5 Design essentials every backyard should have
At this point in time, most of us who are lucky enough to have a backyard to go out to are probably tired of looking at it. We’ve been spending more time at home than ever before and both its interior and exterior have become bland. However, I bet you ten bucks that most people who live in city apartments are probably thinking of investing in a small house with a backyard full of lush greenery outlined with the traditional white picket fence once this whole shebang with the pandemic is over. This article is for you urban folks, as well as for those who are thinking of redecorating their same ol’ backyards to make them appealing again.
1. Outdoor grill
First of all, it is of utmost importance to establish what your backyard actually is. It is not just a patch of grass with a seating area. Backyards are always so much more than just one thing. It is a place where we can be alone and at peace, eat burgers, get together with our friends and families, eat burgers, play games, eat burgers, honor traditions, eat burgers, celebrate important moments and last but not least, eat burgers. Can you guess what this first backyard essential is? That’s right — an outdoor grill. Having an outdoor grill will allow you to create the ultimate outdoor fun experience without having to load up your car and haul everything to the local park or beach.
2. Cozy seating area
During my thirty-something years on this green earth, I’ve seen too many makeshift backyards to know that some people don’t really think that a cozy seating area is a backyard necessity. Trust me, your guests don’t think so. Backyard seats should be inviting and comfy, otherwise, you won’t enjoy your time spent outside. So think fluffy long chairs, multipurpose poufs, colorful lawn seating sets, hammocks, and pillows.
3. GREEN!
If you don’t have a proper garden take your house plants out. Get yourself some rattan or macrame hanging planters, or regular wooden ones with feet, and dot your backyard with plants to give it some garden, or even jungle vibes. You can also use plants to cover up any unsightly or unpleasant things in your yard, such as chipped paint on your fences, pissing patches of grass, etc.
4. Arbors or patio covers
This comes in particularly handy if you like to enjoy your rainy days outside like myself. However, this is also the most expensive item on this list. I mean building a roof in this economy… The good news is, you don’t have to do it right away to enjoy some rainy summer days. One or two large patio umbrellas will solve your problem right away.
5. Lighting
Proper lighting can do miracles to the atmosphere. If you like dining al fresco or spending quiet evenings gazing at the stars, soft market lights or discreet pendant lighting is exactly what you need in your backyard.
In the end, here are some honorable mentions that didn’t make it to the main list, but should also be considered: sun tent, fire pit, sprinklers, bird feeders, cocktail area, Bluetooth surround speakers…
