- Basic Backyard Design Principles<\/a><\/li>
- 15 Awesome Backyard Landscaping Ideas<\/a><\/li>
- When to Call Landscaping Professionals<\/a><\/li>
- FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Basic Backyard Design Principles<\/h2>
No matter the size of a space, it should be fashionable and functional. Keep the following design principles<\/a> in mind, and you\u2019ll achieve the right balance:<\/p>
- Follow a base plan<\/strong>. A base plan lets you know where your property begins and ends, as well as the locations of your utility lines, walkways and driveway, and other features.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Consider scale<\/strong>. Installing plants that are too large or too small for your yard will affect its curb appeal.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Frame your house with trees<\/strong>, but be careful not to block the view of the house. Choose a compact tree shape<\/a>.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Balance the landscape<\/strong>. Don\u2019t overplant in one area while neglecting other areas.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Create a focal point<\/strong> with a water feature, fire pit, ornamental, or statue \u2014 scaled to your space, of course.<\/li> <\/ul>
15 Awesome Backyard Landscaping Ideas<\/h2>
1. Use Fine-Textured Plants<\/h3>
![\"textured](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/textured-plant.jpg\")
Photo Credit: OlliUlli<\/a> \/ Canva Pro \/ License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Give your backyard a sizable look with large accent pieces, such as oversized planters, and fine-textured plants<\/a> \u2014 pretty sedge, tall verbena, and baby\u2019s breath. Spiky, low-growing succulents<\/a> like blue chalk sticks are also good for small gardens.<\/p>
2. Create an Outdoor Venue<\/h3>
![\"backyard](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/outdoor-venue-e1599656245528-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Nyplanting<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Whether it\u2019s an alfresco dining area, a reading nook, a play place, or a hot tub or sauna, give your small backyard purpose. Doing so helps this realm feel more like an addition, rather than a subtraction of space \u2014 an extension from the inside, out.<\/p>
To establish such a \u201croom,\u201d simulate floors, walls, and ceilings using a mix of lawn space, flower beds, shrubbery, and trees. Define \u201crooms\u201d further with a pergola<\/a>, fencing, small patio, pavers, string lights, and outdoor furniture.<\/p>
3. Maximize Multifunctionality<\/h3>
![\"retaining](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/retaining-wall-seating-e1599656396643-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Peter Griffin<\/a> \/ Needpix<\/figcaption><\/figure> Make your hardscaping pull double duty as d\u00e9cor and storage. That stone retaining wall? It can serve as extra seating, too. And that wooden bench? It\u2019s the perfect place to keep holiday decorations, tools, potting soil, toys, and anything else you need to hide from view.<\/p>
4. Embrace Vertical Space<\/h3>
![\"vertical](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/vertical-planters-4-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jon Tyson<\/a> \/ Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure> The perfect weekend DIY project? Transform that blank wall trellis or backyard fencing into an urban garden<\/a> of its own. Pick up a set of vertical planters online or at your local store, and fill them with colorful flowers or grow an herb garden. You can also repurpose empty plastic containers, bottles, or tin cans to be used as planters.<\/p>
For more garden ideas, think wall art, and install a living still life, such as this vertical garden<\/a>.<\/p>
5. Take the Plunge<\/h3>
![\"backyard](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/plunge-pool-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Taylor Simpson<\/a> \/ Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure> Make your staycation dreams a reality by constructing a small plunge pool out back. Able to take on just about any shape and size necessary to fit into your small space, plunge pools can be built right off your patio, deck, or even the wall of your house.<\/p>
Water gardens<\/a> are another option for a more tranquil vibe.<\/p>
6. Install a Fire Pit<\/h3>
![\"backyard-fire-pit\"](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/backyard-fire-pit-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Robert<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Besides providing warmth on a cool, fall evening, fire pits<\/a> also create a natural gathering spot. Assemble friends and family for ghost stories and s\u2019mores or wine and cheese. Or, light it purely for added ambience.<\/p>
7. Hang String Lights<\/h3>
![\"string](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/string-lights-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jason Tester Guerrilla Futures<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ CC BY-ND 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> When the sun goes down, it shouldn\u2019t stop the party. Use lighting<\/a> to set an overall mood, brighten the space, or accent your favorite backyard feature \u2014 think patio, fire pit, or dining area. Available in an array of colors, shapes, and styles (solar or electric), these lights can be strung overhead, wrapped around tree trunks, or draped over garden hedges and shrubs.<\/p>
8. Forge a Path<\/h3>
![\"garden](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/pathway-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: leeyiutung<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> To enjoy the different \u201crooms\u201d in your backyard, construct a pathway that leads to each one. Based on your design aesthetic, choose a material (concrete pavers<\/a>, crushed gravel, or wood pallets, for example) that best fits the space. This will not only add beauty, but also help prevent accidental slips and falls and keep shoes free of mud.<\/p>
9. Add Built-in Seating<\/h3>
![\"seating](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Untitled-design-4-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: hikesterson<\/a> \/ Canva Pro \/ License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Chairs and benches can take up a lot of space, which can cause problems if you don\u2019t want to bump into them while navigating your yard. By installing built-in seating around the perimeter of the deck or yard, you can improve entertaining possibilities without taking up any extra space.<\/p>
Built-in seating also adds a layer of comfort to your small space. Imagine placing seating in a retaining wall<\/a> surrounded by flowers. The perfect place to go outside with coffee or tea in the morning, or read a book!<\/p>
10. Create Designated Quarters<\/h3>
![\"lawn-flower-cottage-backyard-garden-flowers\"](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/lawn-flower-cottage-backyard-garden-flowers-1055231-pxhere.com-1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere<\/a> \/ CC0 1.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> When designing outdoor areas, you want to create an intimate space, or series of spaces, that are distinct yet unified. If you have a small backyard, make the most out of it by using fences to divide it into designated quarters. One section could be for lounging, another could be your garden, a third could be your flowers, etc.<\/p>
11. Create a Focal Point<\/h3>
![\"Focal](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/landscape-architecture-lawn-sidewalk-asphalt-walkway-457693-pxhere.com-1-1.jpg\")
11. Create a Focal Point<\/figcaption><\/figure> You can\u2019t turn a small backyard into a palace courtyard, but you can make it feel like one. Instead of grass, put down pebbles<\/a> and create a focal point in the middle of the yard. Whether you choose a stone planter with flowers, a beautiful fountain, or an inviting birdbath, picking a good focal point can turn your ordinary garden into an extraordinary one. <\/p>
12. Add an Outdoor Water Feature<\/h3>
![\"fountain\"](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/tree-lawn-pond-backyard-italy-garden-528861-pxhere.com-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Pxhere<\/a> \/ CC0 1.0<\/a> <\/figcaption><\/figure> Whether you want to go big with a landscape design or keep it simple with a DIY garden project, adding a water feature<\/a> can turn your outdoor space into a beautiful oasis. Some examples of water features you can add are:<\/p>
- Pondless waterfalls and streams<\/li> <\/ol>
- Fountains<\/li> <\/ol>
- Spillway bowls<\/li> <\/ol>
13. Add a Vegetable Garden<\/h3>
![\"Metal](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/rsz_support_your_veg.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Patrick<\/a> \/ CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> You don\u2019t need a large area to have a vegetable garden. All you need is a location that can provide adequate sunlight, access to a water source, and rich, fertile soil. Doing this will help you produce healthy vegetables, fruits<\/a>, and herbs without going to the grocery store.<\/p>
Additionally, consider using a fence; deer and other animals in the community love your vegetables just as much as you do, and you don\u2019t want to give them a food supply and ruin all your hard work.<\/p>
14. Build an Outdoor Kitchen<\/h3>
![\"outdoor](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/arcwind-OKp-rhSWE4-unsplash-e1625241492468.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Arcwind<\/a> \/ Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure> Besides being a perfect space to entertain your guests, an outdoor kitchen<\/a> lowers your energy bills, adds value to your home, and saves you money on restaurant meals. Your backyard space might be small, but that shouldn\u2019t lessen your will to grill.<\/p>
An outdoor kitchen costs anywhere from $32.50 to $100 per square foot. <\/strong>Total costs start around $3,000<\/strong> and go up from there.<\/p>
15. Utilize the Front Yard<\/h3>
![\"Frontyard](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/netherlands-gc8abb7bda_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Queque<\/a> \/ Pixabay<\/figcaption><\/figure> Though the backyard has many desirable aspects (such as privacy for get-togethers), sometimes you just don\u2019t have enough space. Thus, look to your front yard<\/a> for some extra square footage, taking advantage of your outdoor space and joining in the hustle and bustle of life on your street.<\/p>
Incorporate a reading nook under a front yard tree, add an outdoor swing, or group a few chairs together to create an intimate seating area for conversations. <\/p>
When to Call Landscaping Professionals<\/h2>
If you don\u2019t have a green thumb and would much rather hire someone to execute those backyard landscaping ideas you have in mind, there are plenty of local landscapers<\/a> dedicated to enhancing your property\u2019s value and appeal.<\/p>
A crew will come out to survey your space, and then develop a custom hardscape and landscape design plan, including plant selection, outdoor lighting, fire and water features, irrigation solutions, and even routine lawn care.<\/p>
A welcoming outdoor paradise isn\u2019t dependent on size. It\u2019s all about using the space you have to its full potential.<\/p>
FAQs<\/h2>
Is it Cheaper to Landscape Yourself?<\/h3>
The cheapest way to landscape a backyard is to do it yourself, particularly if you already have the tools and skills needed for the job. If you are capable of DIY landscaping, you don\u2019t have to pay to hire a professional landscaping service to do the work for you.<\/p>
In some cases, DIY may not be the cheapest way to go. If a task requires tools you don\u2019t have, you\u2019ll have to buy them. (Although, renting large equipment for a half or a whole day is possible as long as you have a way to transport it.) And if you\u2019re learning a new skill, it will take more time or money due to mistakes or the learning curve.<\/p>
If you\u2019re a DIY novice, the costs of tools, transportation, or a lack of skill can cost more than hiring a pro.<\/p>
What is the Least Expensive Landscaping Material?<\/h3>
Pea gravel. It\u2019s typically used like gravel for walkways, patios, and other places where foot traffic is high. Pea gravel<\/a> is very useful in landscaping projects because it\u2019s a smooth stone. In fact, it\u2019s also one of the cheapest stones you can use in landscaping.<\/p>
Pea gravel costs<\/a> $25 to $67 per cubic yard<\/strong> for smaller projects, averaging to $46 per cubic yard.<\/strong><\/p>
How Much Should I Budget for Landscaping?<\/h3>
Landscaping costs $15 per square foot<\/strong>, on average. To have a pro landscaper work on your project, expect to spend $5 to $24 per square foot<\/strong>, depending on how much you want landscaped. Below are several examples of how much you would pay for various projects, including materials and pro landscaper fees:<\/p>
- Spillway bowls<\/li> <\/ol>
- Fountains<\/li> <\/ol>
- Pondless waterfalls and streams<\/li> <\/ol>
- Create a focal point<\/strong> with a water feature, fire pit, ornamental, or statue \u2014 scaled to your space, of course.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Balance the landscape<\/strong>. Don\u2019t overplant in one area while neglecting other areas.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Frame your house with trees<\/strong>, but be careful not to block the view of the house. Choose a compact tree shape<\/a>.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Consider scale<\/strong>. Installing plants that are too large or too small for your yard will affect its curb appeal.<\/li> <\/ul>
- 15 Awesome Backyard Landscaping Ideas<\/a><\/li>