Outdoor Living

Transform Your Backyard Into a Personal Meditation Garden

August 18, 2020

Sometimes we consider our backyard as the perfect place to entertain friends and family. While I love entertaining, a backyard can fulfill so many other purposes. Have you ever considered your backyard as the perfect spot to retreat and self-reflect? Why not use your backyard as a personal meditation garden?

Every now and then, some peace and quiet can do you good. Not convinced? Here’s a quick rundown of the benefits of meditating.

Why You Should be Meditating (Outdoors)

Man sitting outdoors meditating in a meditation garden

There’s a reason why meditation retreats are often immersed in nature. Meditation can help control anxiety, lessen stress, improve and promote mental and emotional health. Stress tends to amplify pain and inflammation. Meditation can help alleviate that. Outdoor meditation can also activate our senses, making us more alert and mindful. Nature provides a welcome distraction away from electronic devices and everyday responsibilities.

Through meditation, you can also enhance self-awareness to better tune into your thought habits. Find yourself struggling to pay attention? Meditation can lengthen your attention span and may even reduce age-related memory loss.

Due to the boost in positive thoughts and feelings that meditation can produce, this can lead to a general increase in kindness (we could all do with more of that, especially in today’s world).

A strengthened immune system, lowered blood pressure, and other general physical health benefits are also associated with meditation. Plus my favorite benefit of all – improved sleep: meditation can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

A meditation garden is the perfect environment to foster a calming atmosphere that allows practitioners to relax and find the peace they’re seeking. So, how can you create the perfect Zen garden? Here are some ideas.

The Great Escape: How to Create Your Meditation Garden

Before you begin, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, personal needs, and preferences. What type of meditation will you be practicing? Some people find the act of gardening to be a form of meditation in itself. Or perhaps you prefer having an area to practice yoga? Once you’re clear on your intentions, you can begin the design process.

1. Choose a Quiet Corner

The purpose of a meditation garden is to help you feel tranquil, safe, and protected. It should be a private space, as separate as possible from your entertaining area. Select an area of your backyard and separate it (partially or completely) using shrubs, plants, a fence, or any other simple, low-maintenance material. Keep this area free of chaos. Remember, you’re trying to achieve a sense of calm.

2. Add Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand

Close-up of rocks stacked on sand in an outdoor meditation garden

Rocks, sand, and gravel are some of the more popular ways of adding a bit of Zen to your garden. This element is easy to make – simply create a space for your sand and add rocks wherever and however you please. Use a rake to create lines and/or relaxing ocean-like waves. The act of raking sand and rearranging rocks can be calming and helps to increase mindfulness. This is a great way to unwind and clear your mind. Additionally, rocks and sand require zero maintenance on your part – one less thing to worry about.

3. Incorporate Shade

Meditating with the sun beating down on you may get a little uncomfortable. Although sunshine is great for your outdoor meditation garden, you may want some filters for relief from heat – especially in summer. If you don’t have an ideally-placed tree, you can easily add shade by using a patio umbrella, shade sail, or pergola.

4. Create a Pathway

A shaded pathway that leads to an outdoor meditation garden

Many meditation gardens have a pathway leading to a seating area. Your pathway can be as simple or creative as you like. Consider using pavers, bricks, gravel, or stone, as well as spiral designs. If you have the space, a labyrinth is a great idea as it can symbolize the journey to finding your inner self.

5. Seating Area

This does not necessarily have to be an actual chair or bench. It could simply be a space to place your yoga mat, pillows, or even a hammock. What matters is how you intend to use the space in your meditation garden. If you want to read a book, consider a comfortable, waterproof outdoor sofa. If you intend to stretch, make sure your space is clear, flat, and can fit a yoga mat or two – there’s no harm in sharing your meditation garden with others who are also seeking relaxation.

6. Greenery

Close-up of ferns in an outdoor meditation garden

Green is a soothing color and helps keep things natural. Add texture, shape, and varying shades to make your meditation garden more visually appealing. Consider native plants, trees (older growth trees already located in the space are ideal), hedges (shape them for visual interest), and shrubs – they’re low maintenance.

7. Add Scents

Lavender not only has visual appeal but its scent can be calming and help improve sleep. Consider other sweet-smelling perennials to awaken your senses. What is meditation without a dose of aromatherapy? Remember that these scents may attract birds and insects, so choose wisely.

8. Water Features

Water features in an outdoor meditation garden

The soothing white noise of water has a calming effect. In fact, water sounds have long been used in meditation. There is scientific evidence suggesting that the in-and-out rhythmic motion of ocean tides and waves can positively affect the neuronal waves in the brain, promoting a peaceful pace of thought. Water can also mask any unwanted noise such as traffic. From a fountain to a pond or a birdbath – the choice is yours. If you can’t put in a water feature, consider using a white noise app that plays different water sounds.

9. Add Artwork

Art has the ability to tap into our inner selves – plus it’s visually appealing. From large-scale Buddha sculptures to small figurines, the artwork you choose for your meditation garden should calm, soothe, and inspire positive thinking. Consider yourself an artist? Create some art of your own.

10. Lighting

If evening meditation is more your thing, consider some natural outdoor light such as candles or an outdoor fire pit or fireplace. To create a serene atmosphere, opt for dim lighting and stay away from overly bright, distracting lights.

Make Your Meditation Garden Your Sanctuary

There’s no need to travel to a yoga ashram à la “Eat Pray Love.” Sometimes there’s no place like home to gain some peace of mind. No matter what features you choose for your meditation garden, make sure they are authentically you. Create a personal outdoor space that allows for stillness, peace, and positivity – you deserve it.

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What’s the Best Outdoor Fire Pit for Your Backyard?

June 16, 2020

No matter the season, an outdoor fire pit is always a welcome idea – from cozying up for stories and s’mores with loved ones on a cold winter night to digging into a juicy meal cooked on the grill at a summer get-together.

Many memories are created around fire pits. So if you’re feeling the heat trying to choose one, I get it. That’s why I’ve created a quick guide to help you choose the perfect outdoor fire pit for your backyard. Let’s get into it.

Choosing Your Outdoor Fire Pit by Style

One of the easiest ways to choose a backyard fire pit without getting too technical is by style. Try to choose one that best fits your existing (or intended) backyard design as well as the intended uses for your fire pit. If you’re designing a new backyard with your pool builder, now is the perfect time to install a fire pit too. There are many options to choose from; here are a few of my favorites.

1. Fire Bowls

Backyard fire pit or fire bowl on an outdoor patio

You’ve probably seen or used a DIY version of a fire bowl before, but the more decorative ones can be a beautiful yet simple centerpiece for your backyard. They come in a wide range of sizes and can be raised on legs or placed directly on the ground. Logs (for the wood-burning type) or glass beads (for the gas-burning type) are placed directly in the bowl. The benefit of fire bowls is that they can be a portable option depending on size, so if you like to rearrange your backyard this is a good option for you. They’re also quite easy to clean.

Since fire bowls are self-contained and portable, they’re a good option for areas with regulations that restrict outdoor fire structures.

2. In-Ground Outdoor Fire Pit

In-ground backyard fire pit with hot dogs ready to grill

Depending on where you want to place your backyard fire pit, you may want to consider an in-ground one. Building a fire pit into the ground is one of the easiest and least expensive options. You can even DIY it by digging a hole and lining it with rocks to contain the fire. You can also use decorative rocks as an outer rim to customize the look however you’d like.

3. Fire Table

Fire table in a backyard — Image source: easyfirepits.com

A fire table is like a sleek backyard table with a small fire feature built into the middle. I’m all for anything that has more than one use! Depending on its size and design, a fire table can offer the functionality of an outdoor table with the added benefit of a fire pit. But many fire tables are quite small and they’re solely intended for use as a fire pit. Some homeowners like the look and feel of fire tables over fire bowls or other designs.

Fire tables are a great way to add value to your property but can be quite expensive to install and maintain. They can also pose a safety hazard – especially for children – as the fire isn’t typically as well contained compared to deeper fire bowls or in-ground fire pits. That said, they do help create an inviting outdoor atmosphere in your backyard.

4. Outdoor Fireplace or Chimenea

Backyard fireplace in someone's backyard

Your choice of an outdoor fireplace, sometimes called a chimenea, can be as rustic and simple or as contemporary and extravagant as you want.

Just like with fire tables, having a fireplace as an outdoor fire pit increases the value of your home. It also provides aesthetic appeal, creates an ambiance that only fireplaces do best, gives a great excuse to entertain, allows you to cook outdoors, and provides warmth during those cooler nights. Additionally, the flames are covered, so a light sprinkle of rain won’t force you to take the festivities inside.

5. Tabletop Fire Pit

Tabletop patio fire pit — Image source: azbackyardcustom.com

If you’re all about low maintenance and portability, an outdoor fire pit that sits atop your patio table may be just what you’re looking for. While they may not give off the glorious heat and large flames of a proper campfire, they’re still enchanting in their own right. Tabletop fire pits work well if you live in an apartment or condo with a balcony or small outdoor space that doesn’t allow for other types of outdoor fire pits (always check your local regulations on open fires/fire pits).

This type of fire pit is also noncommittal. If you’re toying around with the idea of having a fire pit but aren’t quite sure, give a tabletop one a try first.

Choosing Your Outdoor Fire Pit by Fuel Source

There are 5 main fuel sources to choose from: wood, natural gas, propane, charcoal, bio-ethanol, and gel fuel. Each has its pros and cons.

1. Wood

Wood-burning outdoor fire pit with someone sitting by it

Wood is the traditional option for a backyard or patio fire pit. It’s natural, cheap, and authentic to the whole “backyard living” theme. The downside? They’re difficult to start, require maintenance, and the smoke can bother your guests. And what happens if your wood is still burning when you want to call it a night? That said, there’s nothing quite like the crackling sound of wood and the aroma that fills the air.

Before purchasing this type of fire pit, make sure that local regulations will allow you to use it. It’s never fun to plan an evening by the fire pit, only to learn its a “no burn” day. And don’t forget to stock up on firewood!

2. Natural Gas

A patio fire pit burning natural gas with a wine glass sitting next to it

Natural gas initially costs more than other fuel sources because it has to be installed by a professional and connected to a natural gas line in your home. Once the installation is done, it costs a lot less in the long run than other types of fuel. Natural gas is a perfect option for permanent outdoor fire pits such as a fire table. This gives your gas fire pit a constant fuel source without the need to refill. It also burns clean and is easy to use.

3. Propane

A propane gas fire pit is also easy to use and doesn’t create smoke, unlike wood. This fuel source is portable and simple to install. Propane is an ideal option for portable gas fire pits, enabling you to move it around your backyard as frequently as you want.

4. Charcoal

Charcoal is a great option for a tabletop fire pit since it produces a controlled, even heat with a smaller flame.

5. Gel Fuel

This fuel source is a chemical that doesn’t emit any odor or irritating smoke. Gel fuel can be used in some styles of fire bowls and tables, depending on their design. It typically comes in tin cans filled with alcohol gel. Always make sure there are no large cracks or dents in the tin before burning, which could present a fire or burn hazard.

6. Bio-Ethanol

Bio-ethanol is another clean-burning fuel and is derived from the fermentation of plant byproducts. Unlike gel fuel, it takes about 15 minutes to warm up. It can also be more costly than gel fuel. However, certain fire pit products operate best using bio-ethanol, so always read the fine print before making a purchase.

Outdoor Fire Pit Materials

There is quite a wide range of materials to choose from that will be easy to clean and, most importantly, durable and practically fireproof for your backyard fire pit. Here are some of the most popular.

1. Stone

Considering how heavy stone can be, it’s a great choice for an outdoor fire pit or fireplace that you don’t intend to move around. Stone doesn’t rust and is easy to clean. I also love the aesthetic appeal stone masonry provides – it can complement your décor if your home has brick or stone details.

Keep in mind that stone doesn’t like to be exposed to extreme cold temperatures: it tends to crack after freezing and thawing a few times. This makes stone a great option for warmer climates.

2. Cast Iron

Cast iron is another heavy option perfect for permanent fire pit structures. When it comes to décor, cast iron is an ideal choice if you’re going for a rustic look. Cast iron fire pits are durable and sturdy and are ideal in colder climates because they generate heat better than other fire pit materials. Plus, they don’t tend to rust easily, making them great for cooking.

The downside? Cast iron is prone to discoloration and can be dangerous if touched before cooling. It may not be the best option for families with young children.

3. Clay

A patio fire pit made of clay — Image source: charmingfireplace.com

From a safety point of view, clay fire pits are safer because they don’t get hot as easily as cast iron. Clay ages like wine – the older it is, the better it looks. And because each clay fireplace is a work of art, their designs are more unique. However, clay fire pits tend to be fragile, require lots of maintenance, and have a shorter life span compared to sturdier materials like cast iron.

4. Steel

A steel outdoor fire pit — Image source: notonthehighstreet.com

There’s a reason why steel is a popular choice for outdoor fire pits. It’s lightweight, durable, weather-resistant, inexpensive, and easy to maintain. Like cast iron, steel tends to heat up quickly and should be handled with extra caution. Take special care when young children are present.

Safety Tips for Your Backyard Fire Pit

It’s important to take care with your outdoor fire pit regardless of which type you choose. Here are some things to keep in mind:

The fire pit should be at least 10 feet away from any neighboring yard, structure, or tree. The farther away the better.
Fire pits should not be placed directly on grass or wooden decks. Instead, they should be placed on non-flammable surfaces such as concrete, stone slabs, or patio bricks.
Never position a fire pit under a tree with low-hanging branches or under a covered porch as this poses a fire hazard. If you absolutely must place it under a covered porch, opt for a gas-fueled fire pit since the flames are easier to control and there is less risk of embers getting loose.

Create Memories with an Outdoor Fire Pit

A group of teenagers sitting around a wood-burning backyard fire pit

From simple to extravagant and everything in between, there’s an outdoor fire pit out there for you. I suggest picking a style you love and then narrowing it down according to material. The right outdoor fire pit will bring about the feeling of being around a campfire – and it’s sure to be a popular hangout spot for you, your family, and friends to create wonderful new memories.

I’m curious – which are your favorite types of outdoor fire pits? Do you have one already? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

9 Backyard Design Trends Inspiring Us in 2020

May 19, 2020

As the world changes, the world of background design trends seems to be changing, too. This year marked a new decade full of possibilities. As we inch towards summer, there’s a lot more uncertainty. However, some incredibly positive trends are emerging.

As human beings, we’ve become more family-focused and aware of what’s important. We seem to be more interested in proactively making positive changes in our lives. We also seem more collectively aware of our impact on the world as a whole.

These societal attitude shifts are translating directly into backyard trends. The exciting thing is that these trends are also pretty awe-inspiring. They have me wanting to spend even more time in my backyard.

If you’re looking for a little inspiration for your outdoor space, here are nine of our favorite backyard design trends for 2020.

Trend #1: A Focus on Sustainability

Image of a seedling sprouting in a lightbulb, showing the concept of sustainability

Sustainability isn’t a new concept. People have been environmentally aware and moving towards eco-friendly design for a while. In 2020, this focus extends to backyard design trends, too.

There’s a significant rise in the use of solar lights, drought-tolerant landscaping, composting, and drainage systems. This year, we’re seeing more excitement surrounding low-emission lawn mowers, permeable pavers, and programmable irrigation systems.

People are also shifting towards more sustainable materials for their decks and outdoor furniture. Reclaimed wood and other recycled materials have gained momentum over less environmentally friendly alternatives like plastic or steel.

There’s even been a significant uptick in backyard farms, home gardening, and chicken ownership since the coronavirus started, which takes personal sustainability to a whole new level. Overall though, sustainability has moved from just a catchy buzzword to one of the most significant backyard design trends for 2020.

Trend #2: The Use of Smart Tech

woman and man looking at smart home tablet

People love smart tech, and the backyard design industry knows it. There’s no shortage of nifty new gadgets for the backyard in 2020. The most popular tech this year are systems that integrate with your smartphone.

There’s intricate lighting software that you can program and control with your phone. There are pool robots and lawnmower robots that you can control with an app. There are audio systems, programmable watering systems, patio heating and air conditioners, security systems, and more.

Essentially, if there’s something that you want to do in your backyard, then chances are that there’s now a techier, smartphone-controlled app that can do it better, with less sweat from you.

These sorts of innovative solutions are fun to show off to your friends and family. The real benefit, though, is that they make having a functional and fun backyard a breeze.

Trend #3: An Emphasis on Lower-Maintenance Design

A hardscaped backyard showing bricks and stone walls

Everyone is looking for lower-maintenance garden trends this year. It’s not because we’re lazier. It’s because we all have much less time than before. We want to spend more time enjoying our backyard than working on it.

This desire for low-maintenance design has resulted in an increase in drought-resistance landscaping and hardscaping. (Hardscaping is landscaping with stone, bricks, concrete, etc.) The drought-resistant landscape also ties into the sustainability trend we already discussed.

The goal of perfecting a green and manicured lawn isn’t on anyone’s backyard design trends list this year. Instead, people are much more focused on designing backyards that are functional and low maintenance.

Trend #4: Minimalism is In

Two Adirondack chairs in a backyard showing the concept of minimalism

Minimalism isn’t just a trend for inside your house anymore. The minimalism movement has made its way outdoors and onto our list of backyard design trends. If you haven’t inhaled Marie Kondo’s book or watched that Netflix series yet, you might not be familiar with minimalism principles.

Minimalism isn’t a new concept, but it started gaining mainstream attention in 2016, right around the same time the tiny house movement took off. The philosophy is simple: it’s about getting rid of everything that isn’t necessary and focusing on the things that matter.

This often means investing in higher-quality products from the start and resisting impulse buys. As a design aesthetic, it’s a significant departure from the busy decoration motifs of the past. When it comes to backyard design trends, it’s all about practical furniture and features paired with minimal decorations.

Ultimately, this aesthetic allows you to focus on the activities you’re participating in versus what’s surrounding you.

Trend #5: Functional Gardening

A woman's hands holding a small plant over the dirt

When it comes to garden trends, there’s been a considerable shift towards functional gardening. This is especially true in a post-coronavirus world. People don’t want to just garden for aesthetic reasons. They want to garden with a purpose.

There are more people interested in composting and gardening to grow edible plants. There’s a palpable desire to be closer to the food supply. So, more people are taking it upon themselves to learn to garden and grow their own food.

People are also interested in creating gardens for their children. They want to provide a space for their kids to learn, play in the dirt, and connect with nature. So, there are many more gardens whose purpose is to create a space for childhood enrichment.

Finally, there are also backyard design trends and gardening around the habitation of wildlife, particularly bees. More gardeners are gardening to foster ideal environments to promote and attract bees. Overall, these garden trends are leaning more towards purpose and less towards aesthetics.

Trend #6: Water Features are Still in Vogue

A close-up of pool water in the sunlight

Water features remain one of the prominent backyard design trends of 2020. While we’re all more conscious of water conservation, we still enjoy a good water feature. There’s something so relaxing about the sound and appearance of water.

Water features include pools, fountains, fishponds, and, more recently, rainwater collection systems. The right water feature for your backyard depends on your region, budget, and preferences. However, including water somewhere in your backyard seems like a must-have this year.

Water features serve several purposes. First, they look fantastic. Second, they usually make some noise, which helps drown out any ambient sound, allowing you to escape the outside world. Third, if you integrate an irrigation system, a birdbath, or a rainwater collection feature, you can also contribute to sustainability efforts.

Trend #7: Entertainment Takes Center Stage

Many of us find ourselves at home more than usual. Because of this, our backyards have become beacons of entertainment and peace. It’s no surprise, then, that entertainment is a top priority in backyard trends.

Expect to see more outdoor kitchens, firepits, and backyard theaters in the months to come. Also, anticipate seeing yard games like croquet, backyard Jenga, horseshoes, and bean bag toss become permanent yard fixtures, rather than things you pull out of the garage twice a year.

Backyards are moving towards full-time entertainment spaces. The more activity zones there are, the better the backyard. This doesn’t feel like one of those fleeting backyard design trends, either. More people are prepping for future stay-at-home mandates by beefing up their yard for full-time fun.

Trend #8: Moving the Living Space Outdoors

An indoor-outdoor living area with couch and pillows showcasing one of the backyard design trends

Along the same lines as entertainment spaces, more people are expanding their living space by creating more livable outdoor areas. Wicker furniture and stiff plastic chairs are being replaced with comfy outdoor couches and blankets to lounge on. Patios and decks are starting to look much more like outdoor living rooms than the porches of the past.

It’s not just furniture either. Weather- and glare-resistant televisions are gaining traction along with full fireplaces, dining rooms, bars, and ceiling fans. The fun thing about this trend is that you can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.

Some people will take this trend to the extreme with a fully covered outdoor living and dining area. Others will embrace the trend by bringing pillows outside and upcycling an old dresser into a nifty outside bar.

Trend #9: Niche Designs

For the last trend on our list of backyard design trends for 2020, we’re actually merging a few interesting trends into one. There are three particularly fascinating backyard design trends that aren’t right for everyone, but may be perfect for others.

The first of the three is Zen spaces. As we all search to find peace, some people are turning to Eastern backyard design trends and creating Zen Garden-inspired backyard spaces. They’re taking a corner of their yard and designing it to mirror the aesthetic of a Buddhist monastery, complete with rock gardens, waterfalls, koi ponds, and relaxing décor.

The second design trend is the rise of kid corners. While a swing set or sandbox isn’t outside the norm for backyards, some parents are going all out and creating inventive and dedicated kid corners. Since more children are at home these days, parents are feeling the need to have plenty of engaging activities for their kids to do. A section of the yard packed with kid-friendly equipment is a perfect solution.

The third trend is for the pet parents out there. Pet play areas, including “catios” (cat patios) and dog obstacle courses, are gaining popularity this year. Pet owners who enjoy spoiling their furry friends are going absolutely bananas for this backyard trend.

These three niche backyard design trends speak to the rise in people’s desire to create custom spaces that fit their unique lifestyle and needs.

Putting Backyard Design Trends into Action

Group of young adults lounging in a backyard next to a pool

The main theme across all the backyard design trends remains the same: People want to spend more time doing the things they love in their backyards. As a culture, we’re becoming more aware of our values and impact, and that’s translating into backyard design.

We’re focusing more on quality, both in the products we’re using, and in the ways we’re spending our time. While we’re hanging on to some traditional design trends, I think we’re in the process of creating a new design paradigm.

I predict this decade will be one that’s focused on family and creating spaces to cultivate our relationships. I imagine we’ll spend much more time soaking up the sun and escaping in our backyards. While there are a lot of things to feel worried about, the possibility of spending more time with the ones I love in my backyard is something I’m really looking forward to.

What are your favorite backyard design trends? Share below!

QUIZ: What’s Your Backyard Design Style?

May 15, 2020

Are you curious about your backyard design style? You might already have an intuitive sense of your aesthetic preferences, but nailing down a specific design style for your backyard can be challenging. I mean, just scrolling through so many awe-inspiring Pinterest and Instagram photos can easily get us in a design daze.

With a few simple questions, though, you can get some clarity on your unique design style for your backyard or outdoor space.

This quiz is super simple. Don’t think too hard about any question – just go with your gut. Keep a tally of your answers as you go, and at the end, you’ll get a full profile of your design style.

Design Style Quiz

1. It’s a beautiful day outside, you can’t wait to _____________ ?

2. Which of these colors patterns best matches your energy?

3. Which outdoor seating area would you be most excited to sit in?

4. You’ve prepared a delicious meal. Where would you like to enjoy it?

5. Which one of these art pieces would you be most likely to display on your outdoor patio?

6. It’s the perfect summer night, but it’s getting dark. What type of lighting would you use to keep the party going?

7. Which water feature is a must-have for your dream backyard?

8. Which backyard hideaway would you most like to escape to?

9. Which living area would you most like to have?

10. No porch is complete without which hanging decoration?

Deciphering Your Outdoor Design Style

Mostly A’s – Bohemian

You love relaxing in your backyard. The more blankets you have, the happier you are. You’re most at peace surrounded by deep colors like violets, maroons, and greens. You’re likely a free spirit who appreciates all things artsy.

How do you infuse your boho aesthetic into your backyard design? Get twinkle lights for your patio and grab an ample number of pillows for sitting beneath the stars. (Hammocks are also encouraged). Focus your design on creating intimate and relaxing spaces throughout your backyard.

Mostly B’s – Traditional

You’re practical, and you’re also known for having great taste. For you, your backyard is about facilitating all the fun activities you can do there. You tend to lean towards decorations and furniture that are on-trend. You know that neutrals never go out of style, so you focus on picking pieces and projects that have some staying power.

Lean into your traditional design style. Focus on making sure you have ample space and the ability to entertain with functional appliances and equipment that will facilitate enjoying your outdoor space. Consider adding an outdoor fireplace or kitchen, and be sure you have comfortable patio furniture.

Mostly C’s – Bold and Contemporary

No one’s ever called you boring. You like things bold! For you, every decoration is a potential to make an impact, and you get really excited about one-of-a-kind finds. You probably aren’t incredibly outdoorsy, but you appreciate how inspired you feel while outside. You like blending elements that shouldn’t belong together to create something truly unique.

To bring your design style home in your backyard, remember to play with colors. The key to this design style is to pick your moments to maximize impact. Focus on finding interesting furniture, plants, and decorations to function as focal pieces in your outdoor design, and then keep the surrounding decor simple so as not to overwhelm the bold components.

Mostly D’s – Nature-Inspired (English Garden Style)

Growing up, your favorite book was probably “The Secret Garden.” You love nature and everything about it. You love the look of old farmhouse cottages and English gardens. You feel most at home when you’re watching the birds, tending to your garden, or feeling the fresh grass beneath your bare feet.

This design style is all about gardening. Take the time to cultivate a lush and layered garden. Focus on perennial plants so that your work isn’t undone every season. Consider adding a natural stone walkway that meanders throughout your garden and add in plenty of whimsical features, like birdhouses. Be sure to include a seating area tucked away somewhere so that you can enjoy the natural oasis you’ve created.

Stay Inspired with Your Outdoor Design

Family of four sits on couch in backyard laughing together

No matter your outdoor design style, I’ve found that the key to staying inspired in your outdoor space is to keep things fresh and mix up your décor at least once a season. Have fun, tune in to your intuition, and make sure to share your outdoor designs with us on Instagram using the hashtag #bkydlife!

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12 Ways to Spruce Up Your Outdoor Living Space

April 21, 2020

Our outdoor living space is my happy place, especially in the current shelter-at-home reality. During this period of social isolation, there are only so many times you can clean your kitchen, reorganize your closet, and tackle the weeds before you need a new project to occupy your time.

For me, that restless energy has turned into endless outdoor living space sprucing. And, if I’m being honest, I’ve been spending way too much time searching for more DIY outdoor décor ideas!

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your outdoor living space, I have you covered. I’ve compiled a list of twelve ideas for you to try. They’re all relatively easy and can be accomplished using items you probably already have around the house.

Outdoor Décor Ideas for Sprucing Up Your Outdoor Living Area

(1) Create a Cozy Space

If you’re starting to feel cooped up, turn your outdoor patio or backyard into a second living area by bringing some indoor furniture outside. You can grab blankets, throw pillows, rugs, and chairs to create a cozy space outside to read and relax.

Image of cozy backyard elements of an outdoor living space

(2) Recycled Tin Cans for Potted Plants

Upcycle your coffee, bean, or other tin cans to create some retro-inspired pots for your potted plants. Tin cans have a cool, rustic vibe all on their own, but you can also paint or decorate them to make them extra unique.

(3) Hand-Painted Signs

Hand-painted signs are some of my favorite DIY garden décor. You can really transform your outdoor living space to match your personality with a hand-painted sign. Take it a step further by making your sign dual purpose: add some hooks to the bottom to hang gardening tools or towels.

Hand-painted signs to create a beautiful outdoor living space

(4) Ladder Garden

If you have an extra wooden ladder lying around, throw some paint on it, and turn it into a beautiful plant display. Alternatively, if you have extra wood and nails on hand, you could even build a simple ladder to create this effect.

Outdoor living space idea of wooden ladder

(5) Pocket Planter

Start your very own herb garden using a simple hanging organizer like an over-the-door shoe holder. Plant each herb in a small, flexible potting container and then nestle each pot into the spots in the hanging organizer. Hang the pocket planter on an outdoor wall with ample sunlight and be sure to water and feed the herbs as often as required.

Outdoor living space with a hanging herb garden/pocket planner

(6) Make a Fairy Garden

If you have little ones, fairy gardens are really fun to make. You can transform any potted plant or small garden space into a magical fairy paradise. Add glitter, little pebbles, a small house, and more to make it look like a tiny fairy lives in your garden.

A small fairy garden as a garden decor idea.

(7) Paint Your Pavers

Add an extra unique touch to your outdoor living area by painting your pavers or concrete. Use a stencil (or make one of your own) to paint your outdoor pavers and add a classy splash of color.

Painted pavers in an outdoor living space

(8) Create a Handmade Wind Chime

This is one of my favorite outdoor décor ideas when you’re limited on supplies but high on creativity. You can use everything from hangers and painted keys to wire and beaded strings. Get creative and find combinations that create the look (and sounds) you like.

Garden decor idea of a handmade windchime

(9) Make a Garden Path

I love the whimsy of a garden path: it leads people somewhere while also creating a sense of separation for the different areas in your outdoor living space. Create a simple path using discarded stones, tiles, or wood that leads to a central gathering place like a fire pit or sitting area.

(10) Paint a Fence Mural

If you’re artistically inclined, painted murals make for awe-inspiring art in your outdoor living space. If there are kids in the household, you could create a whimsical mural and involve them in painting simple things like flowers or stars.

Art painted on a fence as a garden decor idea

(11) Create a Meditation Space

Meditation spaces can be whatever you want them to be. They often feature a simple rock garden, a mat, candles, and some type of water display. Outdoor meditation spaces tend to be located next to plenty of greenery and away from the normal hubbub of life to allow for quiet contemplation.

Image of stacked rocks in a meditation garden

(12) Mason Jar Lights

Grab a few tea light candles and wire or string to create mason jar lights for your outdoor living space. For some added color, paint the outside of the jars using a light pastel color. Use the jars to light up walkways or side tables around your outdoor living area.

Hanging mason jar lights in outdoor living space

Get Inspired to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space

While our stay-at-home environment can be overwhelming these days, there are still so many ways to enjoy the day-to-day in your backyard. With some inspiration and a little creativity, you can turn your outdoor living space into a haven, just like I have.

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