Having a great outdoor space is as crucial as having a well-arranged home interior. Having your own backyard gives you easy access to the outdoors, and it’s healthy for you.
For one, spending an appropriate amount of time under the sun is a natural source of vitamin D. Vitamin D keeps your bones and muscles strong. According to Forbes, research also suggests that it can improve mental health. Spending time outdoors reduces stress and decreases symptoms of depression.
On top of the health benefits, having a nice backyard extends your living space. It gives you a space to entertain guests and celebrate important occasions right at your doorsteps. A backyard with a pool can be a great staycation destination, and you don’t even have to spend any money.
You can also treat your backyard as an investment. Sprucing up your backyard increases the value of your home. A functional backyard with excellent features is attractive to most buyers in case you plan on selling.
For all these reasons and more, if you have an empty backyard standing next to your house, it’s time to do some work.
Build a garden
One way to utilize your backyard is by starting your own garden. You can have a garden with ornamental plants or do one filled with vegetables.
Having your own vegetable garden allows you to harvest fresh produce right at your home. Studies say that gardening and growing your own food positively affect your mental and physical health.
Growing your own vegetables in your backyard saves you from buying in the grocery; you are also assured that you are eating fertilizer-free and organic products. Harvesting can also feel rewarding and satisfying, thus improving your mental health and overall state of happiness. It can also be a fun activity for the entire family.
Starting a garden does not require a large space. Few inches of space will do. Wall planters are a great way to start a vertical garden. This is a great tip for those who have a small outdoor space in the city.
Build a patio
If you’re not into gardening, you can turn your backyard into a patio or an outdoor extension of your living room. It can be costly for some who want to go all out; others who wish to save can do a DIY patio.
All you need are some bricks, pavers, or flagstones to start as your patio’s base. Level your patio base by using some gravel and sand, and start arranging your chosen material on top of it. Create a pattern that you want for the patio.
Once you’re done with the base, add in comfortable furniture like outdoor couches and tables. Spruce your outdoor seats up by putting comfortable pillows and using lovely outdoor cushion covers. These covers will dictate the vibe that you are going for in your outdoor space. Add in some ornamental plants if you wish to add a more relaxing vibe.
Aside from a seating area, you can also put a dining area. Alfresco dining is perfect for small gatherings with family or friends. Throw in an outdoor barbecue grill, and you’re set for an amazing barbecue day.
Add lights
Light makes everything brighter and better. Your backyard can use a little help from lighting, too. Sunlight is your outdoor space’s best light source, but come nighttime, you need the help of artificial lighting to make it magical.
Add some solar pathway lights around your backyard. From the name itself, this type of light uses solar energy to light up at night. There are also solar accent lights that you can install on your fence to surround your space with soft light. String lights are great in giving your outdoor space that starry night vibe and a romantic feel.
Accessorize
We’ve got the comfortable seats and the fantastic lights covered. Now it’s time to accessorize and add in some more stuff that will make your space more enjoyable space. If you’re into a more chill lifestyle, add a hammock. Or put a firepit and put your comfy seats around it. Once you’re set up, share some stories, food, and drinks around the fire and spend a lovely evening.
If you have an LCD projector and a movie-lover, you can set up an outdoor cinema, too. It’s a great addition to your home; it saves you from buying tickets and going through traffic to visit the theater.
Build what suits your lifestyle
In building your outdoor space, it’s best to consider what best suits you and your family’s lifestyle. After all, it is your home, and you are creating an enjoyable space that is beneficial for you and your family.
