Creative DIY Ideas To Transform Your Outdoor Space Into A Sanctuary
Nothing renews the soul quite like spending time in the fresh air, drinking in the scents of a freshly mowed lawn or flowers in bloom. It’s also about being with the ones we love, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, which brings forth a real “joie de vivre.”
It’s just about summertime and the best part is that we can move our celebrations and gatherings outdoors. Backyards, garden rooms, decks and patios have become extensions of our home. What better way to spend a leisurely weekend than to enjoy a cookout or soiree with family and friends outside?
In this blog, we explore easy DIY projects to reinvigorate your patio or deck to create that perfect outdoor retreat! Best of all, many of these great ideas can be done on a shoestring budget. We went to our interior designers at Designer’s Edge to help you set the stage for the ultimate backyard space this summer. A backyard makeover doesn’t have to be costly to be inviting - Here’s how!
FIRE PIT
Nothing adds more ambience on a balmy summer evening than a fire pit. The flickering flames, the crackling sounds, and the soft lighting encourages people to gather around. You can build your own fire pit using inexpensive materials like bricks or concrete blocks. When choosing the location of your fire pit, check your local building codes for any restrictions.
How To Create A Fire Pit Courtesy of Designer's Edge:
- Choose a Location
- Gather Materials
- Lay the Base
- Arrange the Stones or Bricks
- Build the Wall
- Secure the Stones or Bricks
- Add a Fire Ring or Insert
- Test for Stability
- Finish with Gravel or Sand
DIY FURNITURE
Look for used or inexpensive second hand furniture at yard sales, thrift stores or online marketplaces. You might even find old chairs, tables, or benches that are no longer in use in your garage. You can refurbish old furniture with a fresh coat of paint or some new cushions to give it a brand-new look.
STRING LIGHTS
Lighting has the power to enhance your outdoor retreat. String lights can add accent lighting to trees, the patio or backyard, or can illuminate a walking path. You can find affordable string lights online, at home improvement stores or at garage sales. Opt for outdoor-rated LED string lights, which are often more energy-efficient and durable than traditional bulbs. You can also use solar-powered string lights.
DIY PATHWAYS
Create pathways using inexpensive materials like gravel, mulch, or stepping stones. This can add visual interest to your outdoor space and make it easier to navigate.
OUTDOOR DECOR
Incorporate outdoor decor such as lanterns, pillows, or wall art to personalize your patio or backyard. You can often find affordable decor items at discount stores, online or make your own using materials you already have.
POTS AND PLANTERS
Shop in your own home or garage and dust off unused pots, buckets, or containers that can be painted and used as planters for flowers, herbs, or small shrubs. You can also get creative with old tires, tin cans, or wooden crates for unique and budget-friendly planters.
TIN CANS AND JARS
Save those empty tin cans and glass jars as they too can be painted and given new life as lanterns, candle holders, or vases for fresh or dried flowers. Seeing plain old tin cans or jars transformed in innovative ways into beautiful decorative accessories … well, what’s better than that? They add a charming touch to any outdoor space and are easy to customize with decorative accents.
AREA RUGS
Often overlooked, area rugs can convert your patio into a stylish and inviting space. Look for budget-friendly outdoor rugs at discount stores or consider using inexpensive indoor/outdoor carpeting cut to size.
PERGOLA OR ARBOR
Visit hardware stores or thrift shops for lumber remnants, which saves money. Build a pergola or arbor to provide shade and structure to your outdoor space. You can go online for step by step instructions.
RAISED GARDEN BEDS
Build raised garden beds using lumber or recycled materials like pallets. Raised beds make gardening easier, define your space and add visual interest to your backyard.
WOODEN PALLETS
Wooden pallets can be up-cycled into a variety of outdoor furniture pieces, such as sofas, tables, or even vertical gardens. Sand them down and give them a coat of outdoor paint or sealant to protect them.
LADDERS
Don’t throw out your old ladders. Wooden ladders can be repurposed as plant stands, trellises, or shelving units for outdoor storage. Paint them in a weather-resistant paint and add hooks or shelves to customize them for your space.
OUTDOOR MOVIE THEATRE
Have you dreamed of an outdoor theatre? Dream no more. Create your own outdoor movie theatre by hanging a white sheet or using a projector screen. Set up comfortable seating, install outdoor speakers, grab the popcorn and volia, you are guaranteed a fun and memorable movie night.
OUTDOOR BAR
What man hasn’t wanted to add an outdoor bar or beverage station? It's easy using pallets, reclaimed wood, or a simple countertop. Stock it with your favorite drinks and accessories to create a chic and functional entertaining area. Don’t forget music!
A Great Tip: Facebook Marketplace is one of the best places to find good stuff for your home and garden, and patio furniture and materials.