13 Extra-Cool Things to Do With a Backyard
If you’re bored of the typical lawn-and-patio backyard,
then maybe it’s time to add some fun to your outdoor living space. From
surfboard showers to freestanding bathtubs, here’s how you can put some
character back into your backyard.
1. Add a built-in mosaic bench.
This gorgeous built-in mosaic bench reminds me of the whimsical designs
of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona. A piece like this would
be a welcome change from standard backyard furniture that needs to be
protected from rain and snow.
2. Create a vine-covered party pad. Make
a lush, jungle oasis by training climbing vines over garden walls and
stringing up rows of glowing lights. A long, low outdoor fireplace is
the perfect spot for gathering around, while weatherproof modern chairs
add a colorful touch.
3. Plan a secret seating area.
Follow a path lined with bamboo plantings to a hidden seating area and
discover the perfect place to kick back and relax. The wicker lounge
chair provides another layer of privacy when you’re seated, making this
an ideal hideaway.
4. Mimic ancient ruins. A
tiny, lush meadow leads to a secluded garden room. Partial stone walls
look as if they have been crumbling there for centuries, fire-filled
stone urns mark the entrance, and an antique burbling fountain provides
soothing sounds.
5. Add a lava rock shower. Yes,
this outdoor shower is in Hawaii, but that doesn’t mean you can’t snag a
similar look wherever you live. The lava rock wall provides a natural
backdrop for the outdoor shower, while tropical plantings, a teak towel
rack and wide stepping stones add appealing texture and a resort-like
vibe.
6. Or how about a surfboard shower? Resurrect a favorite old surfboard by turning it into a unique outdoor shower.
7. Use colorful tile. Spice up your outdoor kitchen with a colorful patchwork of tiles. If you don’t have an outdoor kitchen, a patchwork-tiled table or bench would be just as eye catching.
8. Set up an outdoor tub. Could
there be anything more freeing than bathing in the great outdoors? If
privacy is a concern, a roll-down screen can help you feel less exposed
but still connected with the surrounding landscape.
8. Capture a dragon instead.
Bathing in the yard not your cup of tea? Then make way for a dragon, or
any other creature sculpture, in a vintage tub to create a
statement-making fountain.
10. Set up a dining table. Add a dining table and chairs to your backyard to encourage your family to dine al fresco.
11. Lay down a stone path. Make
the journey through your backyard enjoyable by laying stone mosaic
paths instead of the typical concrete or stepping stones.
12. Arrange a living room right on the lawn. Why
stick with furniture only on the patio or deck? Create an outdoor
living room that really embraces the outdoors by positioning your
furniture in an area of your yard planted with grass or a
foot-traffic-friendly ground cover.
Tell us: Are you itching to make changes to your backyard? If you could wave a magic wand and change anything about your current yard, what would you do?