In the wake of the past few years… Outdoor living spaces have surged in popularity!
And it’s no surprise why.
Now that you’ve had a taste of what it’s like to spend more time at home… It only makes sense why you want to spice up your backyard!
The more enjoyment you can get out of your home, the better.
Hence, why you’re searching for some backyard design ideas!
We’ll get to some excellent ideas for inspiration in this article… But first, let’s discuss what it takes to get the best backyard design.
Quick Links:
How to Design a Beautiful Backyard
Everyone has to start somewhere. And while it can feel overwhelming at first… There’s no need to be!
Here, we’ll outline three options to get your backyard layout design. Your skill level and confidence will determine which option is best for you.
We’ll begin with complete DIY!
DIY Backyard Design Plans
If you’re an avid DIYer… It only seems natural you’ll want to take backyard design into your own hands, too!
Just a quick word of warning… The process might not be as easy as it looks!
There’s actually quite a lot you must keep in mind when it comes to landscape backyard design. You’re not focusing on a single feature of the space, but how all the elements work together. This requires a different thought process!
But if you do have a knack for design… You might be up for the challenge.
If so, here’s a backyard design trick to keep in mind.
Study the principles of design behind classical gardens. These are tried and true designs that work well, no matter what your space looks like. (The classics are classics for a reason!)
But if you think you’ll need more assistance… Let’s look at the next tier.
Want to bring your idea to life?
Online Backyard Home Design Company
If you want a more curated experience… A full-service landscape design company might be right up your alley!
While there are some differences here and there… Most of these options offer a remote experience for your outdoor living design.
Take Yardzen , for example.
You’ll begin with sending them photos of your current backyard. Then, their team of expert designers and horticulturalists will get to work creating a unique home backyard design.
You’ll receive a virtual render of your future design… And work with the designers to nail down the details of your project. Hardscaping, patios, pavers, and greenery will all be discussed at this point!
Once you are happy with how things are progressing… Yardzen will introduce you to a vetted local contractor to complete the project.
Overall, this is a streamlined, hands-on process that’s tailored to your needs! (It’s also great if you have a moderate budget.)
However, you might want a single point of contact to take the entire project off your hands.
If so, you might be on the hunt for a landscape designer to design the perfect backyard.
Professional Landscape Designer
If you want a beautiful backyard design with the least amount of energy on your part… A landscape designer could be the right fit!
An experienced landscape designer will know exactly how to take your backyard to the next level… And incorporate elements unique to your space.
However, not all landscape designers are created equal! It’s important to heavily vet someone before hiring them. (Just like any other contractor!)
You want to ensure your landscape designer is punctual, truly experienced, has excellent reviews, and is completely upfront with pricing.
Also note that hiring a landscape designer will generally cost more than a remote, full-service option.
So if you find someone who checks all the boxes and you’ve got the budget… This is a near-foolproof way to get an excellent backyard design!
And to give you an example of what an experienced landscape designer looks like… Mike Pyle and Paul Keyes are fantastic professionals to look into.
No matter what option you choose… Let’s look to some backyard design ideas for inspiration!
12 Great Backyard Design Ideas
As you begin to design your outdoor space… Naturally, you’ll want some design ideas at the ready!
You can’t decide how to plan out your space if you don’t know the options, after all!
The following section will outline both large backyard design ideas and small backyard design ideas… But if you see something you like, we have something for you to keep in mind!
Before jumping in headfirst on a design idea… It’s smart to consult with a professional designer. They’ll be able to best assess what will work in your space.
Without further ado, let’s review the best backyard design ideas!
1. Pergolas, Gazebos, & Other Covered Structures
Pergolas, gazebos, and other covered structures are an evergreen backyard design idea!
They’re a stunning addition to your space… And serve multiple functional purposes.
They can easily be used as an outdoor kitchen roof, to keep your island safe from the elements.
On the same token, a well-designed seating area is perfect under cover! A gazebo or roof will provide full shade… While a pergola will allow some light to filter in. (Also consider adding curtains to your pergola for a boho look!)
Covered structures become the focal point of your outdoor living space. So it’s essential to ensure the design is just right!
However, you don’t just have to use a covered structure for a seating area or outdoor kitchen.
Some homeowners will use a pergola as a connection point between two spaces.
Let’s say you have a garden area that’s disconnected from the rest of your backyard. A well-placed pergola could create a beautiful connection between the two areas!
Speaking of gardens…
2. Ideas for Backyard Garden Design
Backyard gardens have always been a popular feature… And it’s increased dramatically over the past few years!
If you’re looking to dip your toes in the water… An edible landscape garden could be an excellent option!
A carefully-crafted garden can retain the beauty of the most impressive landscape design… And also give you some culinary benefits, while you’re at it!
Herbs like rosemary are an attractive and fairly low-maintenance addition to consider. (Purple basil offers a nice pop of aromatic color, too!)
Edible flowers could add some stunning color variance… And same goes for rainbow chard!
Don’t forget about shrubbery, either! A blueberry bush provides delicious flavor in the summer… And beautiful foliage all year-round!
Point is, an edible garden can dovetail perfectly into your outdoor space. It just requires some extra planning!
And do keep in mind… Any edible plants you grow will require even more attention than standard landscape plantings.
If you don’t have time to maintain a vegetable garden (even a small one)… A garden backyard design won’t be the best idea for your lifestyle.
Let’s take a look at a simple backyard design idea that might be more your speed!
3. Outdoor Backyard Design with a Café Feel
If your primary goal is to use your backyard for relaxation… There are few things better than creating a bistro, café vibe in your space!
A wrought iron outdoor bar table (and matching chairs!) will immediately bring a coffee shop feel to your backyard.
Whether your preferred brew is pour over, French press, or percolated… Each sip will be caffeinated bliss while seated at your own backyard café!
With your favorite book in hand… The entire morning could easily drift away.
Or if you prefer not to enjoy your coffee solo… Invite a loved one to the table for some stimulating conversation!
And the best part about this idea?
Even if you have a small backyard… This concept is effortless to incorporate!
Most bistro-style tables are only meant to seat two. So there’s only a small space being taken up in your backyard!
This exterior backyard design might sound great to you… But maybe you want a more private setting in your space.
4. Screens for Backyard Privacy
Don’t want prying eyes in your backyard?
Getting an outdoor screen is the simple solution for your outdoor living space!
Not only does it allow your backyard space to feel more private… It also creates a more intimate feel for your guests!
Most options are easy to install… And come in just about any aesthetic you could imagine!
For example, you might consider a metal privacy screen if you want some light to filter through. Often, they have ornamental designs to further heighten the look of your space.
If you’re looking for full coverage… Wooden screens made from planks will likely be a better choice for you.
But even if you’re not seeking more privacy… There are plenty of cool backyard design ideas left to consider!
5. Outdoor Lighting Design for Backyard
As the sun sets, there’s no reason to take the party indoors. That’s what outdoor lighting is for!
Plus, if you have an outdoor kitchen or bar… Lighting those areas will allow you to grill and serve up drinks all night long!
Also consider lighting seating areas, or anywhere your guests may gather. If you have a covered structure… Pendant lights, string lights, or recessed lighting is always an excellent choice!
Additionally… Consider lighting all areas of your backyard. Walkways and steps deserve to be showcased, too. (Plus, it’s safer!)
Don’t ignore artistic lighting, either! This is especially important in the world of backyard design.
If you want your space to look as captivating and refined as possible… Illuminate backdrops with interesting textures, or incorporate unique lighting fixtures in your space.
Outdoor lighting is also an excellent way to draw attention to this next backyard landscaping idea!
6. Flower Garden Design
Flower gardens are is an ever-popular design choice for your backyard space.
They’re beautiful, emit a lovely aroma, and enrich the aesthetic of your space! What’s not to like?
Plus, there’s a near-limitless amount of species to choose from. Hydrangeas, lilacs, roses, gardenias, and marigolds are just a few on the list.
As far as design goes, flower beds will be the most common option. But also don’t be afraid to pepper flower plants throughout your backyard. This will create a sense of continuity that connects all elements in your backyard.
Some flower varieties also grow well on a trellis, which creates a stunning and dramatic look!
And to keep things easy maintenance-wise, perennials are your best friend!
If you’re open to expanding your horizons… Ornamental grasses and succulents also provide a lovely, low-maintenance look.
All said and done… Flower gardens are a fantastic addition to enhance the beauty of your outdoor area.
But what if you’re looking for a backyard landscape design that also keeps you active?
7. Swimming Pool Backyard Design Ideas
Backyard design ideas with a pool can create a luxurious aesthetic in your space!
These days, you’re not limited to the standard round pool design. In fact, the sky is the limit!
One of the most impressive ways to design your pool is to use decorative tile as the liner. This technique will make your backyard area feel like part of a palace!
A newer spin on pool design is making the pool coping (edge) sit flush with the water. (And by extension, the ground.)
This creates a stunning effect where your pool looks like a natural body of water. And if you color the lining of your pool a blue-green hue, it will look reminiscent of a real pond!
Playing off of the nature theme… Also consider putting an asymmetrical pool off to the side, surrounded by greenery. This will feel like a private watering hole you stumbled upon in the woods!
And if you need a small backyard pool design idea… A plunge pool is an excellent option!
Let’s get to our next cool backyard design.
Complete Your backyard
8. Backyard Design Ideas with Fire Pit
There’s nothing quite like cozying up to a warm fire… Especially when it’s in your own backyard!
While you could certainly surround your fire pit with some adirondack chairs and call it a day… You might be looking for more!
In recent years… Modern backyard design ideas with a fire pit have become more abundant!
Rather than the standard round fire pit, you might prefer a rectangular or square fire pit table. Oftentimes, these are made with concrete… Offering a sleek and upscale aesthetic.
No need to limit yourself to a fire pit, either! Outdoor fireplaces offer an even more refined look to your backyard space.
And here’s another backyard fire pit design idea for you… Consider installing a seating wall surrounding the feature. This design feature not only looks beautiful, it also creates intimacy in the space.
But if you’re looking for a way to work with what you already have… You’ll love this DIY backyard landscaping design idea!
9. Shed Makeover
Gone are the days when your shed is just used to store all the things you forgot you had.
It’s time your tired, old shed got a facelift! (And a new lease on life!)
Many homeowners are turning to DIY shed makeovers to get the most out of their backyard… Which of course, also makes the design far better!
Not sure what you would use it for?
A home gym, home office, art studio, tea house, small movie theater, private library, or game room are just a few transformation ideas.
From the outside… Give your shed a fresh coat of paint in a color that will compliment your space. Add a window or two… And also think about a set of French doors for extra class!
From there, throw in some exterior lighting and surround it with native plants.
What may have been a stressful eyesore will now become a backyard retreat!
10. Elegant Water Features
If you’re going for a high-end aesthetic with your backyard design… A water feature is going to be a must-have!
Just about any option you choose is going to increase the serenity of your space.
If you already have a pool… One of the more popular options is installing a stone waterfall to pour directly into the pool.
And if you’re prepared for the maintenance… A koi pond is a popular choice as well.
But the possibilities are endless!
There are water walls, streams that can run through your entire yard, courtyard fountains, staircase waterfalls, and more!
And if you’re planning to install a water feature with a long runway… Having a sloped backyard can help make it more efficient!
Regardless of what you choose… Make sure you work with your backyard, not against it.
And if water features aren’t for you, this next design idea certainly will be!
11. Outdoor Dining Area
If you’re going for a high-end aesthetic with your backyard design… A water feature is going to be a must-have!
Just about any option you choose is going to increase the serenity of your space.
If you already have a pool… One of the more popular options is installing a stone waterfall to pour directly into the pool.
And if you’re prepared for the maintenance… A koi pond is a popular choice as well.
But the possibilities are endless!
There are water walls, streams that can run through your entire yard, courtyard fountains, staircase waterfalls, and more!
And if you’re planning to install a water feature with a long runway… Having a sloped backyard can help make it more efficient!
Regardless of what you choose… Make sure you work with your backyard, not against it.
And if water features aren’t for you, this next design idea certainly will be!
12. Backyard Barbecue Design Ideas
If you’re going for a high-end aesthetic with your backyard design… A water feature is going to be a must-have!
Just about any option you choose is going to increase the serenity of your space.
If you already have a pool… One of the more popular options is installing a stone waterfall to pour directly into the pool.
And if you’re prepared for the maintenance… A koi pond is a popular choice as well.
But the possibilities are endless!
There are water walls, streams that can run through your entire yard, courtyard fountains, staircase waterfalls, and more!
And if you’re planning to install a water feature with a long runway… Having a sloped backyard can help make it more efficient!
Regardless of what you choose… Make sure you work with your backyard, not against it.
And if water features aren’t for you, this next design idea certainly will be!
The First Backyard Design Idea on Your List
When you’re in the midst of a complete backyard overhaul… Priorities are going to have to be made.
The groundwork has to be laid first, of course!
But once that’s done… What features will you install first?
If you’re planning an outdoor kitchen project, we’d argue this should be bumped up to the top of the list!
Why?
There’s a few reasons… But really, it boils down to the fact that an outdoor kitchen is the most functional feature you could add to your backyard.
You’ll use it to grill delicious food (practical and fun!)... Host the ones you love most… Or simply use it to “get away” from the world for a few hours.
An outdoor grill station is something you can use and enjoy right away… Regardless of if the rest of your backyard is complete or not!
We even have an easier way for you to get started with one.
It’s the RTA outdoor kitchen!
Just like with your overall backyard design… It’s likely you want to work with a design expert for your outdoor kitchen, too!
Well, you’re in luck.
At RTA… We have an entire suite of Design Experts ready to help you at a moment’s notice.
They’re rigorously trained on every aspect of BBQ island design, to ensure you get the best results. Your dream island should come without compromise!
Should you decide to take the first step… One of our Design Experts will be assigned to your project. They’ll see the entire process through with you, start to finish.
But if you’re not quite ready for that, there’s another option.
Give our free online design tool a whirl… And we’ll go from there!
Happy designing!
Need Help With Your Plans?
FAQ
Although the pros make it look easy… There’s a lot to know about backyard design! To get started, it’s always recommended to speak with a landscape designer. Even if you don’t hire them, this will give you some fuel to start a design on your own.
Many basic backyard designs will include flower beds or garden beds surrounded by mulch, fire pits, hammocks, or simple paver patios.
Some of the key things to consider with your backyard design are thinking about how you will use the space, what native plants you can incorporate, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and learning about local zoning laws to know what permits you need.
