Once the May Long weekend has hit, it’s usually the signal that summer is on the way! And the last few days in Toronto it definitely feels like we have skipped Spring and we’re right into summer. Is your backyard ready?
Over the last few years the backyard has become an extension of the inside of our home. Many of us spend so much time out there, entertaining, dining, playing and just relaxing so it makes sense that we naturally want to make it as comfortable and beautiful as possible. With a little bit of attention you can really transform your backyard into your very own retreat.
Don’t worry, refreshing your backyard space doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg! We’ve rounded up some easy tips and ideas to help you update your outdoor space this season that’ll make a big impact without breaking the bank.
Plan Your Ultimate Outdoor Space
First things first, you want to plan out your backyard retreat and make it all your own. Consider how you use your backyard space today and how you would want to use it. Think about how much space you have to work with, how you want to use your space and when you think you will be out there. Think about who lives in your home with you (kids, pets etc.) and how they would use the space too. Also consider any hobbies you may have, like gardening or cooking, so that you create the ultimate outdoor oasis that’s perfect just for you.
Depending on your goals for your outdoor space and how you want to enjoy your backyard, plan for distinct areas for outdoor dining, lounging and relaxing, cooking, a bar area, storage and even play areas for the kids if needed. By planning ahead you can create an extension of your home outdoors that you and your family can enjoy all summer long.
Update Your Patio Furniture
Let’s start with furniture. Take a look at your current patio furniture. Do you have enough chairs for a cozy sitting area? Do you have a dining table that fits the whole family? Is your patio furniture in good condition? If the answer is no, consider investing in some new patio furniture like a nice outdoor sofa, sectional and even dining set if you plan to eat outdoors. Or take on a DIY project and re-finish your existing furniture.
If your furniture is in good condition, possibly look at updating things like the cushions or the umbrella to just freshen things up.
Refresh Your Flooring
Look down and start with your outdoor flooring. You can add new patio stones, a new deck or sometimes all you need to do is give your current deck or patio a good power wash. Consider adding a new outdoor rug to add some warmth and style to the space too. You can make a big impact to your outdoor living area by just adding in a new outdoor rug. The good news is that outdoor rugs are fairly inexpensive so it will feel like a really big change without having to spend a lot!
Add some new accessories
A great way to refresh your outdoor space is by adding in some new accessories like cushions, pillows, lanterns and trays. Before you go out and start buying things, think about the look and feeling you are after. Do you want a coastal look? A modern lounge? Or maybe something more tropical? Think of some new colours and patterns you can add in and carry it through your space to make it feel pulled together.
Get Creative with Your Landscaping and Planters
For an easy update, add in some new planters to your outdoor living space with some lush greenery and vibrant colours. If you don’t have much of a green thumb, try using ferns, palm trees and other green plants that will last all summer long and are low maintenance.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves or hire a professional to help out, landscaping can make a huge impact to your outdoor space. What’s great about landscaping is that you don’t need to do it all at once and if you have a plan you can add on every year. We recommend thinking about your privacy needs in the backyard, your fencing and how you could use landscaping to help with that too.
Add some shade
If your backyard is in full sun you will want to create some areas with shade so you can enjoy yourselves out there all summer long. You can add shade to your space through a variety of ways including a new umbrella, pergola or a modern awning.
Add Lighting
Look up and look around – do you have enough light? Aside from creating ambiance, lighting is a great way to extend your time in your outdoor space into the evenings. You can add lighting through garden lighting, string lights, lanterns, and even a fire pit.
We hope we gave you some tips and ideas to help your transform your backyard into your very own outdoor oasis you can enjoy all summer long!
