with your patio decor or a daring shade to create a standout feature. 

For example, the Oriental Furniture Louvered Divider from Walmart is made with rich red New Zealand Pine and can be folded both ways.

3. Ornamental grasses

Head down the natural route when creating backyard privacy without blocking light by planting ornamental grasses.

“Use raised planters filled with tall ornamental grasses like miscanthus or feather reed grass. The grasses create a soft, semi-transparent barrier that offers privacy without obstructing light,” says Nisha Maxwell, garden designer and founder of Mantis Planting.

Look for rectangular planters you can move around when required, such as the Costway Wooden Raised Garden Bed from Target which has an efficient water drainage system design and handily comes with a garden bed liner.

4. Living wall

Bring together natural and decorative elements beautifully by creating a gorgeous, vibrant living privacy wall.

“Construct living privacy walls using innovative materials like outdoor fabric panels or metal mesh filled with greenery,” Nina suggests. “These dynamic structures provide privacy, while allowing light to filter through, creating a modern and visually interesting focal point in your backyard.”

You can also use a trellis to create a similar effect. I really love the Amagabeli 2 Pack Black Garden Trellis from Walmart which is giving me all the Bridgerton design vibes, is made from a rust-resistant material, and is easy to assemble.

5. Decorative fencing

If you're in need of something more permanent, go for outdoor fencing ideas which will allow plenty of privacy and allow in lots of light.

Nina explains, “Choose decorative fencing designs like picket or lattice panels, as these will allow airflow and sunlight to pass through while creating a sense of seclusion.”

You can also paint or stain the fencing in light colors (the Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain in Antique White from Amazon dries in just one hour and will highlight the natural wood grain) to enhance brightness and openness in your outdoor space.

6. Tall, narrow trees

This solution might be a long-term game, but if you’ve settled into your forever home, this will be worth the wait.

“Choose trees with a slim profile, such as cypress or columnar juniper,” Nisha says. “These trees provide vertical privacy without casting wide shadows that block sunlight."

Grow your own with a starter kit such as the Flowerwood Leyland Cypress from Walmart, which grows three to five feet per year and only needs watering a couple of times a week.

7. Lattice panels

Go for a dreamy, romantic look in your backyard with a lovely lattice paired with pretty plants. One of the biggest outdoor decor trends at the moment is cottagecore design, and this is an easy way to bring this in (or out!).

Nisha suggests, “Install lattice panels or trellises and train climbing plants like clematis or ivy to grow on them.”

She says this will create a screen with plenty of privacy and will allow you to control how much light filters through the gaps, too.

I like lattice, but if you want something a touch more whimsical, the Pergola Garden Plant Trellis from Walmart has a cute moon design, a smooth wooden surface, and can simply be slotted into the ground.

With decorative elements and thoughtful design solutions, creating backyard privacy without blocking light could not be easier.

“Bringing in creative ideas can enhance your outdoor living experience with the perfect blend of fabulous and function,” Nina finishes by saying.

If you live in an apartment and can’t add fencing or trees, balcony privacy ideas will also help you shut the world out in style.

Finding clever backyard ideas will help you achieve the outdoor space you've always wanted — stunning, versatile, and easy to maintain. 

Whether your focus is gorgeous flowers and trees, or if you want a more minimalist backyard that caters to your entertaining needs, putting in the time and effort to properly plan your outdoor space always pays off. We've asked designers for tips that cover all these.

No matter if you're searching for large or small backyard ideas, there are so many great ways to take outdoor areas of all shapes and sizes to the next level. 

Beautiful backyard ideas

With fire pits, vegetable gardens, and DIY additions all within the realm of possibilities, there are many budget-friendly backyard ideas to try.

Our experts have recommended useful buys throughout, which we have shopped to help you get the look.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Go for bold colors

Bold colors and maximalism work so well to exaggerate space both indoors and out. Use this technique to create a cool backdrop in a small or even balcony garden space to complement the planting you do have. 

We love how this wall has a bold splash of color, a chic place to sit down, and plants around it. These all contribute to this cute little space having style and function. For extra color, add these vibrant outdoor string lights from Enbrighten.

2. Grow a vegetable garden

Want to make your dinners al fresco taste even better? Consider making your own produce with a vegetable garden.

Once you've figured out where you want to establish your garden, plant your favorite produce. Herbs, tomatoes, zucchini... the sky's the limit. If you want to strike a balance between form and function, add a trellis to your kitchen garden. 

Building a trellis is an important part of growing your greens and it will make a big difference to your vegetable yield, giving them space and support to grow vertically.

3. Build raised beds

If you want to keep your backyard gardening low maintenance with raised beds. You build these yourself with wooden planks and can fill them with drought-tolerant plants and herbs 

Learning how to make raised beds is easy and is suitable even for beginner gardeners. Martha Stewart is a big fan of raised planters and says she won't grow her veg any other way.

4. Use a ladder to display plants

Chances are, you want to flex your green thumb, but don't have enough room for a sprawling garden. 

If this is the case, you can simply place a few potted plants on a leaning ladder. The result? An area that oozes forest vibes.

“This is a great way to add texture and greenery without taking up valuable floor space,” says Michael Plater, interior designer and founder of Gantri. 

These can also work as subtle backyard privacy ideas when decorated with curtains or trellis plants.

5. Create a mural

Art is a staple of every gorgeous home, so why would your backyard be any different? 

Ashley Wilson of At Home With Ashley primed her wall with a fresh coat of white paint, and then dressed it up with streaks in every color of the rainbow. 

You could paint this yourself or enlist the whole family to create a striking feature you can all be proud of this weekend.

6. Build a fire pit

Whether you have a hankering for s'mores or are on the hunt for a way to stay warm during those cool summer nights, a fire pit is the backyard gift that keeps on giving. 

In the above picture, Robert and Lauren of Blesser Home placed layers of stone in a circular configuration, removed the grass in the center, and added some chairs so guests can enjoy that gorgeous glow. 

Don't feel like building one? You can always buy one of the best fire pits, such as the Sol Outdoor Fire Pit from Wayfair with over 900 five-star reviews.

If you want lighting but are worried about bringing fire pits into your yard, the best outdoor lanterns may come in useful, too.

7. Decorate with tiles

From creating a DIY art project with the kiddos, to curling up with a good book, it's safe to say that making the most of patio ideas is a must in any backyard. 

If you want to give yours a stylish edge this summer, consider adding some pretty tiles, as demonstrated by Jenna Sue Design. 

While traditional tiles are ideal, peel-and-stick floor decals will deliver, too. The Seven Seas Marble Mosaic Tiles from Wayfair are a pretty choice.

8. Hang a hammock chair

We can't think of any reason not to add a laidback hammock chair to your backyard to bring all the boho vibes to your space. 

Not only can it offer a relaxing place to curl up with a book, but it's also pretty easy to install.

If you want to achieve a similar look to the picture above, the Sand and Stable Hammock from Wayfair is a close match. Egg chairs are fun too.

If you’re short on space, you can hang a rain chain to add function and beauty, and even make your own unique rain chain.

9. Max out seating

Since the great outdoors is a go-to destination for socially distanced hangouts, it’s important to create ample backyard seating for everyone. 

Sara Toufali of Black & Blooms doubled down on seating with a couch, two chairs, and some floor pillows. 

When it comes to buying outdoor furniture, it’s important to find items that can hold up against the elements. 

“Homeowners can sometimes be afraid of outdoor furniture as they are concerned it will clog up the small space,” says Mike Falahee, design expert and president at Marygrove. “However, I think adding bespoke pieces is excellent in bringing out the vision for your space.”

He suggests consulting local fabricators and getting the right furniture that fits your vision and budget. 

10. Bring in large lighting

Once summer rolls around, you’ll be eager to spend all of your time outside — yes, even once the sun sets. This is why it's a great idea to bring in lighting to your backyard and consider patio lighting ideas.

Christina and Robert of New Darlings gave their outdoor space a homey edge with a rattan pendant light and cute, black sconce. 

11. Drape around string lights

Well-planned outdoor lighting ideas make a big difference to any backyard, large or small. 

If you want to give your backyard a serene, otherworldly glow, string lights are the way to go. We recommend going for festoon lights such as the Brightech Waterproof Lights from Amazon.

Hang these above your planters like above or even place them around your outdoor dining area for a restaurant-style finish. 

12. Add a playground

Bringing a play area into your backyard will not only create a space for your kids to play, but can also add a stylish interest point.

We love this treehouse which looks so Scandi, but you could also add beautiful swings and perhaps even a slide, if you have the space. The kids (and adults alike) will love backyard games, too.

13. Bring spa vibes with an outdoor shower

Believe it or not, an outdoor shower isn't only for tropical hotels; you can easily incorporate one in your space, too. 

"This project was especially close to our hearts as it’s our family home," explains Australian design duo Kyal and Kara Demmrich. 

"A well-connected home that has plenty of room to entertain, cook, and enjoy family time. We’ve coined our style for [the] Blue Lagoon Build as ‘Australian coastal meets Mediterranean villa.'"

This backyard idea might require some time and elbow grease, but the serene results make it so worth it. 

14. Pick a pretty pool

Make a splash in your backyard — literally — with an outdoor swimming pool. While above-ground pools often come with an unstylish reputation, Rachel of Serene & Co.’s setup puts any skepticism to rest. 

The bamboo-inspired exterior is equal parts subtle and striking. Plus, the swan float and fringed umbrella make this backyard pool party-ready.

If you'd rather have a less permanent fixture, you could always grab a cute inflatable pool, such as The Looped Rattan Inflatable Pool from Minnidip and learn how to keep the pool clean and enjoyable all summer.

15. Create an outdoor cinema

Looking for a backyard idea the entire family can enjoy? Create an outdoor movie theater. 

All you need is a white sheet, some wooden dowels, and a pretty ribbon. Oh, and one of the best outdoor projectors, of course, such as the Happrun Projector from Amazon. Lights, camera, action!

16. Bring in a chalkboard

Think of a chalk wall as sidewalk art 2.0. Framing a chalkboard, as seen in this space by Hawkins Interiors, will give your kids full permission to get creative while keeping in theme with your outdoor decor. 

Bonus points: Their masterpieces can serve as great conversation-starters the next time you have guests over. You can also Uno-Reverse it, and pop your BBQ and drinks menu on it during gatherings.

17. Pick a wildlife-friendly pond

If you prefer your backyard to look more natural, or if you want to attract more wildlife, consider building a garden pond. A pond is an easy DIY project that can be tackled in a weekend, but the positives for your backyard are plentiful and long-lasting.

Ponds not only increase micro-habitats and attract wildlife, but also improve drainage and make your backyard less vulnerable to floods. Position yours next to a seating area to maximize on the natural ambiance. Learn how to care for ferns to add lots of greenery.

18. Pitch up a pergola

A pergola can transform your backyard in several ways. First, it can help create a cozy, enclosed seating area, especially if you train some climbing plants to grow up it. It can also improve privacy if your backyard is more open concept, overlooked by neighbours or faces a road. 

You can learn how to build a pergola on a DIY basis — just make sure you invest in sturdy, quality wood. Ideally, building a pergola is a two-person job. Once yours is up and running, accent your pergola area with the best outdoor furniture for a polished look.

19. Work with your landscape

Whether you are exploring sloping garden ideas or if your backyard is positioned on a steep incline, try to work with what you have rather than trying to change the landscape or work against it. Whatever your terrain, it's always better (and cheaper) to work around it. This is also a great technique to implement when planning cottage gardens.

If you are dead-set on changing it, consider learning how to level a yard yourself and spent the savings on furnishing it. 

20. Plant ornamental grasses

If you want a low-maintenance backyard landscaping idea that delivers on visual impact, planting ornamental grasses will be your best friend.

Grasses grow quickly, add texture and dimension to your backyard planting, and look stunning at sunset. You can't go wrong with these plants, and they look amazing with virtually any backyard design style. 

Some flowers also provide beautiful blooms annually so learning how to care for hydrangeas will stand you (and your outdoor space) in good stead in the long run.

21. Add a few planters

Garden borders present many opportunities to get imaginative with your backyard design. 

One of the easiest things you can do to instantly add more interest is to create the illusion of more height with a large, tall planter. Choose a mixture of upright-growing and trailing plants for even more effect. 

22. Break up the space with a garden path

Exploring backyard path ideas is a must if yours is all lawn and doesn't have distinct zones. 

Laying down a garden path will instantly break up the space visually. It will also make walking around the backyard much easier and more pleasurable. 

A garden path doesn't have to be expensive or installed professionally — many designs, including those with pavers, can be installed on a DIY basis (the Worth Garden Wooden Pathway is Amazon's Choice). 

23. Wow with a water feature

The easiest way to add a dose of serene sophistication to your backyard? A water feature! Whether your space is sprawling or you have a postage-stamp-sized outdoor space, a water feature is quick to install and instantly makes your space feel and sound more relaxing.

24. Reach for a retaining wall

Not only does a retaining wall look aesthetically pleasing and elegant, it actually comes with a handful of practical benefits as well, including flood control, slowing down soil erosion, and even creating an attractive property boundary marker should that be a sticking point with a neighbour.

25. Decorate with succulents

We are big fans of east to care for plants that you can't kill, which is why succulents are a no-brainer for every type of backyard or balcony space. Whichever type you choose, their cool colors, shapes, and textures will bring a modern feel to your outdoor space. 

Just pop them in coarse, gritty soil in a pot with drainage, set them up in a sunny spot, and let nature do the rest. 

26. Play with contrasting patterns

Not all beautiful backyard ideas have to be labor-intensive or expensive. You can add softness, color, and design interest with printed cushions and a tablecloth. The bright soft furnishings used in this idea are made with stunning fabrics from Vanessa Arbuthnott.

27. Fake foliage on a balcony

If you want a good outdoor space, but have zero space (and zero green thumbs), then this DIY idea is for you. 

Build a green wall for your balcony, patio or other outdoor space using fake flowers. This one, pictured above, has been made using a combination of artificial lilies, monstera leaves, and IKEA's very handy faux plant wall panels. 

28. Try floor paint

Getting artsy in a small backyard goes a long way, and the proof is in this stunning patio floor. The terrazzo print was simply created using masonry paint, and toothbrushes, but the effect is second to none. 

Despite it being such a simple painting hack, it adds instant color, energy, and interest, and is much more affordable than pulling up old patio tiles and replacing them. 

29. Throw down a rug

Bring your living room outdoors by adding a jazzy rug and creating a centerpiece-worthy backyard ideas.

Use throws and small rugs for more cozy vibes, which will take a more modern setting from day to night. For example, we love the Outdoor Filifera Palm Pink Rug from Ruggable.

30. Create an outdoor room

Whether you have a small greenhouse, tiny balcony, or a super modern backyard with a couple of areas, make the most of it by setting up a lush lounging spot with shelter from the elements. 

This is on of those lovely backyard ideas that speaks to us both on a visual and practical level.

FAQs

How can I make my backyard more attractive?

Patios are your best bet where it comes to backyard ideas that really make a difference to the overall look of your space.

The other aspect to always keep in mind is maintenance. "Mow your lawn frequently to keep it short and neat, remove weeds, prune your plants, and keep everything well-watered so your yard and plants stay green and healthy," says Jeremy Yamaguchi, the CEO of Lawn Love.

Learn when to start mowing a lawn, and how to mow a lawn without killing off your grass.

What is the cheapest way to landscape a backyard?

If your backyard ideas have a fixed budget, there are a few areas you can tackle for big design returns with a relatively small spend. A paver patio will cost around $5,000. A patio can naturally serve as an entertainment space but can also function as a meditation or yoga area for relaxation and exercise.'

If your budget is significantly smaller, Yamaguchi recommends trees and shrubs. A young tree will only cost $100-200 and will look better with each passing year.

By bringing a mixture of flowers, furniture, and clever decor into your backyard, you can create a stunning area that you and your guests can enjoy lounging.

Once you've got the basics down, you might also find backyard privacy ideas handy for creating a secluded space.

If you need some privacy, these Home Depot backyard buys will help block out unwanted sneak peeks from nosy neighbors who are living a little too close for comfort.

From pretty screens and useful free standing fences, to hedges and large gardening pots, the budget offerings include plenty of stylish and functional pieces that will complement your outdoor decor while providing a little shelter from nosy next-door neighbors (and beyond). And as your plants grow up them, bring in the foundations of even better privacy next year.

Start browsing for backyard privacy ideas that exude style and security. BBQ season is right around the corner, and you're operating on an invite-only basis.

Shop Home Depot backyard buys for privacy

This is the perfect time of year to mull over fencing, pergolas, and so on. Not only are you sprucing up your space for outdoor entertaining, but the Home Depot Spring Black Friday Sale 2024 is underway throughout April, and deals abound. 

Without further ado, these Home Depot backyard privacy ideas are here to shield your space and look adorable at the same time — all without breaking the bank.

Should you want to get a little more creative with your seclusion style, you can pile up outdoor potted plants of different sizes to block out onlookers from snooping in your backyard. 

Deck shade ideas can be especially helpful as well, including the workpoint 6 ft. x 8 ft. Red Rectangle Sun Shade Sail at Home Depot for $16.57 or the Pure Garden 9 ft. Aluminum Outdoor Patio Umbrella at Home Depot for $50.99. 

For those with a little more space, Home Depot's 10' x 10' Khaki Patio Double-Vent Gazebo with Privacy Netting  (on sale for $241.24) is another potential contender. 

Still shopping? Lowe's SpringFest 2024 takes place until May 1 and offers discounts on lawn and garden care, patio furniture, grills, and more accessories to help you achieve your favorite small backyard ideas.

Let's be honest: backyard games for adults are as necessary for your outdoor space as a new bed of pansies and comfy lounge chairs. 

Once the warm weather and sunshine swoop in, you'll feel inclined to take your activities al fresco. Why not designate a spot for some competitive fun after the BBQ you've been planning? 

Small backyard ideas are incomplete without entertainment, no matter who's over for a visit, so start scoping out a few fun and budget-friendly game selections ASAP. 

Backyard games for adults under $40

Aesthetics are important when creating the ultimate outdoor oasis, but once you have your backyard privacy ideas on lock, your garden intact, and your lawn care up to snuff, what's next? Backyard games for adults and families will inject some fun.

What to shop

If you're planning on outdoor entertaining this season, or if you'd simply like a retreat once your office hours wrap up for the day, these fun selections will beckon you into the backyard.

Should you have more space to work with, consider the GoSports Ladder Toss Game Set from Target for $32.99, WOOD CITY Giant Tumbling Timber Tower Game from Amazon, a Jenga dupe that expands from 2-4', or Magnolia's Indoor/Outdoor Roll-up Shuffleboard on sale for $28.

Prices were correct at the time of publication.

If you're looking for more ways to stay busy in the backyard, the best outdoor projectors will come in handy for a movie night once the sun goes down. And, if the weather is still on the cool side, fire pits will keep you cozy while you burn marshmallows for s'mores.

Katie Couric's backyard proves that the journalist and new grandma has mastered easy outdoor furniture.

In a fun tribute to World Poetry Day, Katie took to the platform with her favorite E. E. Cummings piece, "Maggie and Milly and Molly and May," all while basking in her bucolic surroundings.

If you're searching for small backyard ideas in preparation for the warm weather, you'll want to check out what the reporter has cooked up in her space, particularly when it comes to seating.

Check out Katie Couric's backyard

While going through each verse of the poem, you can't help but notice Katie's gorgeous florals and cozy hammock in the distance — hot real estate on warm, sunny days, no doubt. It looks like a great place to curl up with a poetry collection regularly, so we asked designer Nina Lichtenstein how to make the nook happen in a small outdoor space. 

"Choose a location that offers both tranquility and visual appeal," she says. "Seek out areas with natural beauty, whether it's beneath the shade of a leafy tree, overlooking a serene garden, or alongside a sparkling pool."

From there, you'll want to work with the best material for outdoor furniture, like weather-resistant fabric or synthetic rope, to ensure that you're going to be supported while you kick back with a book. 

"Ensure the stability and safety of your outdoor hammock by installing sturdy supports or anchors," Nina adds. "Whether it's securing the hammock between two sturdy trees, attaching it to a pergola or outdoor beams, or utilizing freestanding hammock stands, prioritize stability to enjoy worry-free relaxation."

As much as you might want to copy the look of the Katie Couric Instagram post, Nina doesn't want you to be afraid to switch things up, either. She suggests adding outdoor decor trends like fun cushions and throws, outdoor string lights, and even plants. 

"Embrace the alfresco lifestyle and transform your outdoor oasis into a haven of comfort and elegance," she adds. 

Even if you're working with a small space, envision creating a nice retreat, full of greenery, where you can simply unwind. 

What to shop

If the Katie Couric Instagram shot has left you feeling inspired to do some al fresco decorating, shop these fun picks to embrace a similar style:

Have other backyard pockets of space you'd like to fill? The best outdoor furniture will help you get started on the refresh.

When it comes to finding the latest outdoor living and backyard trends, Bobby Berk is one to watch for sure. We all take upgrading our backyards for summer that little bit more seriously nowadays and it's no secret that living more sustainably is also at the forefront of our minds. So Bobby couldn't have revealed his favorite eco-friendly backyard upgrade at a better time.  

The interior designer and star of Netflix’s Queer Eye who recently partnered with Yelp says 'Nothing excites me more than the promise of warmer weather and spending more time outdoors, so I’m thrilled to partner with Yelp to share up-and-coming trends for the backyard and beyond.' 

The legacy of the pandemic is that our outdoor spaces are so much more than just something pretty to look at from inside the home. But while the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 provided backyard owners with the time for large-scale upgrades that included hot tubs, outdoor kitchen areas, and brand-new patios, this year it’s all about more low-key investments that can still make a big impact on the styling of your outdoor space – without increasing your carbon footprint.

Bobby Berk’s best backyard upgrade for 2022

'When it comes to design inspiration and summer décor updates, 2022 will continue to spotlight a return to aesthetics inside and out, whether that’s installing a skylight to bring more natural light in, or adding solar lights to easily elevate a backyard’s ambiance.' 

And, if you decide to just add one new backyard idea this summer, Bobby says it should be solar-powered outdoor lighting.

‘I’ve been using solar lights for years now, and not only are they an easy installation, but they don’t require any power, which means that you can add them virtually anywhere.’ 

What we love about this backyard upgrade is that it is so simple and still leaves plenty of room for your own individual preferences, giving you considerable freedom in terms of exploring different outdoor lighting ideas. ‘Whether you want to hang overhead cafe lights for ambiance, or uplights to create an evening glow, it’s an investment you will not regret.’ Adds Berk. 

The best solar-powered lights come in a huge variety of shapes, from glowing globes you can simply stick into the ground to solar-powered fairy lights for the classic romantic evening look. You can also get solar-powered lanterns with candles that look just like real ones. 

Bobby believes that not decorating your yard with outdoor lighting is a ‘missed opportunity’ since ‘adding outdoor lighting to your yard allows you to use it even after the sun goes down.’

The biggest backyard trend is also eco-friendly

Needless to say, solar-powered outdoor lighting is also the most sustainable outdoor lighting option there is – you’ll never need to replace batteries or use your main electric supply. Which makes it doubly trendy. As Bobby explains, ‘we are becoming more and more aware of the impact our daily choices make on the environment.’ Switching to solar-powered decorative lighting is part of the bigger trend to making our homes and yards more sustainable.

The contemporary home that’s right on-trend will probably also have an electric vehicle charging station (Bobby has recently had one added to his home after buying an electric car), a water-butt for water conservation on the side of the property, and LED lights and smart bulbs inside the home. It’s all about using a mixture of the latest technology and sustainable home improvements like solar lighting, water butts, and permeable paving – all have been done for generations. 

In 2022, don’t be afraid to combine old and new to make your home and yard more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. 

Bobby’s tips have been developed in collaboration with Yelp.

Backyards and outdoor space have never been more in the spotlight. You may have already spruced up your yard over the last couple of years but there's always room for more, right? If you're conscious that you might one day sell your home and are looking to make a profit (who isn't?), you're probably only going to want to spend the time and money on backyard improvements that add value to your home. Thankfully, there is lots that you can do to spruce up your backyard ideas for summertime entertaining and that will positively impact your home's curb appeal also. 

'Backyard improvements increase your entertaining square footage' says Jenny Usaj, employing broker and co-owner of Usaj Realty, a real estate brokerage in Denver, CO. 'While not technically heated or cooled to be calculated livable square feet, backyard ‘living rooms’ are certainly a great addition,' she adds.

Rinal Patel, Licensed Realtor and Co-Founder of We Buy Philly Home, a house flipping and rental business serving the greater Philadelphia region says 'While the weather is nice, take advantage of it and create an outdoor living space that you and your family can enjoy for many summers to come. This can be anything from a simple patio to a more elaborate outdoor kitchen.'

1. A patio

The simple addition of a patio is a no-brainer backyard improvement to add value to your home. Whether you install outdoor tile or pavers, carving out even a small patio will allow you to create more room for outdoor living which is now an intrinsic part of a happy home life. 

Patel adds 'Outdoor living spaces are great for entertaining guests, and they can add value to your home because they make it more attractive to potential buyers.' Once you've done the ground work – pun intended – add more personality by investing in patio furniture, outdoor rugs, lighting and more to create a relaxed and convivial ambiance sure to wow any guests.

'To add to this, you can also do some simple landscaping projects to spruce up your yard and make it more inviting. These projects can be as simple as planting some flowers or trimming the hedges. By making these types of improvements to your home, you'll be able to enjoy a nicer space and also increase its value.' Continues Patel.

2. Spruced up landscape

Which takes us onto garden landscaping. Never underestimate its importance – even in the backyard – as it relates to curb appeal. 'Many times, when I go to show a home with bad landscaping or no landscaping, my buyers are turned off by the whole property,' reveals Gelios. 'Homeowners can spruce up their landscaping with low maintenance plants and shrubs to increase the curb appeal.' So, what does he recommend?  'Concrete walkways, a medium sized tree and flowering shrubs can set you back around $6-7,000 but gain a return on investment of 80-85 percent.' And as a bonus, you’ll enjoy this beautified space while you’re living there.  

Karagannis also believes that sprucing up your landscape can improve your home’s value. 

'Planting perennials is very important, as perennials will reappear year after year and will be a constant reminder of the different seasons of the year,' he explains. 'Annuals are also very important for bringing added color and will remain flowering from early spring into fall, and each year you have the opportunity to change the selection.'

Chase Michels, a Broker at Chase & Patti Michels, Chicago shares how 'Hiring a landscaper is time and money well spent. A review of research by Alex X. Niemiera, a horticulturist at Virginia Tech, found that a well-landscaped home had a 5.5-12.7% price advantage over a home with no landscaping. That translates into an extra $16,500 to $38,100 in value on a $300,000 home. Niemera states that the number-one thing that buyers are looking for in landscaping is a sophisticated design. Close behind is plant size and maturity.'

Michels adds how 'Planting trees around the home offers shade and protection from the elements. This can decrease your utilities and add curb appeal.'

3. Outdoor fire pit 

The beauty of an outdoor fire pit is that it allows you to be comfortable in your backyard when the weather turns cool or downright cold. 

'One of the hottest improvements a homeowner can add to their backyard is an outdoor fire pit installation - that is oftentimes gas powered - with stone décor walls and patio tile,' explains Jason Gelios, a realtor at Community Choice Realty in Detroit, MI. 

If you spend $6,000 to $8,000 on a custom outdoor fire pit, Gelios says the ROI when you sell the home is roughly 60-70percent. 'This can be huge, because a homeowner could enjoy the comfort and ambience of an outdoor fire pit but not lose all their money when they decide to sell,' Gelios says. 

And if you don’t want to spend that much, Bill Golden, a realtor/associate broker at RE/MAX Around Atlanta, GA, has another option. 'At my own home, we were going to build a fire pit, but decided to experiment by using a pre-made fire pit, and liked it so much that it became our permanent solution,' he says. Regardless of which type of fire pit you choose, Golden believes it is certainly a worthwhile backyard project. 'The added value of a fire pit helps a potential buyer see that this home has the room and amenities in place to enjoy it across varying seasons.'

4. Privacy fence

How much time homeowners spend in their backyards depends not only on physical comfort, but also the level of solitude and isolation afforded from neighbors. As the poet David Frost said, 'Good fences make good neighbors.' However, if you don’t have the budget (or the will) to put up a full-length fence, David Charette, licensed interior designer and founder of Britto Charette in Miami, FL, offers two alternative backyard screening solutions. First, he recommends using greenery. 'Potted plants and trellises can provide privacy – and also add color to your backyard.' In fact, even if your only backyard space is a balcony, Charette says plants and trellises will work well. 

'You can also use decorative fencing - create layers of privacy using decorative panels made of wrought iron, stone, or wood, combined with fabrics and greenery,' he recommends. 

5. Outdoor kitchen

To Patrick Garrett, a broker/owner in Birmingham, AL, an outdoor kitchen is the first backyard improvement that comes to mind when deciding what will add value. 'A fabulous outdoor kitchen can really make a home stand out against its competition.' However, he warns that not all outdoor spaces are created equal. 'To get the biggest ROI, you will want to ensure the outdoor kitchen space is truly functional, and one that can be used at least three out of four seasons,' Garrett advises. 

So, what does this entail?  'A ceiling fan to enjoy a cool breeze on hot summer days, and a fireplace or fire pit to warm up during those cool fall evenings,' he says. In addition, Garrett recommends that the outdoor kitchen have plenty of counter space for prepping food and party supplies. 'It should also have a nearby sink for washing hands, and of course a space and electrical connection to hang a television for that big game event,' he says. It goes without saying that the best grill you can afford will go a long way too.

6. Deck     

A deck can increase your livable outdoor space, and that’s why broker Ted Karagannis, of Warburg Realty in New York City, recommends it. In fact, he really likes tiered or multi-level decks. 'Creating wooden platforms for different level decks is a fantastic way to bring interest in creating exciting environments, and will add much value to your backyard experience,' he says.

But before you build a deck (or have one built), there are a few steps you need to take first. 'It’s vital that you check with your local ordinances to see what’s required by the local municipality’s code to build a deck,' advises Joe Raboine, director of residential hardscapes at Belgard. 'Second, be sure to have a professional engineer the deck to ensure that the joists are properly spaced, and that the number of supports/footings is correct.'

7. Pool   

A pool is a significant investment, and Golden says the added value varies greatly – but is increasing. 'In the past, there were as many people specifically looking for a pool as there were people who wouldn't buy a house with a pool,' he explains. But the pandemic changed that equation. 'People are spending way more time at home now, and that has increased the demand for pools.' Golden says there are around five pools being installed in his neighborhood right now since they’re in such demand. 

'Part of the value quotient here - as with many such improvements - is how long you plan on staying in your home.' He admits that you’re not doing to get a dollar-for-dollar ROI. 'But, if you get to enjoy it for many years and it's a selling point when you put your home on the market, it can definitely be worth the investment.'

Maya Vander, Miami-based realtor associate, known well for her time on Netflix's Selling Sunset agrees that post-pandemic especially people want to invest in above ground pools and that typically this offers the best ROI, 'I didn’t want to have a pool because of my children, because I don’t want any risk but a lot of people want to have a pool' saying that people do prioritize getting them installed. 

8. Pergola/shade structure

This is another backyard improvement that can add value and usable space. 'If a home has a large backyard, but there are no shaded areas for sitting and enjoying a cool summer breeze after a long day’s work, a pergola could be a great option,' Garrett explains. 'There are many value-add options with a pergola, such as adding electrical outlets or building a fire pit in the center for enjoyment during those intimate conversations on cool days.' In fact, Garrett says some homeowners even add a roof, lights, and a ceiling fan to increase functionality.

Usaj agrees, adding that an outdoor pergola with furniture and a rug does wonders in enhancing a standard outdoor space. 'Creating a sense of place within your backyard for entertaining will increase your home value as this is an amenity many people are looking for as they continue to work from home and entertain friends and family.'

In fact, that’s why Golden says he built a shade structure in his own backyard. 'We have a large deck adjoining our backyard pool, but it's in direct sun for much of the day,' he explains. 'Building a shade structure not only gave us a way to better enjoy our outdoor space, but for relatively little money it created another outdoor room, which definitely adds value to the home.' There is lots to inspire a cool shaded deck space nowadays also.

9. Herb garden  

In addition to adding plants to your backyard to beautify your landscape, Karagannis believes there’s something else you can plant that would be appealing to buyers. 'It’s also great to create an herb and vegetable garden, especially now that many of us are cooking three meals a day from our homes,' he says. 'There is nothing more satisfying than growing your own herbs and vegetables and being able to handpick your spices, tomatoes, lettuce, etc. to complete your fine meals.'

10. Screened-in porch  

One person who has always been a huge advocate of screened-in porches is Golden, and he’s glad the market has finally caught up. 'Buyers tell me all the time that they want some sort of ‘outdoor room,’ which is how a screened porch functions,' he says. They can run from a simple screened structure to an elaborate room like one of my recent listings had, including a fireplace, heater, and hidden TV.' He recommends consulting with a realtor familiar with your area to determine what makes the most sense for your home.  'This is another scenario in which the ROI is hard to calculate, but since it is more of an extension of your home than other backyard updates, you are likely to see a great ROI.'

These side yard ideas will help you transform this often dead outdoor space into a fully functional and beautiful area for all to enjoy. Side yards are inherently tricky spaces. Often narrow and somewhat dark, they can end up being neglected or even completely unused. When actually if you get clever with how you design and arrange the space you do have, you could consider squeezing in patio furniture or even your best grill... 

So in the same way that clever backyard ideas can transform even a tiny space, good side yard ideas can add a lot of interest and extra room for relaxing, socializing, or even growing produce in. Let's explore the options.

1. Side yard in the shade? Plant shade-tolerant plants

Many side yards have a difficult aspect, either in part or full shade. If this is true of yours, it doesn't have to mean a side yard without plants. Choose shade plants that will thrive in low light. Ferns, hostas, and acers are just several examples of plants you can grow in a shady side yard, as demonstrated in this beautiful example designed by Visionscapes NW Landscape Design

2. Create a low-maintenance design

If you aren't planning on actually using your side yard much and just want it to look nice, or if your side yard is difficult to access and you want to not have to do much to it, consider a simpler design with low-maintenance plants, gravel, and a contemporary garden screening idea. 

This striking yet low-maintenance side yard design is by GSW Architects. 

3. Start a vegetable garden in your side yard

If you are lucky enough to have a side yard with a sunny aspect, why not start a kitchen garden? A sheltered side yard is ideal for growing all kinds of vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, but you could even grow citrus trees if you live in an area with hot, dry summers. 

This pretty and productive kitchen garden in a side yard has been designed by Sweet Smiling Landscapes.

4. Add a water feature for contemporary appeal

If you want to use your side yard purely for relaxation, then a water feature can go a long way to creating a zen vibe. You can simply buy a freestanding water feature, or, if you are getting your side yard redesigned, have one built in for a sleek, contemporary effect. 

This stunning side yard with a built-in water feature has been created by Studio H. 

5. Use the area as outdoor storage

Side yards are great candidates for experimenting with clever garden storage ideas. If your space is far too small to accommodate a shed, you may be able to create the storage you need on a DIY basis if you know how to work with wood, or do what real estate investor Donald Olhausen, owner of We Buy Houses in San Diego, does. Olhausen says: 'for more narrow side yards, there are always outdoor racks and other space savers that can help you get the most out of your side yard. Look at different storage ideas that will work with your space, that way you can utilize every part of your lot to its highest and best use.'

6. Grow flowers

You don't have to restrict yourself to ferns and evergreens. Many side yard can accommodate flowers, although you may have to be clever about the type of garden plants and flowers you choose to grow. As David Martinez, of Gardener's Dream, tells us, you'll need to choose plants 'that can thrive depending on how much sun or shade there is along the day. Remember that if you don't have much space, you can always use containers instead of planting the flowers in the soil.'

Sweet peas have been planted in this pretty side yard in Melbourne designed by Gardens in Abundance. Sweet peas look great against a fence as they grow quite tall, but they don't need much space to grow. Tall, narrow containers are best for them.

7. Create an outdoor kitchen in your side yard

If your side yard is a bit more spacious, or even if it's just a small square space rather than a very narrow one, you can use it to create an outdoor kitchen.  This can be as simple as lining your bbq, side table or workspace, and a dining table against the wall or fence. 

8. Elevate the design with a large container

Container gardening can be a great solution to side yards that don't have any soil for planting. If you are choosing between one large planter and several smaller ones, go for the large one. It will make more of an impact and help prevent the space from looking cluttered. 

9. Create a relaxation area with a pool and deck

Side yards can be brilliant spaces for exploring pool deck ideas. If your side yard gets even a bit of sun, say in the morning or the afternoon, it has the potential to become a relaxing space for swimming and lounging. Bear in mind that if you have a pool put in, you won't have much room for anything else and will need to get slimline sun loungers. This gorgeous side yard with a pool and deck is by Dawson Clinton. 

What can I do with a narrow side yard?

Decent-sized side yards present far fewer issues than narrow ones. If your side yard is narrow, Michele Chambliss, of Perennial Garden Consultants, advises that 'The first thing to determine is how the space is used--a side yard used for access from the front of the property to the back would be designed differently than one cut off by a wall or fence. Sometimes a side yard is visible from windows inside the home. Projects often present the challenge of creating a prettier view than just a side yard wall.'

If this is you, then layered planting is a must. 'Shade tolerant climbing vines are very useful in these tight spaces, creating a layer of green to soften side yard walls. A small patio tree, such as a standard wax leaf privet Ligustrum japonicum 'Texanum,' can provide a focal point, with an understory planting making up the final layer.'

If you'll need access through your side yard, 'Start with a pathway, allowing for planting space on both or either side of the walkway. Then add in shade-loving plants, including vines, small shrubs, perennials, and ground covers, as space allows. Don't want plants getting too large and growing over the walkway? Knowing the mature sizes of plants prior to purchase and installation helps curtail future maintenance headaches.'

How can I make a side yard more secure?

Properties with unsecured, dark sideyards are more vulnerable to burglaries, so thinking about making yours more secure is important.  Kristen Bolig, CEO of Security Nerd, recommends installing 'some kind of outdoor lighting, whether it be pathway lights or an overhead light, at each side yard so that burglars are not able to slip into your backyard without being seen. It is also never a bad idea to put up security cameras at these locations.'

Tiny yard? We all have them, generation rent or not. While it's an easy mistake to want to downsize all manner of outdoor furniture, choose only dwarf varieties of plants, or take a quiet approach when styling your space, award-winning garden designer Kate Gould advises otherwise. 

Kate Gould launched her garden design company Kate Gould Gardens in 1998. Since then she has won 5 gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show, and become one of London's most sought-after garden designers.

Kate's RHS Chelsea garden for 2022 is all about creating a sanctuary-like space in a small garden plot, ideal not only to grow plants in but also as a natural extension of our homes. 

Knowing how to make a small yard look bigger is all about getting creative and while you may be inclined to nod to a minimalist look or approach, Kate warns that this is a mistake and you should always go bigger. 

'A bold approach works for small spaces. If you put lots of small things in a compact area it will feel smaller. Go big, go bold (even if it feels scary and wrong) and the end result will be so much better for it.'

Kate Gould's small yard design tips

'You will be amazed by how much you can fit into a small space with careful planning,' says Kate. 'Don’t be daunted by a small garden’s lack of acreage. Instead, be enthused by the challenge of fitting a quart into a pint pot and be aware that by greening up your own urban space you are contributing to a much greater picture.'

If you're not sure where to start, here are Kate's top tips for going big in a small space.

• See how DIY lovers transformed their backyard into a stylish outdoor living space on a budget

1. Include large, architectural plants for drama

'For small spaces, large architectural plants undeniably add drama; leaves, stems, and form combined together making a strong statement. They work on all scales, from large country estates to tiny town gardens,' says Kate. 

'Their ability to transform a space, however, often simply by a single presence, is highlighted in small gardens, where their leaves add interest and shadow during the day and create nothing short of 'ooomph' at night, especially when paired with lighting.'

2. Declutter and build-in boundaries

'Successful small gardens must contain all the components that make modern interaction with the garden possible – and that doesn’t necessarily mean the plants,' Kate explains. 

'Living an ‘inside-outside’ lifestyle requires hard surfaces for dining and lounging, space for children to play safely, areas for quiet relaxation as well as those for entertaining. Shoehorning all of these requirements into a small space without it feeling cluttered is possible.'

'Try building in furniture around the perimeter of the space rather than using stand-alone elements in the center. This will allow you to create integrated storage solutions for cushions and small gardening tools on the boundaries while keeping the center of the space open and more flexible.'

3. Supersize plant pots

If you're an avid container gardener, rethink cramming tonnes of small pots into an empty corner.

'Supersize your pots and troughs. Use one large planter rather than a group of pots to create impact,' says Kate. 'This will ensure that the space remains uncluttered but still has drama. One planter is less to water and maintain, too. 

4. Incorporate mirrors

'Mirror-polished stainless-steel and mirrors have the ability to bounce light around and also create illusions of space. They should be sited with planting surrounding them.'

Wondering what the cost to level a yard might be? We've got the lowdown.

If you seem to have more mosquitoes because of water pools in low areas of your lawn, or you have water getting into your basement with heavy rainfall, it sounds like your yard needs a bit of leveling. 

So, let’s look at how much it could cost to regrade a yard, the reasons for leveling a yard and how to level a yard right.

How much does it cost to level a yard or regrade a yard?

The cost to regrade or level a yard depends on a few factors.

According to the home services website Fixr, most homeowners pay between $1,500 and $2,600 to level a 1,000 square foot area. And to re-grade the same size yard with a 2-foot slope, the average cost is $1,800. 

However, the costs range from $550 for a small, 250 square-foot yard with minimal slope to $8,200 for a large, 2,500 square-foot yard with a 5-foot slope. If you're looking to do a larger project and more extensive leveling, garden landscaping costs will depend on the entire design.

Top reasons to level or regrade your yard

There are several reasons to regrade or level your yard or sloping garden. And no matter what your reason is, the results will improve how the soil manages water and provide the perfect surface for your outdoor living enjoyment.

Installing a pool – If you’re installing a pool in your backyard, it must rest on a level surface. The difference of just a couple of inches can cause the weight of the water to damage the walls and liner and possibly even collapse. 

Installing other recreation areas – Volleyball, basketball, and croquet all need a level playing field, literally. And the last thing you want is to twist an ankle coming down in a hole while playing. 

Correct poor drainage – Poor drainage causes low spots in the yard where water pools. Those pools attract mosquitoes and kill grass and other plants. Leveling out those areas corrects the problem. Sometimes the slope of the lawn needs correcting because it drains toward the house's foundation. When that happens, water enters the basement and compromises the structure. Re-grading the slope diverts the water elsewhere.

Repair damage from insects or disease – Some creepy-crawly lawn enemies live in the grass layer of your yard. When you re-grade the area, fresh topsoil replaces those unwanted pests and the dirt they live in. And by leveling out low spots, you remove the chance of excessive moisture causing mold, fungus, and disease growth.

Want a larger yard – If your yard has a steep slope, re-grading levels it out and gives you more usable area. 'It’s not just about usable space,' says Blythe Yost, landscape architect and CEO of Tilly, an online landscape design company, 'a level area looks bigger.'

Is it worth leveling a yard yourself?

Unless you have significant problems that require heavy equipment, you can re-grade your own yard. 'I would say almost anything can be DIYed, and yard re-grading is not an exclusion,' says Sean Chapman, home improvement carpenter and founder of the tool and machinery review blog Tool’n’Goods. However, according to Chapman, the job is not for the faint of heart. 

'This project isn’t technically complicated but requires a lot of heavy manual labor,' he says, 'so you should be 100 percent sure you have the time and rough muscle power to accomplish it without overstraining yourself.'

It’s important to know when to call a professional. 'Always bring in the experts for water in the basement,' says Yost. 

'This is not an area you want to mess around with.' This type of work often includes laying drainage pipe to channel the water toward the edge of the property, where it will continue on its way to a storm drain. 'Moving a yard or two of soil is within the DIY scope,' she says.

'But for more than that, it’s best to hire a professional,' as they’ll have the equipment to do the heavy work. (A yard of soil is 27 cubic feet.)

Other things to consider

Depending on your location and the type of professional you hire, how they charge will be different. Yost recommends getting a project cost based on the desired outcome to avoid incurring extra expenses you didn’t see coming.

She also recommends getting a topographical survey to create a drainage plan if you're doing a large project.

According to the National Association of REALTORS® Remodeling Impact Survey of Outdoor Features, most landscape upgrades result in a homeowner Joy Score above 9. So don’t hesitate to do the work to level your yard and enjoy your outdoor living area to its fullest.

What's the difference between leveling and grading?

Though you see the terms leveling and grading used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two. Leveling is creating a flat surface to your lawn or yard. You level the yard when you want to fill in low spots or make recreation areas, like for a swimming pool.

Grading is a garden landscaping term that refers to the slope of a yard away from the home’s foundation. Even homes that appear to be level have a gradual slope away from the house for drainage purposes. For example, you regrade your yard when you have problems with moisture in the basement or crawl space under your home.

Let's face it, most of us need small backyard ideas nowadays, because finding acres of yard space is far easier said, or dreamt, than done! But this is not a sad reality, no no, because you do not need acres to create a good-looking, styled outdoor space ready to enjoy all year long. In fact, consider your small backyard a blessing in disguise, because it will be cheaper and often easier to landscape than a larger backyard space. 

Small backyards also are made for enjoying cozy outdoor rooms and secluded nooks. By working with the space you do have, finding gems at the best outdoor furniture stores and getting a little creative with planting, you can make a major difference.

Small backyard design ideas from the experts

Whether you have a big budget or not, taking a simple approach can be enough to transform even the tiniest of verdant spaces into an inviting and relaxing spot for all to enjoy.

If you're not sure where to start, landscape designer and owner of How to Hardscape, Mike Pletz, recommends keeping your small backyard design simple and setting your goals for your space early on. 'Making a smaller outdoor plot look great involves knowing what you want to use that space for and how to incorporate all of that in an aesthetically pleasing way while making the most of that space', he advises. 

1. Enhance privacy with a living fence

Yard screening ideas are especially important in small backyards since they often border other people's. Traditional fences can look bulky in smaller outdoor spaces, so it's always a good idea to explore natural fencing ideas and options first. Bamboo is a great plant to use as backyard screening – it is low maintenance, grows very fast, and many varieties grow quite tall (well over 10 feet), so you can create a secluded area in your backyard with very little effort. Be sure you pick a non-invasive variety, however, to keep your home's foundation healthy.

2. Squeeze in a bistro set

You can still enjoy a meal outdoors, even if you don't have space for a full dining set. The best bistro sets come in a variety of styles and materials; you're pretty much guaranteed to find one that matches your backyard and home style. Surround your bistro set with colorful, multi-height plants to create a textured, romantic breakfast area.

3. Maximize every inch by creating boundaries

Do you find that you only really use one particular section of your backyard? If so, dividing your space up into specific areas is a great way to maximize every inch. In this lovely modern backyard by @ohmymaison there are three distinct areas for sunbathing, playing on the grass, and dining, ensuring that even the very bottom of the backyard is used. Flooring is a really effective way to zone an outdoor space – see how the paving, grass and decking are used here. But if you can't change your flooring, look to screens, outdoor rugs or living walls, to create distinct 'rooms' within your backyard. 

Note that if you only spend money on one aspect of your small backyard design you want to max out on the best patio ideas. Robert Bell, Residential Landscape Architect at Bell Design recommends you make it your patio paving: 'because smaller gardens don’t require as much paving, use something on the higher end side like a beautiful limestone paver or a special glazed tile as an accent.

4. Stick to simple landscaping materials

The general rule with small backyard is you don't want to use too many materials, as your space will end up looking too busy. Stick to no more than two or three different materials and/or textures to keep the look of your backyard fresh and contemporary. 

Pletz says to not overcomplicate the design unnecessarily, 'You do not want to overwhelm the space with features, colors, textures, shapes, and sizes. Instead, choose what you definitely want to include in that space and start to shape the landscape to incorporate those aspects while keeping in mind the space necessary for each of those aspects.'

This backyard, designed by Billinkoff Architecture, uses blond wood paneling in a clever corner seating/fencing design, combined with a simple gravel ground covering. Unfussy and clean. Even the best gravel for your garden won't cost much and can be laid on a DIY basis. 

5. Select a few large plants over lots of small ones

It may seem counterintuitive, but several large trees or potted shrubs look much better in a small backyard than lots of smaller plants. This is because the more height you add to a small outdoor space the bigger it looks. It also helps to space out the plants a little to prevent a crammed feel. If your backyard is all paved, just go for a few large terracotta pots – lots of trees, including lemons and acers, will happily grow in containers for many years. 

6. Take furniture off the floor

If you are exploring balcony ideas, then your space will by definition be small. You'll likely have to make some tough choices in terms of how much furniture you can fit in, and you may well decide that you don't want a traditional patio furniture set but rather something you can elevate to free up ground space, like this cute hammock. If you can comfortably fit a couple of chairs and a small table then go for it but don't shy away from different seating options also that will max out on space.

Bell has a useful tip, 'as a general rule, only cover about 1/3 of the square footage with furnishings, planters, etc., and allow any statement pieces to “breathe” with open space around them.'

7. Borrow neighboring scenery 

The easiest way to make a small backyard look bigger without spending a dime? Arrange your existing planting scheme to complement and blend in with any taller trees beyond your backyard boundaries. You'll probably end up rearranging your containers a few times to create a seamless look. Look at your backyard from the entrance point for best results. 

8. Stick to light materials

Who said there's no room for trompe l'oeil in a small backyard design? Like when you're decorating an indoor room, choosing light-colored finishes like the paving and fencing above, will brighten up your space and help it feel and appear bigger also.

9. Swimming pools aren't just for large backyards

Always dreamt of a swimming pool but have a small backyard? It's not necessarily out of reach. If your heart is set on adding a swimming pool, it can be achieved in even a tiny backyard. Obviously, you'll then have to compromise on how much patio furniture you have, and you may have to settle on a plunge pool, but don't let the small size of your outdoor space put you off having one installed. 

10. Or get a paddling pool for the kids

If a swimming pool just isn't an option in your backyard but you still want to splash around with the kids on a hot day, get one of the best paddling pools. They're cheap, easy to store and clean, and many are big enough for the whole family. 

Looking for something more permanent? Make your own stock tank pool for under $500. 

11. Create a seating area with a fire pit

Choosing the best fire pit for your backyard will partly depend on the look you prefer. Cast iron fire pits typically have more traditional bowl-shaped designs perfect for the classic backyard setup. Gas fire pits tend to look more modern and are great for contemporary backyards. Whatever style you choose, having a firepit will help create a cozy and convivial outdoor space. Do bear in mind, however, that if you live in a large city, it may be illegal to burn a firepit if the smoke blows into a neighboring backyard. And if you are setting up a firepit, ensure it doesn't sit close to any exterior furnishings for safety reasons – it's one of the worst patio decorating mistakes you could make.

12. Create a vertical garden

No room for garden beds? No problem! Create a vertical wall garden by mounting planters to your fence or patio. Or, choose a vertical planter with a built-in drip irrigation kit. If you need to move your plants with the sun, select a planter and trellis on wheels so your green babies can enjoy peak light.

13. Hang your furniture

Have a covered porch? Maximize floor space by installing a comfy hanging chair or bench. Complete the look by favoring plants in macramé plant pots, and add faux fur toss pillows for a boho vibe.

14. Downsize your grill

Nothing says summer like throwing a few hot dogs on the grill. And a small backyard doesn't have to keep you from that quintessential experience! Opt for a petite gas grill with folding arms and wheels for easy storage. If you're really hurting for space, you can also go for a portable bbq for your balcony or porch. 

15. Swing small

Your small backyard may not have room for a large swing set, but that doesn't mean your tot can't enjoy a jungle gym of his own! Try a freestanding swing or a cool saucer swing like the Luna from Wayfair that you can hang from a sturdy tree branch or mount under a deck.

16. Add height with string lights

Yard lighting ideas always come in handy when it comes to enhancing a small backyard. One big benefit to a small space is you can make a strong impact with cafe lights by stringing them across your whole space. The more the merrier to create the feel of a charming, Brooklyn cocktail bar. Nothing to hang lights from? No problem — install handy string light posts to your table with a simple clamp.

17. Invest in folding furniture

Folding furniture is a great way to enjoy a meal outside without taking up precious real estate when it's time to play. Look for a set that tucks within itself for easy storage, or consider a balcony dining set for your back porch.

18. Add a rug to your driveway

If you don't have a patio, throw an outdoor rug down on the back of your driveway to designate an outdoor dining area. It offers a nice spot to eat without bugs, and you'll save precious grassy space for playing or gardening. 

19. Have fun with a bar on wheels

You don't need a fancy outdoor kitchen or bar to enjoy a boozy afternoon outdoors. Opt for a cooler on wheels (like this retro pink bar cart from Bed, Bath & Beyond) or make your own. Any type of vessel that can hold ice — a birdbath, planter, kiddie pool, or beach pale — can become an instant cooler.

20. Don't underestimate the power of containers

Garden beds take up a lot of room and require expensive installation (or very handy DIY skills). A container garden is a great way to enjoy fresh flowers and vegetables in the warmer months. Choose large pots, or go for a raised bed that can fit on your patio. The best part? No weeding! 

21. Create a fairy garden

Even the smallest of yards is big to a fairy. Create your own charming fairy garden with gathered items like moss, stones, and pieces of wood. Or, purchase a handmade kit from Etsy to add characters straight out of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

22. Put down a temporary path in a rented backyard

Add some hardscaping to your small backyard without the investment by putting down a removable roll-out pathway, which you can buy on Amazon. The path will add style points but also has practical benefits — like reducing the amount of mud tracked into your house. 

23. Discover the power of soft furnishings

If you only have space for one outdoor sofa and a couple of chairs, enhance the seating area with well-chosen soft furnishings. Textured cushions and a nice outdoor rug will go a long way toward creating a polished, stylish look, even if your backyard is very small. 

24. Mix materials to create an illusion of a bigger space

Small backyard ideas can be quite subtle. Take this one, using zoning, a trick usually reserved for breaking up large indoor rooms into different areas – say, one for relaxing, and one for dining. The key to backyard zoning is using different textures, colors, and/or materials to differentiate between the areas. Flooring, for example, is perfect for doing this and will create a larger-feeling, more interesting outdoor living space.

This clever small backyard design by Anna Carin Design combines decking and patio paving to achieve a space-enhancing effect. 

25. Include a backyard bar

A small backyard space doesn't mean you can't include a bar. Make yours bespoke so that it fits your space perfectly, or choose one on wheels and with a shelf or two for additional storage to enjoy it in all seasons.

26. Add accessories that multitask

Every detail counts in a small garden so when you're adding those final touches, make sure they work hard at both looking stylish and being practical too.

27. Bring decking up the wall

Enhance a small decked area furthermore by continuing the hard landscaping up the surrounding walls also. And, we've plenty more small garden decking ideas where that came from.

28. Choose a statement egg chair

Swap out a cramped feeling space for a luxurious one by carefully selecting the best hanging chair or egg chair. An egg chair now features in most of our homes and it elevates this small space perfectly. Find one in rattan for extra points.

29. Stack pots in multiple heights to add dimension

Cute garden plants can revive even the smallest of backyard, especially if yours is mainly patio or decking. The trick is to go for as many different types and heights of pots and plants as possible: this will help add dimension and texture to the space. For instance, mix and match large terracotta pots with tall and slender glazed pots. And if you have a really small space, stack them up like this or wall-hang them to pack more in.

30. Use partial screening for a contemporary look

In a small backyard, it's best to avoid solid screening and fencing. Instead, go for a minimalist, open-panel design that will give enough privacy without making your outdoor space feel clautrophobic. 

31. Add a mini shed

If your outdoor space is really very small, go super slimline with your shed for more garden storage. That way you can keep useful items close by, without impacting on room for entertaining and actually gardening in.

32. Frame a cute patio with a pergola

What small patios and terraces lack in floor space, they can make up for with a sense of airiness and height. Emphasize these positives with an attractive pergola or even a canopy. So long as you can hang outdoor lighting and lanterns from above, you're golden.

33. Or fit a pergola into a small corner

This lovely compact backyard doesn't have acres, but defining the decking with a pergola proves how it can enhance even just a corner of a small space. String up the fairy lights, add an outdoor sofa and there's your little but lovely setup sorted. For even more character and to custom make yours to size, you could learn how to build a pergola yourself.

34. Enhance small backyard landscaping with a central gravel path

Gravel is a great material for creating fluid, easy-going paths that are flattering in backyards big and small. To create an illusion of space as part of your small backyard landscaping, build a central path surrounded by luscious borders. 

35. Create a small but luxurious outdoor relaxation area

Even the tiniest yard can become a luxurious, relaxing sanctuary. You will have to decide what's most important to you – a fully planted up outdoor space, a nook for reading, perhaps even a tiny swimming pool... Once you've decided what you want your space to be like, there's no reason you can't achieve it, with the help of a skillful garden designer or landscape architect. 

36. Plant a green wall 

Another trick that emphasizes the height rather than width of small backyards is planting a green wall or vertical garden. Choose fast-growing climber species such as jasmine, honeysuckle, and ivy.

If you aren't green-fingered or just want some guaranteed all-year-round greenery, build a green wall just with fake flowers.Faux plant wall panels from IKEA are a life-saver.

37. Maximize seating space with a garden corner sofa

There's no hard and fast rule on where to position your outdoor furniture in small yards, but generally speaking, it makes sense not to place any heavy, non-portable pieces centrally, because everyone will inevitably keep bumping into them. Instead, opt for a corner sofa and a compact coffee table. 

38. Blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors

Use continuous flooring to relax the boundaries between home and garden which is a really nifty small backyard idea. You can maximize this with accessible glazing, and replicating the same decorating scheme inside and out.

39. Enhance a small courtyard with elevated areas

Even the smallest courtyard can be made to look chic and inviting with clever use of materials, levels, and lighting. This Chelsea courtyard has been given a sleek makeover with multiple layers of light limestone paving. By Charlotte Rowe Design. 

40. Paint and plant walls and fences 

Just as you'd paint walls in a light color in a small room to make it feel bigger, doing so in a small yard will make it feel larger. Another small yard idea? Think 'up' and 'out' by mounting your container plants onto a fence or wall. The effect will be especially stunning if you choose trailing plants (trailing pelargoniums are especially appealing). 

41. Use limewash to create an airy and spacious look

Make your outdoor space feel bigger and brighter to get that charming cottage garden look – and make your tiny yard appear larger and lighter in the process – by liming exterior walls and furniture. This traditional preservation technique is coming back into favor in modern homes too for a chilled Scandi look if cottagey is not your vibe.

42. Keep your lawn pristine, even if it's tiny

Love your small yard lawn, no matter how tiny, as when kept neat and lush it will give your space a smart and spacious look. Mow it regularly with the best small lawnmower you can find for awesome results.

43. Paint small fences to add extra color

Want to transform your small yard in just a weekend? Painting fences in a bright, sunny color for summer can really improve your space. What's going to look nicer? A slightly faded, peeling wooden fence or a super stylish vivid color? You can always soften the look by adding a trellis and growing climbing plants over the top. And see this furniture, below? That was plain wooden and a little worn looking – but was given a new lease of life with a lick of paint. 

44. Add a cheeky hammock or two for chilled vibes

The rug and the hammock help make the small space feel more like an outdoor room than a backyard, which is a great option if you have a small backyard and are not sure how to make the most of it. You don't need to try to transform it into a green space, just see it almost like an extra room, with a few potted plants dotted about, too. Oh, and use paint to add some splashes of color. We can't resist a bit of pink, so naturally, we are in love with @emeraldterrace's backyard.

45. Create a display on exterior walls

From the cacti to the stunning imagery from the best outdoor projector no doubt, it makes a beautiful backdrop to keep a small space feeling vibrant.

Complete the look with good chairs –  we love these classics from Ikea, theVago chair and you're all set.

46. Go for modular furniture to suit your space

Modular furniture has always been a small space dweller's friend. What we like so much about the Solleron series is you can really create a shape of sofa that fits with your space. You can build up how many seats you want, add armrests, corner sections, pick colors and cushions to go on top – just a really versatile piece of patio furniture. 

47. Co-ordinate paving and hard landscaping

Alan also recommends: 'Choose paving and other hard landscaping that match or complement each other. This way, whatever else is going on in the garden, these will act as an anchor and provide a unifying theme.'

48. Create a focal point in a small backyard

'Focal points are spots that draw your eye when you gaze into the garden. All backyards, no matter how small, ought to contain at least one good focal point, and preferably several of varying intensity – but cram in too many and they will all lose their impact,' says Alan from one of our favorite reads, Alan Titchmarsh's Small Gardens

49. Create a tiny outdoor kitchen 

So when you have slaved away creating a lovely outdoor space, make sure you take time to enjoy it. And to us, enjoying an outdoor space means plenty of al fresco eating and drinking in an outdoor kitchen space. We love this option on wheels.

50. Add a summerhouse to a small garden

Summerhouses and outbuildings are not necessarily just for masses of acres of land – some are quite compact, as small as just five feet across. Set yours up to be a multifunctioning space and you'll add a ton of personality to a small yard.

51. Go monochrome to enhance a small space

And by monochrome we don't mean black or white; washing your entire small backyard in a deep, vibrant color will create a jewel-box effect that's very attractive, and it'll distract from the small size of your backyard. This small backyard idea is by Chaplins Furniture.

52. Don't be afraid to decorate a small outdoor table

Just because you have a tiny bistro set on your patio, doesn't mean you have to keep it clear at all times. In fact, we think that draping a small patio table with pretty linens and decorating it with fresh flowers will visually enhance your outdoor space by creating a focal point. 

53. Tiny space? Go big on accessories

It's a misconception that small outdoor spaces do best with smaller everything: actually, a couple of well-chosen large ornaments, planters, or lanterns tend to look much better than lots of small ones. The Galvanised Metal Lantern is by Lights4fun.

How do I make a small backyard look great? 

Joe Raboine, outdoor living expert and director of residential hardscapes at Belgard, has a top tip for small backyard owners: work out where you get the most sun and go from there. Raboine's advice is: 'look at every small space with some sun as an opportunity: porch, balcony, roof, landscape, windowsill, fence, mailbox, driveway, walkway, decks', and so on. Almost anything will look better in full sun, so make sure your backyard's most important feature is in the spot that gets the sun.

Lindsey Hyland, a gardening expert and founder of Urban Organic Yield, has further tips for small backyards:

• Add features such as a patio, deck, or pergola to provide some extra space and make the area more functional
• Install plants and trees to create a natural boundary and add some color and life to the area
• Use furniture and decorations that maximize the available space.

How do you landscape a small backyard?

There are many ways to landscape a small backyard, depending on how you plan on using it. According to Hyland, 'some people might prefer to have a patio or deck area for entertaining, while others might want to use the space for growing fruits and vegetables. You can also create a lawn area or install flower beds. Decide what you want to use the space for, and start planning! A good place to start is by measuring the space and drawing out a rough plan of what you would like it to look like.'

John Thomas, who owns Backyard Garden Geek, adds that 'Before you begin a backyard landscaping project, you'll need to pay close attention to three things: irrigation, water runoff, and sun location. Do you need to install a sprinkler system to keep your grass or plants alive? What happens to your backyard during heavy rains? What parts of your yard are in shade versus sun?'

Thomas admits that these are 'boring topics', but stresses that 'after you've answered these questions, you'll be prepared to make fun decisions about how you'll design your backyard and which materials you'll use. Just don't skip the boring
for the fun. If you do, you might end up making some costly mistakes.'

Finally, Joe Raboine has a quick checklist of further landscaping considerations that are a must in a small backyard:

• Walkway – Line your walkway with eye pleasing plants or edibles
• Fence – Hang garden boxes from your fence or vining plants
• A paver patio is also a great way to improve the appearance of a small backyard, as it can help cover areas where there may be little or no grass
• Vertical gardens are another great option and really come into their own in micro garden spaces where options are very limited
• Some vertical structures like arbors, arches, pergolas and gazebos help create the ambiance of an outdoor garden ‘room’ and can focus the eye on the mystery beyond
• Raised gardens and beds are great for growing veg and small plots of flowers

What not to do in a small backyard?

Hyland has a reassuring answer: 'Don't try to do too much. When you have a small backyard, the key is to use every square inch wisely.' In practice, this means 'choosing plants and landscaping that will make the most of the space and avoiding features like pools or large garden sheds that will take up valuable real estate. You can still have fun in your small backyard – just think carefully about what you include.'

Beautiful front yard landscaping will always make your house look more attractive to potential buyers. After all, it's the first impression they receive of your home. 

A neat lawn free of weeds will never go unnoticed, and, according to a gardening expert, two particular plants could just give your house the edge. When it comes to how to sell a house faster, incorporating crowd-pleasing plants is an easy win.

Chris Bonnett, a gardening expert at Gardening Express recommends hydrangeas for your front yard, and for the winter months, a Choisya ternata 'Sundance'.

Front yard plants that will help sell your home

'When selling your home, having beautiful gardens can really add to the look of a property and make them more desirable,' Chris comments. He believes a well-kept garden will be seen in a positive light because potential buyers won’t look at it and see yet another thing that needs work and money, along with a new roof and kitchen extension.

'If there’s a certain plant you should have in your gardens when selling your homes then I would recommend a hydrangea,' says Chris. 'The big, colorful, beautiful blooms are really eye-catching and can really make a home look inviting and classy.'

However, if you’re selling your home in the winter, he says you may want to go for evergreen shrubs, because hydrangeas don’t look their absolute best during the winter.

Chris Bonnett says an evergreen shrub such as Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is a good choice if you're putting your home on the market in the colder months.

As for which color to go for, calming blues, whites, lilac and pinks are best, according to Juliette Hohnen, a realtor at Douglas Elliman. She says that gorgeous landscaping contributes to an 'emotional "I must have it" reaction from buyers' before they have even stepped into the house.

'When you use reds and yellows your garden tends to look like a park in Brighton or garden at Buckingham Palace,' the realtor continues. 

It's well worth thinking about your garden design ideas when putting your home on the market, as well as simply keeping things looking neat. If spending time outdoors doing some garden therapy speeds up the emotionally fraught process of buying and selling, we think it's a no-brainer.

Urgently seeking some smart front yard landscaping ideas? Then, look no further. Whatever the size, aspect or shape of your plot, we’ve rounded up the freshest planting combos and sharpest hard landscaping options around. There are planting suggestions for different hardiness zones and the latest top green-fingered tips and trends from some of the leading landscape designers and industry experts, so you can realize your front yard’s true value and potential. 

Not just a matter of sprucing up paths, porches, pots and borders, planning the perfect front yard relies upon identifying how you want to use your space, assessing and taking into account any issues the site presents and marrying it with how you want it to look. It isn’t the easiest of tasks, we know, but it’s definitely one that’s worth taking time over and enjoy hunting out new ideas for. 

Front yard landscaping ideas that'll make your home pop

Deciding on the best entryways, weighing up parking needs and considering how important privacy screening is are all practical hard landscaping issues that need to be brought into the design early on, whether you are tackling the work yourself or calling in an expert. Finding the right plants for the right spot is also key, not just for shaping the overall look of your plot but in terms of how much time and attention your new-look front yard will need to keep it looking good. Add in other considerations such as exterior lighting, creating a cozy place to sit plus some statement window boxes and planters, there’s plenty to start dreaming about. So, check out these inspirational ideas and get planning today.

1. Unify entry walkways with planting

Fancy a front yard that looks smart year-round but still relaxed and inviting? Then take a low-maintenance front yard landscaping tip from this stunning design by Brinitzer and go for predominantly all-evergreen planting. With no hedging or fencing to divide it from the street, the view is uninterrupted leading straight up to the house, and its welcoming porch. 'We worked with the client of this 1920’s property in Arlington Virginia, a close-in suburb of Washington, D.C. to develop a property-wide garden design that would enhance the newly renovated bungalow,” says designer Scott Brinitzer. “The garden directly in front of the house features a limestone walkway passing through a zoysia grass lawn.  As the walk nears the sidewalk, it is bordered by gumdrops of Green Velvet boxwood and dwarf Japanese mondo grass. The simplicity of the front garden, a study in different greens and textures, provides the surrounding perennial with a clean and neat framework that helps the property look tidy no matter the season.'

2. Let your gate make a statement

More than just an entryway – the shape, size and style of your garden gate can make a huge statement about your property and design choices. Whether it’s a romantic waist-high picket design or a more commanding Japanese arch, these entry points set the tone for visitors and allow your real estate to really stand out from the crowd. Choose a design to echo your home’s architecture and front yard. 

This striking style of Japanese gate or mon traditionally marks the boundary between one world and another, the inner garden being a tranquil and serene space. Set within a dense hedge, the senses are heightened, and expectations raised as to the type and size of garden within, a very different experience to that presented by a more open, ornate wrought iron design or chic and contemporary timber arrangement.

3. Crisp lines and sculptural forms

A front yard that sits back within the real estate footprint to create an open courtyard is instantly inviting and deserves a landscape design that will withstand close scrutiny. With ground space limited, a direct pathway to the front door works best but be sure to plan in areas of planting and sensory features to maximize year-round interest and detailing. In this project by Arizona-based Creative Environments the impact comes from the bold simplicity of the water feature and delicate planting. 'Low plantings showcase the beautiful architecture of this home. 

Creative Environments wanted to bring the water element to feel with an 18' deep serenity area in the courtyard with a water feature for some sound. This is a zero-edge water feature that flows over on all sides.' The intimate seating and multi-layered lighting make this space a place to relax and linger.

4. Plant a climate-proof hedge

Love the idea of growing a hedge around your front yard, then be sure to choose a plant variety that will thrive before investing both money and time. With weather conditions and climates growing ever more changeable, it's crucial to find a hedging plant that will not only cope with the soil and aspect of your plot, and look good, but that will withstand a sudden dip in temperatures too. Oregon-based specialists Conifer Kingdom share these tips, 'Cold-hardy plantings that will grow well in Texas are a great way to go. Under the most severe winter conditions, they may experience some damage but can survive and thrive again next year when things finally thaw out! The large cities of Abilene, Austin, San Antonio, Beaumont & Corpus Christi fall within USDA Hardiness Zones 6 - 10 respectively. You can check out the hedges which can withstand the cold of a northern climate but are also able to grow well from the top of Texas down to zone 8, and some even to zone 9. They are excellent alternatives to the strictly southern plantings.'

5. Reclaim your front yard for entertaining

More than just a route from A to B, your front yard deserves to be a place to spend time and socialize. Adding a paved seating area covered with a striking sunshade will not only create a sheltered and cozy place to while away the hours with friends and neighbors but makes a stunning feature too. Choose from colonial timber slatted designs, possibly adorned with flowering climbers or to make a more contemporary statement go for a decorative fretwork design in metal. There's plenty of cool outdoor furniture to pick from.

This courtyard by Creative Environments features a fireplace, water feature, and a steel shade structure with water jetted panels added to the roof. The water installation, next to the front entrance, is a limestone feature that flows over on all sides to a beach pebble basin.

6. Choose front yard planting to accentuate your home's facade

Step back and take time to look at your real estate. How does it appear? What materials and architectural features stand out? How can they be best complemented by plants? Simple observations and noting the color and texture of the main construction can be a huge help when deciding on a planting design. As a rule – as shown beautifully in this project by landscape specialists Creative Environments - the simpler and plainer the façade, the smaller the leaf size and more intricate the plant shapes can be. For more textured and varied materials – such as stone or timber shingles or shakes – stick to shrubs and trees with larger leaves. The design team explain, 'Here low plantings showcase the architecture of the home with greenery and artificial turf. The design concept and installation are deliberately simplistic to bring out the home.' Extra height and drama was added by planting some of the ficus columns in pottery urns.

7. Try a period approach to front yard planting

Designing a front yard for a historic property blessed with tons of decorative detailing can seem daunting. Where many owners may be tempted to opt for simple paving and bold, statement planting, to help balance out the character overload it can be more effective to adopt a historically sympathetic approach. Richard Schipul, landscape designer at Designing Eden LLC explains the thinking behind this enchanting front yard in Ridgefield, CT. 'When I originally met with the owners of this property, they wanted to create a landscape that would honor the architecture of their beloved house. They had a lot of plant pictures saved from a recent trip and most were of gardens planted with brightly colored annuals. I explained what gardening would have been like in the Victorian era and that a lot of the plants in the pictures were used as bedding plants in gardens during that time. Keen to create a Victorian-styled landscape composed of only annuals, I had to dial back their excitement by explaining that a garden with only annuals was not sustainable, instead suggesting a longer-lasting mix of perennials, evergreens and flowering shrubs. We would leave approx. 30% of the garden beds open for annuals that we would swap out twice a year, in the late spring and again in the fall.'

8. Choose sympathetic hard landscaping

Driveway pavers provide unique elegance and durability to any home, making it a great option for driveway design. Every home’s architecture should be reflected in the type of stone used for your paved driveway. Whether your home is contemporary, traditional, Mediterranean, or any other style, it’s important to pick driveway pavers that will blend seamlessly with its design. 

Unlike cement driveways, which are limited in color options, using driveway pavers that have a variety of available hues allows homeowners to customize their driveway to complement its existing color scheme. This also allows for the creation of unique patterns and designs, which can add to the visual interest of your home. Whether you want a simple, uniform look or an intricate, eye-catching pattern, possibilities are endless with driveway paver designs.

9. Create a cozy approach to low level walls

There’s never enough real estate to do ALL your outdoor living in the backyard. That’s why it’s helpful to reclaim your front yard space by creating a patio courtyard. One of the most important elements in a courtyard is to use enclosing walls to give it a feeling of cozy privacy, especially when located in the front of the home. Contrasting coping stones are ideal for adding a stylish flourish to low walls as well as doubling as casual seating. Discreet LED lighting installed below the lip, will showcase the wall further, especially if built from a contrasting material with a rugged texture, and will also introduce an extra dimension to the space.  If stone walls aren’t in your budget, try low hedging or lines of dense planting to define your space and add structure.

10. Plan the perfect entryway

A beautiful front entry walk elicits an almost immediate emotional response – one you can enjoy using daily and welcoming guests into. To maximize usefulness and impact, the size of your entry walk matters. If you go too small, it’s more of a path while too wide means it may compete with your driveway. Ideally, you’ll want an entry walk that’s between six and eight feet wide so two people can walk side-by-side comfortably. Vertical elements such as pilasters or walls can enhance the entry walk look while better connecting it to your home’s architectural style. These can also be graceful tools to accommodate grade changes in your yard’s terrain.

11. Use broken lines to bring another dimension to your front yard

Placing a geometric garden landscaping design on an angle will instantly add energy and interest. Adding in broken low walls interspersed with planting, plus contrasting hard materials and the result is truly special. Principal at Ginkgo Leaf Studio, James M. Drzewiecki, explains, 'This modern interpretation of a craftsman-styled home in Milwaukee was the inspiration for the eclectic and contemporary landscape design. Low garden walls which match the stone veneer on the home were incorporated for a sense of enclosure and add a bold architectural element to define the front yard from the street. At the end of the front walk we added a bluestone foyer that matches the stone on the home’s front porch and creates a more welcoming entry point from the drive. The area to the left of the front walk acts as a rain garden for run off from the home’s roof and provides a happy home for a group of river birch. A restrained palette of perennials and ornamental grasses combined with native shrub and tree species adds refinement and seclusion to the balance of the property.'

12. Vary your front yard paving

Front yard character doesn’t always have to come from planting alone, sometimes clever paving choices can make a striking focal point and bring an extra dimension to the space. Contrasting textures, colors and scale of stone all add personality and are the perfect way to introduce abstract shapes and forms while still proving practical. 

The Prairie architecture of this home led the owners to ask Gingko Leaf Studio for an updated landscape that combined an Asian garden feel with a Mid-Century aesthetic. James M. Drzewiecki, explains, 'We designed a new front walk in a combination of concrete and bluestone. The square of irregular bluestone was placed on axis with the front door while also sitting on the diagonal with the Prairie-style urn. A concrete patio was added off the front porch for informal seating. Bluestone steppers were placed along the edge of the driveway within slate chip mulch, to enhance accessibility along the driveway edge. A simplified palette of flowering perennials, grasses and shrubs fill the planting beds surrounding the new walk and patio.'

13. Divide up your front yard with freestanding panels

Concerned with curbside privacy or just want to create more usable outside space then take a tip from landscape designer Matthew Giampietro and divide up your plot. 'We incorporated free-standing wooden fence features that helped define and separate the front yard of this newly renovated home in South Florida into a series of outdoor rooms. Modern in style, these rich wooden fences are made from IPE, a Brazilian hardwood that is naturally resistant to rot, weather and insects and is twice as dense as other hardwoods.' Slatted in design, with narrow spacing between battens, they crucially let air and light flow through, promoting healthy plant growth as well as providing tantalizing glances of the space beyond.

14. Focus on planting rich warm hues

'A lush tropical foliage garden design is a great contrast to a modern style architecture,' says landscape designer Matthew Giampietro. 'We were asked to create a modern tropical landscape design in the front yard of this newly renovated home in South Florida. There was an existing mature ficus tree that provided shade to a large part of the front yard and the new home renovation was a modern style, white in color. Our goal was to create a front yard garden that can also be used for outdoor seating as well as recreation for the children. We created a modern layout for the walkways leading to the front entrance and used lush tropical plantings help define and enclose spaces in the front yard. Shade-loving plants were needed and, fortunately, there are many tropical varieties to choose from. Foliage plants come in a range of colors, shapes and sizes while unique shade-loving flowers, like red ginger, the heliconia flower or bromeliads offer a unique structure and a variety of colors.'

15. Use a plant palette that complements your home

Fancy a front yard design that sits in perfect harmony with your home? Well take a close look at the colors used on the front façade and repeat them carefully within your planting and hard landscaping. The result is a truly cohesive and peaceful look that will be the envy of all who pass by. This approach was expertly undertaken by landscape designer Stephanie D Poole. 'The design was based on drought-tolerant plants, but also colors that complement each other and pick up on the colors of the house.  Blue-greens (senecio, Elijah blue fescue, canyon prince, dymondia), butter yellows (yarrow, lantana, lady banksia climbing rose, bougainvillea), and vibrant oranges (kangaroo paw, red hot poker, aloe striata, aloe arborescens, African tulip tree) are punctuated with dark browns phormium Jack Spratt, aeonium, Japanese maple tree) and brought together with calming greens (foxtail agave, deer grass, moor grass, feather grass, and palm trees). The movement in the grasses scale, textures, and colors was deliberate.' The planting is gently contained by a natural sandstone low wall which also provides a place for neighbors to sit and chat while out on their dog walks. 

16. Let your plants do the talking

Long for a plant-filled front yard that looks good all-year round then follow Susan Fischer’s advice and go for a careful balance of small shrubs and perennials. 'We kept a smattering of evergreens for winter, but added perennials with colorful foliage, to ensure color all year, even when nothing is in bloom.' Repeating the same plants on both sides of the central entry walk results in a beautifully harmonious approach while opting for looser, natural shapes 'require less maintenance.'

What should I plant in front of my house? 

Low maintenance plants that make an impact, year-round, are definitely the way to go when planning a front yard planting scheme. Shrubs and perennials tend to need minimal care, and watering once established, and put on a reliable show for little effort. Selecting varieties that thrive in your climate zone is key, but bear in mind that your home’s specific location can also play a part, with air and ground temperatures of low-lying homes regularly dropping below the average for the zone, while those homes perched on top of a hill can be several above. Good all-rounders to consider include:

• Stonecrop – Perfect dome-shaped plant that needs little love. Growing 10-12 inches high it’s covered with tiny pink blooms in late summer, adored by pollinators. Hardy in zones 3-9.
• Globe Arborvitae – A low-growing, sphere-shaped evergreen that’s pretty tough and perfect lining pathways or planted at the front of borders. Hardy in zones 3-7.
• Catmint – A true sun lover that bursts into frothy clouds of blue in late Spring. Happy in poor soil, simply cut back the first flush of flowers for a second show. Height varies from 12 to 20 inches depending on variety. Zones 3-8.
• Panicle Hydrangea – A great contender for growing up against walls or on the corners of significant borders, these shrubs love well-drained soil in part or full sun. With pompoms of lacy pastel-colored blooms, they suit both formal and loose planting styles. Zones 3-8.
• Red Bottlebrush – This small-leafed evergreen grows to heights of 2 to 3 feet and is smothered in dazzling red flowers in later summer and fall. Drought and salt air tolerant, it will thrive in zones 8-10.

How do I design my front yard? 

Want to up your home’s curb appeal, these simple front yard landscaping ideas are just the ticket.

• Frame your doorway with a pair of statement planters. Colorful annuals will add a dash of seasonal color while a stately pair of small standard trees – try Ornamental Crabapple or Sweet Bay – will add year-round style.
• Edging borders with pavers, pebbles or treating turf to a good, sharp cut with a yard edger will work wonders for smartening up the look of your front yard.
• Short on space, make the most of it with a babbling water feature for extra sensory charm and movement.
• Lighting always adds an extra dimension to planting. Experiment with simple low voltage LED spots, uplighters and path lights for varying effects of outdoor lighting. 
• Add year-round structure and interest with reliable evergreens such as Boxwood, Azaleas, Euonymus, Yew and Daphne.

If you're looking for front yard landscaping ideas without plants, don't be discouraged. Although many people see shrubs and a neatly mowed lawn as integral elements of a front yard, it's perfectly possible to have a beautiful front of house, sans plants. Whether you have a tricky north-facing location, or simply don't want to look after plants, there are plenty of alternatives. 

These are some of the best front yard landscaping ideas that are suitable for small or large homes, but that most importantly won't require any maintenance... Follow this expert advice to make the no-plants look work for you.  

Front yard landscaping without plants: first considerations

If you're not keen on plants in your front yard but are worried that there just aren't any garden landscaping ideas that don't involve greenery and look good, you need the reassurance of a landscaping professional. Lyle Mosca from Imperial Landscape and Masonry, advises that although 'when considering the design of your front yard, many people will create nicely edged garden beds, adding shrubs, flowers, and other colorful accents', you actually have 'a number of options that can work either in complement or instead of traditional greenery.'

Low-maintenance front garden landscaping options that also 'add a ton of
character to their yard' include 'hardscaping, water features, and other
decorative pieces. No matter what your style, you will find something that
will suit your needs.'

Basically, if you don't want many – or any – plants in your front yard, you'll want to acquaint yourself with the many hard landscaping materials out there, from stone to concrete paving and gravel. 

Daniel McCurry, landscaping professional from Father Nature Landscapes, also reminds garden owners that the goal of outdoor livings space is 'bringing people together', which should guide your choice of central accents in your front yard. McCurry recommends focusing on 'patio ideas, fireplaces, kitchens, fountains, lighting, and sound.' If you want a bit of decoration, you can consider 'concrete sculptures, limestone urns, benches and statuaries, stone pieces, or simply boulders!' McCurry has one top tip for designing a front yard without plants, however: 'have fun with your garden space, but attempt to keep one piece per viewable area; having too many in one view will de-value the piece that you are attempting to display.'

What can you put on landscaping besides plants?

Mosca seconds the view that tastefully chosen centerpieces can make a big difference to a front yard: 'Adding in an art installation as an eye-catching centerpiece can become the focal point of your front yard, allowing you to build out from around that. To complement the art installation, using unique textures to your yard like wood and rock features will help to create depth and character.'

An alternative to an art installation or sculpture is exploring water feature ideas. While Mosca appreciates that 'many prefer to have their water features in the backyard where they can enjoy the ambient sound of falling or rushing water', it's also true that 'these types of features can fit perfectly in the front yard. Think about adding a small stream to complement eye-catching interlock, retaining or feature walls, and other masonry features.' 

Finally, if you want no plants at all, and don't necessarily want a water feature either, you should explore rock garden ideas. Mosca points out that 'the use of rocks and other stone features can also help to create unique design elements in your landscaping.' Using rocks also removes 'the burden of weeding and maintenance. With the right design and planning, rock features combined with interlocking can often replace the need for grass entirely!'

What can I put in front of house instead of shrubs?

The idea that you absolutely must have shrubs in your front yard is a myth. McCurry explains that 'the goal of plantings in front of the house is to accentuate the architecture, not cover it.' That means that 'sometimes, you could have a front foundation that hardly has any plant material, but still accents the architecture!' Consider 'containers, well-placed bed-lines, architectural turf layout, entry terraces or even allowing your motor court to go all the way up to the house is a possibility.'

The main challenge with going for a no-plant front yard landscaping is that it can look quite harsh, even if you prefer a minimalist modern exterior. McCurry's top tip is to have a 'low-plant design' that allows for a balance of 'hardscape to the greenery in general. If you allow your motor court to go all the way to the house, consider well-placed containers with larger evergreens to soften the hardscape on hardscape (greenhouse) effect.'

Garden fence ideas also can come in very useful where it comes to softening a no-plant front yard scheme. Jeff Becka, of Fence Resource, praises fences as invaluable focal points for front yards, 'providing instant curb appeal. 'Many people think of fencing as a means to contain a pet or for providing security and privacy. However, fences are perfect for landscaping. Lower height picket fences with scallops or arches are perfect along sidewalks and walkways. They also provide a platform for mounting hanging baskets.' 

Also, if you've always wanted the traditional white picket fence, 'here's your chance' – it will 'improve the look and feel of your property and landscape.'

How can I make my front yard look better without grass?

Lawn grass isn't always necessary in a front yard, especially if the surrounding landscape already has some green interest to it – and there are lots of alternatives to grass. McCurry recommends imagining 'your home was set into the woods naturally without bulldozing all of the native trees and fauna.' If there are no surrounding trees, he advises looking 'into your local native plant pallet' for a green accent or two 'if a no-lawn idea is your goal.'

In other words, you can have a good-looking front yard without grass, but if you have no plants at all and no grass, you may find that the space looks a little barren. It is advisable to have at least one tree, or a large container, to compensate for the lack of a lawn. Trees generally are much less hard work than flower beds or lawns, so once yours is established, you'll find you'll hardly need to do any maintenance. 

These small front landscaping ideas that are low maintenance deliver on curb appeal without requiring you to constantly weed, prune, or even water your front yard. Whether you are frequently away and don't want to come back to a dead outdoor space, or just want something that looks good without you having to do much to it, these looks are for you. 

These front yard landscaping ideas are specifically for smaller outdoor spaces. You don't need acres or a massive lawn to pack in a punch with some clever planting and hardscaping, as these beautifully-designed front yards prove.

Small front yard landscaping: a word on what landscaping includes

If you are considering your small front yard landscaping options having tackled your small backyard landscaping project and think 'landscaping' and 'low-maintenance' are incompatible, have no fear: they are, much like when landscaping a backyard. Landscaping doesn't just mean labor-intensive hardscaping projects. Technically, landscaping includes plants, lawns, and pathways. In fact, it's perfectly possible to have a well-landscaped front yard with hardly any hardscaping at all. 

Small front yard landscaping ideas that are low maintenance

Plant-based front yard designs are not necessarily higher-maintenance than no-plant schemes, either. It's all about choosing the right type of planting for your climate – and the amount of work you're prepared to put into maintaining your front yard.

1. Go for a stepped design with grasses for a contemporary look

Ornamental grasses are the low-maintenance gardener's best friend. They are easy and fast to grow, look bushy and sumptuous even in the smallest of spaces, and they just have that modern, clean look that's popular at the moment. Pair them with whispy, tall plants like the African lily for a delicate and contemporary look. 

This impeccable small front yard was designed by Shades of Green Landscape Architecture. The grasses soften the contemporary concrete hardscaping, and we also really like the fact that the steps have built-in lighting for added drama in the evening.

2. Use symmetry to create a classic, timeless look

Symmetrical front yard landscaping will never go out of fashion, and it works particularly well for smaller front yards because it visually expands the space by creating a vista. Take inspiration from this beautiful front yard designed by Matthew Cunningham Landscape Design. A formal symmetrical layout is cleverly combined with relaxed, textured planting and a gravel path. It is both low-maintenance and smart-looking.  

Sticking to a simple color scheme with your planting will enhance symmetrical landscaping. Try all-white flowers for a crisp, formal look. 

3. Be inspired by mediterranean gardens 

Mediterranean gardens are enjoying a huge revival, and the Mediterranean landscaping style can do wonders for smaller front yards. 

This stunning Californian front yard by AMS Landscape Design takes its cues from traditional Italian garden designs that use oversized terracotta pots for growing citrus trees. If your space is even smaller than this one, use just two pots on either side of your front door and pair them with terracotta tile for an authentic Mediterranean/Spanifornian landscaped look. 

This is very low-maintenance scheme – the tile will last many years and doesn't require any specialist cleaning or resealing, and citrus trees are easy to grow, so long as you have a mild to warm climate and give them big pots.

4. Landscape with succulents

Succulents are the perfect low-maintenance plants for small front yards. They provide lots of sculptural texture and look great in a front yard bed, or in a container. Group succulents of varying heights, shapes, and colors right outside your home for the biggest impact. 

Succulents also play very well with concrete hardscaping, stone urns, and water features. Plant them in shallow concrete troughs right outside your front door for a sleek, contemporary effect. For even more drama, you can learn how to make a living wall out of succulents and transform your home exterior into a living art installation. 

5. A small front yard doesn't have to mean small plants

There is no rule that makes large, bold plants inappropriate for small front yards. In fact, the opposite is true: lots of small, low-growing plants will make your small front garden even smaller. Many small containers are also a high-maintenance option – you'll have to water them all the time. 

So, even if your front yard is really tiny, just go for it, taking inspiration from this glorious tropical front garden. Tall, spiky palm trees look especially appealing against the neatly trimmed lawn. Palms can also be grown in large containers, if that's your preference.

6. Add herbaceous borders to a small enclosed front yard

If you like the classic look with garden borders, then you should definitely add a few herbaceous perennials like lavender and rosemary. These drought-tolerant plants always create a beautiful contrast to grass and paths or driveways, making the overall landscaping softer. 

Lavender also looks good with almost any type of hardscaping in your yard, from bold concrete to traditional garden edging. 

7. Use garden edging to zone your front yard

If you want to use most of the limited space available to you as a lawn, you can still get in some fun landscaping with plants if you create small zones dedicated to planting. Yard edging will help here: once it is in, it will require no maintenance and help keep your lawn nicely shaped and give your front yard great curves. 

Small front yards will benefit from invisible steel edging because too much brick or stone can look too bulky. 

8. Landscape with traditional cottage garden plants

English cottage gardens tend to be on the smaller side, so cottage garden-style planting schemes are very easy to implement in small front yards. Go easy on the hard landscaping if you're going for this look – instead, lay a gravel path and let cottage garden plants, such as rose, lavender, and hedging, do the rest.  

Sculpted shrubs like box, juniper, or thuja will give your front yard a manicured look, but they're not really high-maintenance. An annual trim is the most these easy-going evergreens will need. 

9. Create a low-maintenance Japanese-inspired front yard

Japanese-inspired garden designs are perfect for small and simple front yards. The combination of gravel and slow-growing species of cedar and maple, grasses and moss, is very low-maintenance but looks amazing. These schemes don't require much space at all and can be achieved in even the tiniest front yards. Japanese plants also tend to require almost no pruning – less work for you. No room at all? You could just have a Japanese acer in a pot outside your front door – they are container-tolerant for many years.

Don't worry about raking the gravel, either – that's only required for Zen-style gardens that use very fine gravel and is entirely optional. You can use ordinary, gray gravel to create the same effect; no raking required. 

10. Use pavers to create a neat, low-maintenance look

Paving ideas are not just for backyards – if you want a more formal, smarter look, then paved landscaping is the way. Especially if your front yard borders a communal lawn, as in this example by Creative Design Maintenance, stone pavers will help create a neat border for your front yard. Pavers are also really easy to clean and require virtually no maintenance apart from an annual clean with the best patio cleaner. 

11. Use a single tree to create a statement

You don't need tons of plants to create interest in a small front yard. Often, a carefully positioned single tree is enough. The best small garden trees include Japanese acers and dwarf cherry trees, but any unusual-looking tree will make a statement, especially if it's accented with concrete landscaping or an oversized planter.

Another great option for small front yards is a full-sized garden tree. Provided you choose a species that doesn't require a huge plot of land to grow in, you can create a beautiful landscaped look with just the canopy of your tree. Consider an acacia or magnolia – both perfect trees for smaller outdoor spaces.

What can I do with a small front yard?

A small front yard doesn't have to be a limitation for your landscaping ambitions. However, Zachary Smith, Founder of San Francisco Bay Area landscaping company
Zachary Smith Arboriculture, advises to start with small ideas and build up, explaining that in his experience, 'people tend to try to do too much, and with smaller spaces, simpler can be better.' He recommends starting with 'decorative gravel and interesting succulents. When some fancy agaves and cactus-like plants are installed in a bed of unique gravel or stones, it can be a surprisingly impressive look, with very very low maintenance requirements.' 

Another option is 'to use a ground cover cotoneaster, or creeping juniper ground cover around several large and unique boulders.' Rocks, obviously, don't require any maintenance whatsoever but look great in most front yards, helping you create a look that's completely individual.

How do I landscape a small front yard so that it's low maintenance?

Smith has a very important top tip for keeping small front yards low maintenance: 'It's most important to remember that simpler is better, and the lower maintenance requires less foot traffic in the landscape which will reduce compaction and wear and tear on small plants.' 

Basically, this means that a low-maintenance landscape design will have a hardwearing walkway and plants either on the sides or on a dedicated plot that isn't walked on. You also may choose to reconsider that lawn – lawns just aren't low-maintenance, ever, so you may choose to replace yours with extra plants or a rockery. 

Well-mulched borders or xeriscaped front yards are also extremely low maintenance. Xeriscaping is specifically aimed at making your front yard drought-tolerant, by choosing plants that don't require much watering and surrounding them with gravel for added water retention. You don't have to live in an arid climate to enjoy this type of landscaping, either, and it looks very good with both traditional and contemporary home exteriors. 

These budget front yard landscaping ideas will convince you that top-notch curb appeal doesn't have to cost top dollar. You don't have to go for one of those super-expensive concrete-and-water-feature designs in order to achieve a beautiful front-of-house look. Instead, take inspiration from pocket-friendly ideas that will save you money, without compensating on style, by making use of simple, traditional materials, clever planting, and a few well-chosen accessories. 

It might come as a surprise that your front yard landscaping can still act as an introduction to your backyard, without costing you thousands. Better still, most of these looks can be developed over time so you can use them as starting points for fancier front yard designs along your journey towards completing a longer-term front yard landscaping project. The choice is always yours.

Budget front yard landscaping ideas

If you have a tight budget to work with, you can still make your front yard look great. Paige Anderson, a landscape architect at Nitido Design, reassures homeowners that 'when it comes to landscaping your front yard, you don't have to settle for second best. Even if you have a little space and a limited budget, there are many methods to create a magnificent show.'

Anderson advises focusing on tried-and-tested methods to enhance your curb appeal – simple walkways, trees, and clever lighting will go a long way to enhancing your front yard. And don't forget bedding plants – yes, they're part of landscaping too, and often don't cost very much at all.

1. Ditch the lawn

Lawns are not a cheap backyard or front yard option, particularly if you live in a warmer climate. They require constant irrigation, so you'll need to pay for an irrigation system of some kind, and constant maintenance during the summer months, which will require you to buy and store a lawnmower. Turf also needs regular reseeding. 

So, ditch the grass and be inspired by this lawn-free front yard by Urban Oasis Landscape Design. Low-maintenance, inexpensive plants like aloe and ornamental grasses will provide plenty of interest in a grassless front yard. You only need several larger plants to create an attractive, textured ground cover.

2. Build a stepping stone pathway

Stepping stone walkways are one of the most budget-friendly additions to a front yard, and they require very little additional spending beyond the stones or slabs you'll be using. The best part of this budget front yard landscaping idea is that it can be achieved on a DIY basis. Anderson explains that 'stepping stones can be installed in a number of methods, including digging holes and filling them with cement or buying them separately from a landscaping supply store.'

Richard Fung, Owner of the homebuilding company Forever Homes, praises stepping stone walkways as a 'classic' idea that 'comes at a cheap cost' of 'around $10 to $30 per stone in the current market.'  However, Fung cautions complete beginners hoping to install a path, because a stepping stone walkway 'requires quite a good labor and time for the installation process. Choosing from a variety of stones depending on the design of your front yard, digging the holes and filling needs a good extent of experience and confidence to DIY yourself.'

3. Plant a tree

A tree is a beautiful budget-friendly solution for any front yard. Anderson particularly recommends this idea for a small front yard where 'a single tree makes a terrific focal point.' You can, of course, invest in a mature tree specimen for instant curb appeal, but you will 'save money by buying a seedling rather than an older tree.' 

The cost of a tree with planting labor will vary widely depending on the species you'd like to plant in your front yard, but expect to pay $1,000 upwards. A young tree, on the other hand, will not cost you much more than $100 (around $200 if it's a rarer type). 

4. Consider xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is the budget front yard landscaping idea we expect to see more of everywhere in the coming years. It's already becoming popular beyond the hot and arid climate it originates from, not least because of the low cost of this simple form of landscaping. 

Xeriscaping refers to making a landscape more drought-tolerant and typically involves planting drought-tolerant plants in beds covered with gravel for better moisture retention. Xeriscaped gardens also just look really cool and suit modern homes beautifully. Because they have a minimalist look, you can get away with just a few plants, which also saves you money.

5. Landscape with large rocks

Big rocks are your friends if you're looking for front yard landscape ideas on a budget. A few artfully positioned rocks in a front yard bed can go a long way toward creating a modern, bespoke look. If you live in a mountainous area, you can easily find rocks for free, but you can also buy them from a landscaping retailer or even your local garden center. 

Tiered and sculpted looks and rockeries won't require much DIY expertise, but they will require some patience as you'll have to dig in properly to make sure they stay in place.

6. Lay a gravel path

Gravel is a traditional, inexpensive material that can be used in so many different ways in a front yard. Learn how to lay a gravel path for a soft-looking front yard path that will be much, much cheaper than stone. Or fill your front yard beds with gravel for a minimalist look. The best thing about gravel is that it can be used easily on a DIY basis with no additional labor costs. Even if you're a complete beginner, working with gravel is very easy, and the design payoff is worth it.

7. Go for the traditional white picket fence

The white picket fence is as traditional a front yard idea as they come, one of those garden fence ideas that never go out of fashion. The suburban dream personified, it's also remarkably budget-friendly. A picket fence can be installed for as little as $500, although expect to pay somewhere in the region of $1,500 for a really nice one for a larger front yard perimeter. 

Because a white picket fence is so distinctive and cheerful-looking, you won't need much more landscaping – a lawn and some traditional plants like roses complement it best.

8. Consider a birdbath

Anderson highly praises a birdbath as 'distinctive, attractive, and adorable' and names it as one of his 'favorite DIY landscaping ideas for front yards.' Birdbaths 'when appropriately placed, complement front yard landscaping while providing a safe haven for local birds to relax, swim around, bathe, and satisfy their thirst.' 

Why not create a wildlife garden in your front yard? A stone-effect birdbath from Amazon will only cost around $100-200 but will look incredible.

9. Add drama with lighting

Back yard lighting ideas go a long way in a front yard, and as Anderson points out, 'today, there are countless solar-powered lighting solutions for your front yard, allowing you to add mood lighting without spending a dollar on an electrician.' Solar-powered stake lights are very cheap and easy to install by simply sticking them in alongside your front yard path. 

If you're feeling more adventurous and have a bigger budget to play with, especially if you are building a front yard from scratch, you can start looking at spotlights built into the hardscaping of your front yard for really beautiful illumination at night. 

10. Take advantage of garden edging

The cheapest garden edging ideas are also among the most effective for landscaping a front yard on a budget. Steel edging will only cost you a few dollars, is very easy to install, and will last years. It's perfect for creating desirable curved front yard beds and for keeping your lawn neat and in place.

What is the cheapest form of front yard landscaping?

Choosing front yard landscaping ideas on a budget will often mean focusing on just one or two key features. Scale down your ambition to really make the most of what budget you do have available. Richard Fung especially recommends planting a single tree in your front yard if budget is an issue. According to Fung, 'no other front yard landscaping could be as cheap as planting a young and fresh tree. Buying a sapling instead of an older tree will save you around at least $200 to $3,000 or even more.' 

Obviously, you'll have to wait for the tree to mature for the best look, but the wait will be well worth it. As Fung points out, not only does a front yard tree look amazing, it 'will be able to save at least 30 percent of the heating and cooling costs of your home.' Trees also add value to your home if you decide to sell years down the line. A mature tree can add as much as $7,000 – that is a massive return on the initial investment of under $200. 

How can I make my front yard look more expensive than it actually is?

If you are the proud owner of a front yard lawn, that's your opportunity to make your yard look more expensive, right there.  Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love, recommends focusing on upkeep: 'make sure that you mow your lawn regularly and prune your plants because a clean and sharp lawn will always look more expensive.'

A bonus tip from Yamaguchi is to plant perennials along the perimeter of your lawn – not only do perennial plants look elegant and expensive but 'they last much
longer than other plants which means that you don’t have to buy new ones
every year.'

If you have a slightly bigger budget, Richard Fung recommends looking at outdoor lighting to make your front yard look more expensive. He advises that fluorescent lights cost around $80-$220, wall-mounted lights $70-$200. Aesthetically pleasing lighting 'will make your front yard look more expensive than it really is. If you are looking to light up the whole front yard with the help of a professional team, you can install lighting for around $1,000-$4,000.'

Lighting adds depth and contrast to any existing front yard landscaping and is a very useful tool for updating your front yard on a budget. 

A DIY fan and her husband have totally transformed their backyard into a calm and sociable area. The pair, who have a young baby, redesigned the area to make it really work for them. The result is a stylish, multi-functional backyard, with plenty of the best garden furniture, to unwind in.

• See also: Outdoor living spaces – 20 ways to create a cool and cozy outdoor living room this year

With plenty of seating, an outdoor rug and a parasol, they've effectively gained a whole new room in their home.

Before – the original backyard living space

Lori Beach had always wanted a low-maintenance garden and a safe space for their baby to play in. Having renovated the inside of the house and the front garden, they felt it only made sense to do the back garden, too.

'The previous garden did not make full use of the small space we had, so I had to re-design the entire garden,' says Lori. 'This meant removing everything to start with a blank canvas.

'We have always had a vegetable patch, so we knew that would be included in the new design.' As a way to make the garden feel like a true extension of the home, Lori used gray shades to complement the inside of her house. She also decorated the sitting area with ochre to bring in a splash of color.

After – the new backyard living space

'We decided to build our garden furniture from pallets as we wanted to minimize the costs,' Lori tells us. 'The whole project took five weeks as the weather was not good for the first couple of weeks.' 

Lori and her husband bought most of the materials from hardware store B&Q and the total cost of the entire garden was $5,290/£3,800.

The end result maximizes the space, with lots of practical but stylish backyard ideas. There are distinct zones, a large open area for kids to play in, and plenty of storage for keeping soft furnishings safe when it rains. 

They've made a really convivial space in the main seating area, with comfy outdoor sofas, a coffee table, and an outdoor rug from Amazon. The addition of plenty of blankets and cushions makes it feel like a very inviting spot to while away an evening.

The separate dining table at the opposite corner of the garden also means they can make the most of the sunlight throughout the day. Plus, the paved area at the bottom of the garden looks like a great place to put a barbecue.

• See also: 30 patio ideas – how to design and style a big or small patio

Find out more about how to link your indoor and outdoor rooms in our guide, which has lots of smart suggestions.

'It has been a tough journey as we had a lot of dust and mud sometimes making its way back into the house,' Lori recalls. 'It was like living in a building site, with a bag of cement in the kitchen and power tools everywhere.'

But it was well worth it, as the pair now have a lovely space to relax in after a long day’s work. 'My husband and I work on IT and we work full time, so after the stress of work we can escape to our sanctuary.'

Feeling inspired but limited with a small space? Hotfoot it to our small backyard ideas roundup for ways to upgrade your space. Also, check out our guide to the best garden parasols to create a shady spot in your garden like this DIY couple.

The right garden paving ideas can transform an outdoor space, whether you live in an urban setting, a suburb or a country village. And if you're redesigning your outdoor space from scratch, paving a new patio will likely be right at the top of your to-do list. 

Here we offer expert advice on ideas on what to consider and where to start with this garden landscaping project. Use our step-by-step guide to help bring your patio design to life, taking other key considerations such as the position, style and cost (of course) of your new paved space into account too.

• Check out our patio ideas for more inspiration.

1. Decide on a space to pave

Firstly, assess where you want to pave your backyard at garden design stage. A patio or other paved area needs to be easily accessible and weatherproof to ensure you gain maximum benefit and usage.

You are more likely to enjoy your space if you are not overlooked, too, so choose a private area or at least one where you can bump up the privacy with the right garden screening ideas. Using trellis and plants is a great way to create privacy around your new paved area and to introduce more greenery to your garden too.

• See all our trellis ideas in our edit.

2. Create access with pathways

If your favorite spot is halfway across the lawn, look into practical laying a gravel path or stone walkway like a herringbone path for easy access.

Consider the shape and size of the area you will be paving. It will affect the size of paving slab you use, the amount of materials you need, your budget, and most importantly the look of your garden. Draw a simple plan of your house and garden and shade in the area you would like to pave.

When deciding, be considerate of your neighbors too. Don’t block their light, and ensure your drainage is adequate, otherwise water may overspill into their garden, and you may be liable for flood damage.

• See all our garden path ideas in our edit.

3. Put your garden paving's purpose first

Figuring out the exact purpose for paving an area of your backyard in the first place is key to ensuring that all the details are right, including your patio's dimensions right. Some things to consider are:

• Will your paved area create a seamless transition between the house and backyard? 
• Do you want a patio to be in a sunny spot or can it be shaded, too?
• Do I want more paving than grass or more grass than paving?
• Is there room for planting to soften the patio's edges?
• Is the paved area large enough to house garden furniture?
• Will it house an outdoor kitchen?
• Is the paved space going to be used by kids? Is it large enough for their needs?

• Be inspired by our outdoor kitchen ideas.

4. Experiment with a rough patio layout

Once you've established the ideal position and size of your paved area, lay out lengths of string in your backyard to work out how the dimensions will actually suit your outdoor space. This will also help you better visualize how your backyard will look and feel as a whole once the paving is complete.

• Use our guide to choose the best patio paving for your backyard space.

5. Think about how big your paving slabs should be

Now you can decide what sized paving slabs will best suit your project. Using smaller slabs can help make a patio look larger, however, over a larger area, bigger slabs will be more cost effective. By contrast, smaller slabs will give a more traditional effect, perfect for cottage gardens, for example, while larger slabs can look more contemporary.

'Changing the direction of the paving, introducing other surface materials or simply using different sizes of the same material – small porphyry cobble setts next to porphyry pavers, for example – can help to mark out one area with a particular function from another,' says Matt James, garden designer and horticulturalist.

• For more garden ideas and expert advice for all types of garden, be sure to check out our hub.

6. Consider non-slip paving alternatives 

If your patio space is going to be used by children or elderly people, you might want to choose a non-slip paving stone material. In some cases, where water might collect and potentially cause damage to furniture or property, you might want to consider gravel or decking, rather than paving.

• See all our decking ideas for alternatives.

7. Settle on modern or traditional

There are typically two main backyard paving styles to choose from: Modern or traditional. To create a chic, contemporary look, choosing pavers made from materials like polished sandstone, porcelain or low chamfer blocks. For a more traditional feel, riven sandstone flags or tumbled block paving are ideal. 

Whichever finish you decide on, you should always make sure it complements the style of your home, especially if you are planning to link your indoor and outdoor spaces.

• And, of course, whichever style you go for you'll want to keep it at its best. Find a suitable options for your paving in out guide to the best patio cleaners.

8. Match backyard paving with your home

As we just said, any landscaping or external structures and outbuildings should always try to reflect the style of your property and blend into your backyard. You can achieve this by matching your patio area with the outside of your home and continuing your indoor color theme outside, creating an outdoor living space.

If your house has a lot of red brick or clay tiles, then a similar coloured sandstone or block paving will work well while light-colored, modern rendering works well with the silver grey spectrum of granite or natural stone flags. Either way, always look at samples to ensure that the materials you choose will complement existing architecture.

• See our complete guide to outbuildings.

9. Think about all the details

Paving and faced brickwork joints should be the same width and run perpendicular, depending on the pattern, and pointing color should never clash.

If your paving is being laid alongside decking, ensure attention is given to decking fixings, too, using specialist screws. For hardwood and cedar decks, stainless steel or brass colored screws are best. Never use nails — you can’t lift the boards easily without damaging the edges. As with paving, consistent spacing is essential.

• Find out how to install decking if you're planing on doing it yourself. 

10. Blur the boundaries between indoors and out

Using the same surface material and wall colors both outside and in helps to blur boundaries between the house and garden, making both spaces feel bigger. But few materials can be used for both floor surfaces. A textured finish is important for grip, so another material of a similar size or color, or a weatherproof version, is necessary. 

Western red cedar or hardwoods such as oak, iroko and balau will extend wood flooring outdoors, especially if the planks are laid the same way, but wood-effect materials will work brilliantly, too. Plastic composite decking is an option, or paving — try CED Natural Stone.

Creating a seamless transition isn’t as simple as raising an exterior surface to the level of the internal floor height, as it could compromise the damp-proof course (DPC). With new extensions, a high DPC can be added, or, with existing buildings, interceptor or tidy slot drains installed on the threshold. Patios and terraces should slope gently away from the house so water doesn’t collect by walls.

11. Work with the patio's boundaries

'Walls and fences provide useful garden space, so think vertically with your design scheme,' advises James. 'Fix vine eye screws and wire to a fence, or a trellis to a wall, for wall shrubs and climbers to grow up. You can mask ugly walls with cedar strips, ornate trellis or concrete render. If you choose to paint them, keep the colours light and subdued so that boundaries recede. Cobalt blue walls, for example, will make the space feel like a blue cell, so stay neutral. Tall fencing, walls or dense planting can create cramped little corners in small courtyards, which aren’t practical to use. However, if you subtly conceal parts of the garden so that you can’t see the entire space all at once it can make it feel bigger than it actually is. A large potted bamboo or two, a freestanding trellis covered with sweet peas or tall planting with lacy perennials, such as Verbena bonariensis spilling from the flowerbeds, will help to achieve this without taking over your garden.'

• Find more flower bed ideas to complement your paved spot in our edit.

12. Frame a large paved garden space with planting

Vertical garden ideas save on ground space and can add depth to all types of paved garden space. Get creative and trying using the likes of trellis and more to grow clematis, jasmine or rambling rose. 'Plant up the boundaries first with climbers, then layer plants down in front of them, finishing with the smallest at the front,' advises garden designer and horticulturalist Matt James. 'With space at a premium at the back, choose well-behaved wall shrubs instead of big, spreading shrubs. Good choices would be Ceanothus, Chaenomales and Garrya elliptica – the gorgeous silk tassel bush – pruned and trained tight to the boundary. For an oriental feel, try tidy clump-forming bamboos like Fargesia nitida and grasses like Miscanthus; both are tall but thin.

'For the middle tier, plant smaller evergreens such as Christmas box, sage, Cistus, Pittosporum ‘Nanum’ and the smaller deciduous Viburnums, depending on the aspect. Mix in stalwart perennials, like Japanese anemones, Geranium phaeum and ferns for shade, with asters, Echinacea, Linaria and Lysimachia for sunny aspects.

'Plant the pockets in the front tier with ground cover perennials such as silver Stachys byzantina, Ajuga, catmint, ornamental dead nettles and low-growing thyme. Sprinkle a few bulbs throughout for added interest in this space.'

If you have space, then a well-watered container garden with fresh carrots and runner beans is a cook’s dream. Bush roses, fuchsias and camellias are beautiful, sweet-smelling flowers that thrive on a patio if a kitchen garden isn't your thing.

13. Enhance a small paved area with a green wall

A good way to make the most of a small paved garden space is to fit a green wall, consisting of interlocking planting trays filled with specialist planting medium, attached to structural support posts and specialist backing boards. This can take all manner of evergreen and flowering plants and even edibles, and for best results should be irrigated automatically.

• Find more small garden ideas in our edit.

14. Complete garden paving with outdoor lighting

Create the perfect atmosphere by investing in some soft garden lighting. Solar-powered garden lighting is an ideal option, particularly to avoid dangerous trailing wires. Solar lights come in many different varieties to hang in branches, trellis, or around a table top. Richly coloured Moroccan lanterns are soothing on a summer’s evening, especially if you use insect-repelling citrus candles. For brighter options, a qualified electrician can install power and down-lighters. 

• Find all the garden lighting ideas that you need.

15. Add those final touches to your paved space

Complete your paved garden space so that it is not just a joy to look at, but also to be in. Think about garden seating, complete with an awning or even a patio umbrella to protect against the rain. 

You could even add one of the best chiminea options or bring your favorite fire pit ideas to life to create a stylish focal point. If there is space, consider a BBQ or an outdoor dining area, ideal for family meals and entertaining friends. 

• Want more covered patio ideas? We can help.

16. Think of the effects of weathering on paving

Appearances are important, but so is performance. Garden paving and decking should be slip-resistant, durable, and require little maintenance. Retaining structures built with bricks, blocks, sleepers or stacked stone should stand firm even if the soil beneath is waterlogged. While good-quality materials cost more, they will last longer.

From a visual perspective, check if a material weathers well. Oak, natural stone and copper only get better with age. Concrete imitation paving won’t change at all; however, for some people, this is exactly the point.

Which is the best paving material to use?

Most garden designers use three to four different materials, such as granite, brick and oak, to avoid a look becoming too busy. This makes it easier to achieve garden design unity. Don’t feel you can’t break up one monotonous material – knapped flint along side clay bricks is common in rural gardens, for example. Or use smaller units of the same thing – a ribbon of rough granite setts running through crisp sandblasted granite slabs could subtly delineate a children’s play space.

Natural stone paving is well worth the money also: durable, frost resistant, it should last decades if properly cared for. As a rule, if you don't know what you want, go for sandstone, which complements most garden design schemes. In a contemporary garden, granite or limestone paving slabs will look very smart, too.

Which paving style is best?

Hard landscaping can enhance or ruin a scheme. Rustic clay pavers, river-worn gravel, split riven sandstone and tall hazel hurdles suit more traditional designs. For modern schemes, sawn limestone, quartzite, planed oak – even polished concrete – are common, although cut, sanded or planed materials usually cost more. But don’t be afraid to break the rules. Traditional materials used in a contemporary way (such as porphyry or sandstone planks) also feature extensively in modern designs, for a pleasing hybrid of old and new.

Do you need planning permission to pave a UK garden?

There are no restrictions on the area of land which you can cover with hard surfaces at, or near, ground level. However, significant works of embanking or terracing to support a hard surface might need planning permission if you live in the UK. Likewise, if you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant works whether internal or external.

How materials behave and affect the wider environment is a hot topic. Water run-off is a key issue, especially in UK towns and cities where old drains can no longer cope with run-off from so much extra paving and tarmac. Rules introduced in 2008 now mean impermeable surfaces mustn’t exceed five square metres in a front garden unless angled to a lawn or flowerbed; otherwise you’ll need planning permission.

Many permeable alternatives exist, from gravel and block paving (‘rumbled’ blocks look more natural) to reinforced grass (such as Geogrid from Grassform), so it’s not difficult to comply. Porous paving and bound gravel, even permeable tarmac, are also worth considering, especially if you want to create an eco-friendly garden. 

How do you prepare ground for pavers?

The key to the lifespan of all hardscape is the foundation or sub-base. The depth and construction varies according to materials. Garden paving slabs typically require a solid foundation (5cm to 20cm deep, depending on soil conditions and material), ensuring no movement. Brick or block pavers for driveways are usually laid on compacted sand (a ‘laying course’), over a thick sub-base. Only the edges are cemented, to hold the whole surface together.

Gravel drives need a compacted sub-base, but paths typically don’t. Never scrimp; ask a landscape contractor for advice.

Can you lay a paved area yourself?

Taking the DIY route and learning how to lay a patio or paved space yourself will help save money on a garden redesign and guarantee that it is done on your timescale. A contractor will likely be quicker and provide a better-quality finish, but you will have to fit into their schedule, and it will affect your budget. And, don't forget, if you are unsure about your patio's design, it may be worth hiring a garden designer for a day's consultancy.

Deciding which course to take will allow you to create a more accurate schedule and budget. 

• Find more budget garden ideas feature for more help in this area.

How much does it cost to pave a garden in the UK?

The labour cost for paving will depend very much on where you live, but expect to pay between £75 and £100 per square metre for someone to prep and bed down the paving slabs on a mortar mixture. 

The cost of the patio slabs depends on their design, size, construction, quantity and quality. Cut natural stone costs more than split, while loose gravel is cheaper than resin-bound. Concrete imitation paving costs less than the real thing and, being a uniform thickness, is quicker to lay, too. Factor in labour and machinery, and always get quotes from at least three contractors.

It is worth remembering that up to 80 per cent of your landscaping costs will be allocated to ground works. There is often little difference in costs between the installation of cheap paving products and more expensive ones, so choose the paving that you really want.

DIY keeps costs down, but know your limits. Laying a gravel path is simple (don’t forget the cost of edging), and laying herringbone path is within the reach of a competent DIYer, but for brickwork, rendering, plastering and patio stone, employ a professional for a quality finish. Retaining walls and steps isn’t easy, plus it’s essential to get them right for safety.

Where to source your patio paving?

Where you buy your patio paving slabs really depends on your budget. Cut the costs by with plenty of research. Local builders merchants and DIY sheds offer good deals, and using local materials can cut costs, but this isn’t always the case. Brazilian slate, for example, is cheaper than Welsh. Likewise, reclaimed materials are rarely cheaper than new.

If you have the time and budget to look for something more interesting, specific, or in line with the style of an older property, many reclamation and salvage yards carry reclaimed paving slabs that might be perfect for your project. 

Garden paving never looked better 🙌

Give your outdoor space a welcoming glow this season by trying out a few key backyard light ideas. There are so many choices - from multicolored festoons and path lights to those that hang from trees and dazzle us with their ambience. You can create different looks with different style lights - boho charm with candles or a sophisticated pool party style with modern lanterns. There’s something for everyone whatever size space you have, so check out our selection of the best outdoor lighting below.

• Find the best porch lights for your outdoor space.

1. Add that welcoming touch

Fumbling for keys in the dark is not ideal and nor is not having a lovely welcoming glow to greet your guests when they visit - so investing in one or two front door lights is so beneficial. Crafted in the UK by skilled craftsmen using centuries old techniques, this brass Portico wall light in an antique finish with glass panels, also meets the nationally recognised standards related to the safety of products in the US and Canada. 

2. A cheeky chappie to hide in the undergrowth

Sometimes a spot of fun is what’s needed in the garden especially if you have kids. This chap is called Montyand he is adorable and cheeky and can be used both inside and out. He can peek out from behind a tree whilst illuminating a path - what’s not to love?

3. Rope style lights for a path

Add texture with these striking LED solar garden lights crafted from rope, they come in two colors - black and natural and emit a warm white light from the solar bulb that has an amber filament. Charge them during daylight hours and they will light your backyard for up to 8 hours, they do have an on/off switch if you want to preserve the charge. 

4. Poolside style

Swim under candlelight with these stunning flame garden candle holders. Uber stylish, you can place as many as you like along the pool, or use them to line a pathway or porch. 

Made from ultra robust powder coated aluminum they are built to last and each come with a scented candle in a glass jar. There are three sizes to choose from and they come in white or lava with a teak insert at the bottom. 

5. Use every inch of your backyard

This battery operated starburst hanging light can be hung from a branch or a hook in your backyard or porch. It has 120 warm white LEDs and you can use it inside when the weather turns cooler. 

Another useful feature is that it has a built in timer - so you can have it on for 6hrs and off for 18hrs so you can enjoy it without worrying about turning it off.

• Find more gorgeous porch ideas in our edit.

6. Go for drama on your porch

This Atomic pendant will dazzle your guests this summer with it’s modern design and interpretation of an atom. It's ideal for a modern style porch and can also be used inside. 

Crafted from aluminium and brass it’s shown here in black but also comes in white which shows off the gold powder paint detailing. 

• Not got that much room? We have heaps of small porch ideas too.

7. Use a trad design for a classic porch

This splendid square pendant is made from weathered brass and is externally glazed. It comes in three sizes and is suspended on a weathered brass hook with 1.5 metres of chain. You can adjust the height so it perfectly lights your favourite spot for relaxing on your porch as the sun goes down.

8. Pendant lights are so useful

Metal pendant lights have been around for a good few years now and it’s easy to see why - they’re classically stylish and very adaptable to different spaces. If you don’t have a backyard but simply a covered porch or sun spot, then you can use it above your dining table to create an ambient feel for your guest. For a similar design try Home Depot’s Globe electric black barn light. 

9. Get your festoons out

Hands up if you love a festoon light? They are so adorable right? We love how versatile they are and you can hang them up so easily from hooks to branches to illuminate special family gatherings over the summer. 

This LED light bulb string has 9.5m of black wire with 20 warm white LED bulbs that have clips so you can use them to attach with too. 

10. Don't forget step lights

No tripping up your steps with these designs! They are solar powered LED deck lights that can be used in damp locations - always a bonus!

They will light up your walkway and stairs and each unit will automatically illuminate during the evening and then solar power back up during the day. 

11. Light and cool – a winning combo!

Poolside relaxation can get warm, so invest in a smart fan that looks trad but is actually super smart. The Wynd 5 outdoor LED ceiling fan comes in four weather-resistant finishes as well as a 316 marine-grade stainless steel for harsher outdoor climates. It emits an LED light as well as keeping you cool AND it can be operated with the Modern Forms app which will pair with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Samsung Smart Things and Ecobee. 

• Find more above ground pool ideas in our edit.

12. Consider a floor lamp

Garden lighting tends to be either hanging or placed on the floor, but have you ever considered a floor lamp? It’s a design we often only use in the house, but this Balad upright stand from Fermob will shine a subtle light on your alfresco table as part of your outdoor living space.

Made from steel and available in four colors, it has a high protection treatment for outdoor use and an anti-UV powder coating. 

13. The portable option

This STORHAGA table lamp from Ikea ticks two handy boxes - firstly, it’s dimmable which we believe is always a useful feature, and secondly, it’s portable. Both are ideal for backyard use and can be used inside too. 

It has a battery that will give you 12 hours of light if fully charged, though it does take 7 hours to charge, so bear that in mind if you want to use it for a good few hours without the cord. Its design harks back to the old kerosene lamps from the past - but without the hassle! 

Staring at your backyard and thinking it looks a little…blah? That’s totally understandable. When you don't have a lotta dollar, it can be a li'l bit daunting trying to sort out your patio area. But trust me — you don’t need to spend a lot to get your backyard looking totally aesthetic.

When you’re living in a small space such as an apartment, having a decorated outdoor space is def a good idea. Aside from providing fresh air (apartments can get stuffy, people!), it also gives you extra space to host and relax.

With just a few easy tricks, you can turn your outdoor space into a total haven, where you can host all the al fresco dinners. I’m talking cute planters, cozy seating, flowers, and more. These are all low-cost options, with some even being totally free. Legit. 

Let’s go get inspired — keep on scrolling for all the budget backyard inspo.

These budget backyard ideas are gorgeous and easy to recreate

As well as being kind to your bank account, these ideas are all renter-friendly, so you don't need to stress about upsetting your landlord. For some of the ideas that require decor pieces, I've also rounded up buys so you can bag the look on a dime.
The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Consider a temporary pool

A temporary pool is a great way to add some life to your backyard without investing a load of money (or backyard space). This above-ground one is super cute, but for those renting, you might want to consider something smaller, such as an inflatable pool. These are so easy to set up and take down and look majorly stylish, too.

2. Make pallet patio furniture

Crafty queens, I've got a super cool DIY idea for you here. Learning how to make pallet furniture is a great option if you’re hoping to add seating to your backyard or patio without shelling out a ton of cash. It’s super easy to build and actually looks really stylish with the right cushions and outdoor pillows. The best part? It’s basically free if you’re patient enough to scroll through your local online marketplace.

3. Use an outdoor rug to cover up a dated patio

Stuck with a patio that you can't change, but that needs to be zhuzhed up ASAP? DW, there's an easy fix. Cover it up with an outdoor rug! You don’t have to worry about getting one made with custom dimensions — you can just grab a big rug or even layer a few smaller ones to create a funky pattern.

4. Use string lights to create a cozy atmosphere

Bright outdoor light fixtures are worse than The Big Light IMO, as they can be way too harsh on the eyes and can even attract gross bugs come nighttime. Instead, opt for a couple of strands of string lights, so you can live your fairycore fantasy to the max. Not only are they inexpensive, but they’re also soft enough to create a seriously relaxing place for evening summer chats.

5. Make DIY planters

Dreaming of your own tomato girl summer? You might not be able to get away on vacay, but you can turn your small patio into a tropical oasis by getting creative. If you’re hoping to grow your own veggies or plant flowers, start saving your tin cans, candle pots, and coffee containers — these all make surprisingly aesthetic, boho-vibe planters that can withstand the outdoors.

6. Add a hammock

Want to get your tan on but CBA with lying down on hard concrete? A simple hammock is a really cute way to create a chill zone in your small backyard. It doesn’t take up much space, is easy to set up or remove, and offers the perfect spot for a summer's day power nap or reading sesh.

7. Build your own trellis

Love flower power and want to turn your garden into a cottagecore dream? A trellis is an easy and budget-friendly way to add visual interest to a backyard or garden. Try building your own with a couple of 4-foot x 4-foot panels and wooden lattice, and then weave pretty flowers in the gaps such as roses, wisteria, and honeysuckle. So gorgeous.

8. Paint old outdoor furniture 

Is your wooden outdoor furniture looking dusty and boring? DW, bestie: You can actually turn it into something real cute. Sand it off and paint it to give it a whole new look. This yellow set is really beautiful and bold, but you could go for a pink shade if you're in your Barbiecore era, or even a beige shade if you're more into quiet luxury vibes.

9. Start a rock garden

Li'l zen moment? Oh, I'm so here for that. Rock gardens are a super cost-effective way to give your backyard a cool, relaxed look. It's so easy to build a rock garden without spending hardly anything — just pick up some nice rocks of varying sizes and shapes next time you're on a big hike or at the beach, and you're halfway there. Add in a few well-chosen plants like mosses and succulents, and your DIY rockery is ready.

10. Up your soft furnishings game

Make your outdoor furniture look even more inviting by adding soft touches to your chairs and benches. Pillows and blankets are both good choices for sprucing up your backyard ensemble and infusing texture, warmth, and color into the space. Throws are an especially great idea, as you and your guests can snuggle under them if the evening gets chilly. 

Up next: Summer party decor ideas you need to try this weekend

These Japanese garden ideas will help you try out something different in your garden this autumn. Japanese garden design is very different from Western garden design, with a much more minimalist approach to planting and decoration. Japanese gardens are soothing and tranquil spaces intended for contemplation, and if you've fallen in love with their beauty (as we have), there are several elements you can easily incorporate into your existing garden. Take a look at them below.

Then, find more garden ideas in our ultimate gallery. 

1. Plant acers

Acers – also known as Japanese maples – are wonderfully low-maintenance, hardy trees that thrive in shady, sheltered spots. Adding one to your garden is the easiest way to create a Japanese look in your garden. Acers rarely need pruning and naturally grow into a graceful shape. 

2. Start a rock garden 

Rock gardens are a staple of Japanese garden design. They're a lot more spare than Alpine rockeries: in fact, you can just have an area with a single rock surrounded by fine granite gravel, which you then rake in the characteristic circular patterns. Simple and very beautiful. 

Find more rock garden ideas in our gallery.

3. Space out your plants

The 'less is more' philosophy definitely applies to the Japanese garden style, and Japanese gardeners often talk about the spaces between plants being as important as the plants themselves. So, choose a couple beautiful mature trees and a few smaller plants, but avoid an overly dense planting scheme. 

4. Add a water feature

A carp pond is such a classic Japanese garden idea. Plant water lilies, iris, and pond grasses to create a tranquil pond scene. 

Find out how to build a pond in our guide.

5. Plant a fruit tree as a centrepiece

Cherry blossoms play an important part in Japanese culture, but they look lovely in any garden. There are many varieties of Japanese flowering cherry trees: some of them grow very tall, others can be grown in containers. Plant yours in a prominent spot in the garden: you want those blossoms to take centre stage come spring.

6. Experiment with bonsai

If you have very limited space in your garden, then a bonsai tree could be a wonderful way to add that Japanese element. Bonsai do require a bit more maintenance than regular trees, but some are hardy and will do well on a patio. 

Read more:

• Small garden ideas: 42 looks to copy in your tiny garden space
• Autumn plants: 18 best plants to add colour to your autumn garden

Block paving is a hardwearing and smart option when updating a driveway. By block paving a driveway you're instantly giving the front of your home a refresh and it's worth mentioning now that this is well within reach of a competent DIYer. Laying block paving is hard physical work and has to be done well to avoid having to redo it all. Paving a driveway is therefore the perfect project for summer, especially while we'll all be spending more time at home for the foreseeable future.

Find out how to lay block paving in our easy DIY guide below, then get more advice on how to plan and design a driveway in our guide, and if you're looking for more garden ideas you can check out our dedicated page.

• Find out more about garden design in our guide

What is block paving?

Usually made from moulded concrete blocks, clay bricks or natural stone, paving can be permeable to allow water to drain away. It allows you to be creative with your design – shades of terracotta and grey being the most popular. ‘Block paving is both durable and easy to maintain,’ says Emma Stone, at Marshalls. 

Regular shaped clay or concrete blocks are the best option as their interlocking shape makes them easier to lay, compared to irregular (but cheap) natural stone sets.

Does block paving a drive require planning permission?

Provided you use permeable block paving, or direct surface water (such as rainwater) to a flowerbed or a ground drain with soakaway, block paving your driveway won’t need planning permission. You will need planning consent to direct surface water to storm drains in the road.

What does block paving cost?

Materials will cost £18 to £28 per m². Hiring a 2.5 to 3.5m³ skip costs £120 to £150.

How long does it take to lay a driveway?

Paving a driveway is a week’s work on average, but you can split it over two or three weekends.

How to lay block paving

You will need:

• Concrete block cutter (£50 per week)
• Mini-digger (£60 to £70 per day)
• Plate vibrator (£50 to £60 per day)
• Disc cut-off saw (£40 to £50 per week)
• Laser level
• Shovel
• Pickaxe
• Wheelbarrow
• Knee pads
• Protective eyewear
• Ear protectors

Strip back the existing driveway

Start by taking the existing driveway back down to hardcore; or for a new driveway, strip back at least 250mm of topsoil (150mm sub-base, 50mm sand, 50mm paving). Work out the depth of the build up (compacted roadstone and paving) at the highest point, usually nearest the house, and work away from there, allowing for a gentle fall of at least 1:80 (25mm per 2m run) towards your drainage. Set your levels out with a laser level and mark on firmly planted timber posts with nails to which you can attach a line as a guide for laying to. Set out the drainage.

Prepare the sub-base

Lay the sub-base material, either MOT Type 1 Roadstone, slag, or scalpings (order by the tonne bag or, for large loads, a loose delivery by tipper truck may be cheaper). Compact firmly using a plate vibrator.

Bed down the edgings

Block paving is only as good as the edging containing it on all four sides, so make sure edging blocks or kerbstones are firmly bedded down in concrete haunching – they’ll need to bear the weight of a car.

How to lay block paving

Lay blocks in sections, starting in a corner at the lowest point. Create a level area over the sub-base using sharp sand to a depth of around 50mm – it’s easier to get a level surface if you set out timber guide rails for the area to the correct level. Compact with a plate vibrator, then spread 15mm of sharp sand over the area as a loose screed and set to the correct level by drawing a piece of timber over the guide rails. Lay the blocks loosely, a course at a time, working to your chosen bond or pattern, leaving joint gaps of 2-5mm around each block.

Compact the blocks

Once the entire area is covered, sweep it thoroughly and compact with the plate vibrator. Finally, sweep jointing sand (kiln dried) with a dry broom over the entire area, ensuring all joints are filled and then vibrate again.

Paving a driveway checklist

• Dig out softer areas and compact more sub-base in.
• Randomly mix and lay blocks from at least three packs for even distribution of colour.
• Apply a silicone sealant to protect against spillages once the paving has settled.
• Make sure the driveway is at least 150mm below your home’s damp-proof course level.
• Direct the fall (water) away from your house or garage.
• Make sure the concrete mix isn’t too wet. Place it at the front and rear of your laid out edging and push into place using a trowel.
• Bed the drainage channels in the same way as the edging.
• Set out manhole covers at the outset. Use a recessed tray cover you can fit paving into.

More renovation how tos:

• How to paint a garage door
• How to renovate a house: an expert guide
• How to extend your home: the ultimate guide
• Front garden design: complement your driveway

Redesigning your garden and considering a garden path? A herringbone path built from reclaimed handmade floor bricks is not only a functional but beautiful addition. Best of all, it's a job that can be tackled by DIYers. Follow our guide to building your own herringbone path.

Find more garden ideas at our dedicated ideas page.

Which bricks to use to create your path?

Not all bricks are frost resistant, so, before you buy, establish whether they are suitable for an outdoor project. It helps too if all the bricks are the same size – these were all different lengths, widths and thicknesses which makes building a safe level path more of a challenge. For speed and ease, choose new machine-made bricks or setts, which are available in a variety of different materials and colours, from sandstone to a worn rustic appearance. 

Find out how to choose the best paving for your garden.

Preparing to lay the brick path

Providing the path is used solely for walking on and will not be shared by cars or machinery, the bricks can be laid on well-compacted rubble with a top dressing of sand. Measure out the path, working out the best layout and avoiding the need to cut bricks. The edges will need to be haunched (or formed) with concrete in order to retain the bricks and the sub base. Construct the edges first and allow concrete to cure and harden for several days before beginning the path.

You will need…

• Bricks, edging stones, mortar and concrete (for building edges)
• Rake
• Sledgehammer or heavy piece of wood for compressing sub base
• Spirit level
• Trowel
• Broom
• Rubble or clean crushed stone
• Permeable membrane or old carpet
• Sharp sand for bedding
• Silver sand for grouting

1. Dig out bed for bricks

Excavate about five inches of soil, plus the depth of your bricks. You must remove more soil along the edges to allow for mortaring in a row of bricks as the foundation. Bed the edging stones in mortar; on the outside of the path haunch with concrete. Once concrete is firm, rake smooth; check with a spirit level.

2. Form a sound sub-base

Take a sledgehammer or a heavy piece of wood and tamp down hard to compress the surface. Now spread about three inches of clean hardcore or crushed stone to form a sound sub-base. Tamp all over once more until firm and compacted. Check that the base is flat with a spirit level.

3. Ensure good drainage

Spread a sheet of permeable membrane over the base to allow rain to percolate through but prevent perennial weeds pushing through between the bricks. It also acts as a barrier to keep the bedding sand separated from the earth and hardcore beneath. A piece of old carpet will also do the job.

4. Make a sand bed for bricks

Spread sharp sand on to the membrane. It needs to be about two inches thick for a bed for the bricks to be laid upon. Spread with a rake. Use a spirit level to ensure the area where you will initially work is level. If in future you wish to redesign the garden, bricks laid in sand rather than mortar can easily be reused.

5. Start laying the bricks

Check the first few bricks are level by laying a length of wood across – this is the guide to ensure no bricks protrude or sit lower than the others. Use this guide to check the path is level at the completion of each row. Place the spirit level on the top and move wood in all directions to check the path is level as you build.

6. Check diagonal alignment

Use another shorter, lighter piece of wood as a straight edge to check the diagonals are in line. A knock with a lump hammer will correct bricks out of alignment. The hammer is useful for tapping the bricks up close against each other. Modern bricks often have lugs so you can easily butt them close together.

7. Double-check the path is level

After laying roughly a metre check all the levels – it’s easy for the path to become askew. The advantage of laying on sand rather than bedding the bricks in mortar means errors can be easily put right. If the path must be used before it is finished put down walk-boards so the partly laid path won’t be disturbed.

8. Carry out finishing touches

Once the body of the path is completed, wedge offcuts of bricks or wood in the gaps to prevent movement. A path laid on sand is solid as long as the bricks are retained securely within the edging stones. Large gaps can be filled with cut bricks, smaller gaps with mortar. Sweep over kiln-dried silver sand to grout. This will offer a degree of porosity: rain will be able to run between the bricks and soak down into the soil and not cause drainage problems in the way a solid paved area can. If the path is going to run alongside the house, leave a gap of at least two feet to prevent rain bouncing on to walls and causing damp. Also check the height of soil levels: the path should not block air bricks and be at least six inches below any damp proof course.

More garden how-tos:

• How to lay a gravel path
• Maintaining ironwork railings
• How to plan a kitchen garden