It’s true what they say: when you buy a home, you’ll never stop working on the garden. Something can always be done to enhance its visual appeal, whether it’s a simple addition like cool lighting fixtures or an all-out expansion with a new shed.
As homeowners, we always get this irresistible itch to do more to our backyards: a bit of hardscaping in the back, a water feature in the middle, oh, and what about a new patio just in time for summer?
In this guide, we’ll explore 5 innovative ways to upgrade your backyard aesthetics. You’ll find many practical and imaginative ideas to elevate your garden into the hideaway you’ve always dreamed of.
Build a Small Shed
Adding a small shed can free up some extra space in your garden while also adding some aesthetic charm. You’ll be able to use it to hide all the items that make your garden look a bit grubby, like your tools, bikes, and children’s toys.
Apart from its functionality, it can stand out as the highlight of your garden if you customize it correctly. Give it an eye-catching color, add some beautiful designs on the exterior, and consider visual enhancements like a sprawling trellis covered in ivy.
As you prepare for a new shed, you must decide how to fit it into your backyard. Zone it off into an area, ensure the ground is suitable, and do your research so you don’t break any laws.
Stepping Stones for Your Path
Photo credit: Timothy Dykes
While your garden pathway might already be clearly outlined, some stepping stones can help spark some curiosity among your visitors.
They’re nice for a trail with something waiting at the end, like the shed we mentioned at the beginning of this post or a secret bar hidden among the trees. Stepping stones are also a cheap addition; you can add them without spending much, especially when you use materials like pea rock or limestone.
Gazebo Pool House
One pool house idea that takes a lot of work but turns out gorgeous when done right is a gazebo pool house.
The gazebo is the easy part. You can build it with timber and a roof covering to give it protection from rain. It can also be used for different purposes, like a lounge area; you’ll just need to add some sofas and a table, so it looks the part.
If you already have a pool, you’re one of the lucky ones. For those who don’t, you should expect to pay an average of between $50 and $125 per square foot for one. The style you go for will play a big part in the price; concrete pools tend to be on the pricier end, while vinyl types are cheaper.
Vertical Green Walls
Vertical green walls are a striking, creative concept that can transform your yard into a functional living space. Since you’re working upwards, they don’t take up much area, and when you add some greenery, it can breathe a sense of nature into your outdoor environment.
When building the wall itself, it’s best to go wide rather than tall so you won’t have to reach up to water the plants. Decide on a durable material that requires minimum upkeep, like metal, cedar, or white oak. However, approach it so that it goes in line with your garden’s overall style.
Finish your green wall off with some vibrant plants. Consider textures and colors that go with the green wall design. How about evergreen ferns or something that really makes it stand out, like common bluebells; it’s up to you how far you want to take things.
Add a Water Feature
Bring some tranquility to your backyard with a water feature. Your garden doesn’t have to be huge to add one; a statue or bubbling fountain can be easily inserted into tiny corners. Wall fountains could also be a good option to save space while providing soothing sound in the background.
Thinking bigger? A garden pond is an excellent idea if you’ve got enough space. You could plant flowers around it, add some lilypads and fish, and even build a walk-out deck with a seating area at the end of it.
Photo credit: Tile Merchant Ireland
However, if you really want to make your own paradise out back, a stream running through your yard could be a wonderful addition. You might choose to include pebbles or a little waterfall outlined by rock boulders; it would embody the peaceful charm of a Japanese garden.
Be Innovative With Your Garden!
We’ve shown you some ways to be innovative; now go spruce up your back garden. Experiment with some ideas; don’t be afraid to try something new. Make sure to make it your own by giving it a personal touch.
For more innovative ideas on home improvement and budget-friendly upgrades, visit our blog. Discover a wealth of resources, tips, and inspiration to transform your living space inside and out. Start exploring today!
