If you have recently remodeled your house, you will also need to remodel your backyard, so it communicates the same elegance, character, and style. Need help figuring out how to do it? Read on as we tell you what to consider, where to start, and which backyard remodel ideas you can implement to create a unique space outdoors.
What Does a Backyard Remodel Include?
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Backyard remodeling involves redesigning the outdoors of a home or the outdoor space and fixing the place up in a new way. Therefore, if you don’t have a lawn or a garden, you can choose to call a landscape architect to design one for you on your compound. On the other hand, they may hire a landscape designer to swap a garden with something else like a pool, a deck or even a playhouse. In addition, you get to choose to enhance on the backyard that you have with more features such as plants, structures and furniture.
There are several advantages for designing a healthy, these include up scaling the reselling value of your home, new living spaces, new outlook of the home and a healthier lifestyle.
A yard is a perfect place to escape from stress and even boost your immunity by relaxing or even tilling the yard. Yard work can benefit the bones according to a study conducted at the University of Kansas. Furthermore, another piece of research also reveals that engaging with the outside environment and the natural surroundings in particular or any minutes of outdoor contact do change people’s moods for better mental health.
Looking to take the first step and begin the backyard remodeling process? Let us now look a these aspect that you need to take into consideration while planning the project.
Factors to Consider When Planning Your Backyard Design
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Have you ever struggled to develop a backyard design plan? These four factors will help and encourage you to be more creative.
a) Purpose
The first thing you need to consider before redesigning your outdoor space is how you utilized it or how you intend to utilize it in the future. For example, do you need the backyard for entertainment purposes, as a leisure spot or for sports or to accommodate your friends? Know how you want the place to benefit you and it’ll be easier to sift through many backyard remodel ideas and come up with the right one.
b) Backyard Design
Now that you know how you want to use your backyard, we now move to the next step in creating a compatible remodel – to define function or backyard design. This means getting to know your traffic and what they will need in the backyard features.
For example, if you are in need of patio ideas with young children in mind, you will think of a backyard suitable for the kids. This means, you can take into consideration aspects like a yard where the child can run to and fro or a playhouse where the kid can take a nap, or play games.
At the same time, if your goal in the redesigning process of the backyard is to provide the guests with comfortable area, some options include fire pit, lighting, sitting area, and an outdoor kitchen.
Besides, if its function is primarily to provide an area for relaxation in the fresh air, certain elements can be incorporated, such as sofa, a pergola or fence, high.
c) Landscaping
So, you have the purpose and the design thought in your mind. The next aspect is the amount of work to be done in landscaping because it always forms the basis of any backyard remodels.
To understand this, go back into the design you did above and know whether one wants the lawn or not. If you desire to have a lawn or a garden, write down the kinds of plants you need, and the upkeep needed to ensure the ‘greenness’ of the area.
If you do not like plants then consider some of the things that you are able to put in your backyard. These will include wooden decks and patios, pavers, different type / color of stone etc.
d) Your budget
The cost of a backyard remodel varies with the design you wish to have, and the type of materials and accessories you want included. If doing a budget split, understand what is in your possession, what you would like to include in the project and the time taken to complete the project within a given time.
Next, when you obtain the estimated budget, it is also advisable to have a contingency for such occasions as the unforeseen delay and losses. Further, also have a budget for the yard upkeep once the backyard has been remodeled.
Backyard Remodel Tips to Use
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While the thought of kicking back and completely relaxing in your beautifully designed backyard you will soon discover the enormity of the challenge that is remodeling. This can be costly and challenging to make up one’s mind to decide on the backyard style. Here are a few guidelines that will make your remodel a lot easier to accomplish.
a) Hire a Professional Landscaper
Sure, this feels like counterproductive advice when you say you need to save money, but at other times an expert is cheaper than a do-it-yourselfer in the remodel. A landscaper will be in a position to give information on problems such as topography and simple backyard designs for the area you have. A hired landscaper can tell you which way is needed to put greenery, construction and water and tell what more is needed to finish the job.
If you only want to add some touches to your backyard, you can always consult a landscape architect and then finish off the job on your own. However, if you are in the process of planning for a serious face lift that involves landscaping work and other construction such as a swimming pool or patio; then,. In that case, the help of a certified professional will cost less than having to redo everything just because of lack of proper advice.
b) Create a Backyard Design
It is also preferable to choose an outdoor design while redesigning the backyard as it is when selecting a design for interior remodeling of a house. When used for the purpose of unwinding with friends and family guarantee it transmits your personality.
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One way you could get started transforming your backyard into a Mediterranean one is to add a mosaic patio to your design. You can also add Mediterranean touch like a plinth and urn as shown below or plant herbs and spices in different pots to match with the style.
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You can also create a zen backyard, complete with a rock garden, and including koi pond, or have a coastal backyard, which entails a construction of pergola surrounded by various vines and soft-touch fabrics.
c) Start with Landscaping
The first thing you should do in a bid to achieve a complete overhaul of the exterior is to tend to and design the backyard. If you get the best design then choose which of the structures to be erected you may need to build patios, fountains, water ponds, swimming pool, playhouse, cubbies, or sheds once you have already set aside the area for each structure.
It is vital to work with clear guidelines if one has backyard sections like the section for the garden and the play area. They say that you can also use plants, trees, flower beds and pathways to divide and open the spaces. Living in the area that has a small backyard, it is also good to use the topiaries to enhance the neatest and unique look of your backyard.
Landscaping is crucial every time you are planning for a remodel, if you don’t know where to start looking for the ideas and designs then you can hire a landscape architect.
d) Finalize the Backyard Design
During this step, you need to know what aspects will help to fill out the design and usefulness you desire. Thus, the ideas include: where to place chairs or couch, when will the backyard be utilized, and how much effort will be needed to keep the area fresh.
Choose outdoor or weather-resistant furniture to enhance utility of the backyard space. For example if the purpose of the space is to host friends and family you will need to align the seats with an outdoor kitchen or fireplace. If however, you want a site where people go to take it easy, position the seats under a tree or by a water fountain to put the guests at ease.
Also, if you are planning to use the backyard in the evening or at night you should also install the best outdoor lights.
Finally, ensure enough privacy in your back yard. Thus, the types of fences to be installed should be determined. These could be the best lattice fences or well tended topiaries. If there is no tree for shade, you also need to build an artificial shade to enable you use the backyard during hot afternoons.
e) Go for Minimal Maintenance
Ensure that the design which is being selected is suitable for your topography and traffic; otherwise, you may make further expenses given to changing the features. If you wish to start a lawn, make sure to sow the most appropriate grass or use synthetic grass. Besides, if you want a garden then ensure that it is placed in an area that gets adequate sun and little attention when there is no rainfall.
When selecting a set of furniture to use during the outdoor parties; for these, you only select ones with weather resistant seats and tables and you only use fabrics that cannot be affected by the weather. Aggregate spaces like decks or patio should be made of natural products like stones or wood which do not need paint, washing, sealing or repainting.
15 Backyard Remodel Ideas to Get You Inspired
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The backyard is an important part of the house, and that means that the way in which you choose to organize it will influence the appearance of your entire home. Do you find yourself having difficulty finding a particular design for your remodel? Below are the fifteen ideas which you can learn here.
1. Build a Deck or Patio
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Deck or ratio is the simplest method to turn a fairly dark backyard into a comfortable and cozy living space next to the house. It is very easy to design and even more you can incorporate as many areas of seating as possible. The best advantage of having a deck or patio is that it is quite simple even when is concerns a small area. It is also very easy to maintain, and when installing it you can use the best quality wood or tiles to create the surface.
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You can create an outdoor living space with a sofa and table – complete with decorative pillows and vases with flowers and small plants. There is also an option of placing an outside rug beneath your couch and table to make the deck look comfortable and sociable. A few more considerations for this backyard design are to not forget enough deck lighting. You can use the light from your porch lights or install sconces every time you relax there at night.
2. Build a Pergola, Pavilion, or Gazebo
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While a deck or patio is preferable when creating an outdoor living space next to your house, however if you wish to sit a bit further away from the house then you may opt for a pergola, a pavilion or a gazebo. This outdoors is most appropriate to entertain guests where privacy is an issue and when you want to convey a message of style.
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A pergola idea can be incorporated into many outdoor themes such as a coastal theme. Since the sun has direct access to the slatted roof, you can place amazing fabrics and vines around it to have quite an attractive outdoor area.
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If you want a better shelter from the sun and water though, you should consider planning for a gazebo or a pavilion. The former will need its floor and is the best option to be built furthest from the house. That is why it is very important to choose the best roofing material and put a half wall around it in order to ensure a very good privacy.
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On the other hand, a pavilion would be appropriate closer to the house, particularly in case if there exists an area with paved surface or if you have unused deck or patio. All you need is support beams for the structure, a roof to cover up the area, and floor furniture under the roof.
And all three are suitable for all types of outdoor furniture, including benches and chairs and couches. Nevertheless, a gazebo and pavilion are perfect for large yards and for the cases when the eye line is to be guided to other points of your landscaped backyard. If you are fortunate to have a large yard you can also install a gazebo to help channel your invitees to a garden or any other exciting attraction within the compound.
3. Start a Vegetable Garden
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If you have enough space you can cut expensive backyard landscaping costs by growing your own organic vegetables. Such can be a good idea to guarantee a yearly purchase of seasonal vegetables your family desire to consume. If the vegetable garden is divided into several areas the backyard will be lovely as the pictures show.
You can also give it some glamour by other installing a number of high striking greenery plants for some height.
4. Create a Fountain
The installation of a fountain is useful in promoting quality maintenance of compound or garden because people are motivated to provide excellent landscape. You can use it with nearly all outdoor design theme, including Victorian, contemporary yard designs among others.
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Regardless of which of the outdoor styles you decide to adopt, a fountain should ideally be the centrepiece in your backyard revamp. Therefore, it itself must be constructed first and only then other forms can be placed around it such as planted, seats or pathways.
5. Build an Outdoor Kitchen
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When you have to host guests now and then, you will understand why you would like to transform your backyard into a kitchen. Therefore, it is necessary to put a kitchen island into your plan and then precisely place the furniture for enhancement. For instance, you can sit the seats by the side of the kitchen island or assign the specific area in the yard for use as a dining space.
6. Take Your Dining Table Outdoors
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If you have a flair for hosting your guests, you can turn your backyard into a dining area. First of all, it would be necessary to correct wild growing plants and rake the land. Then, you have to choose what floor you would like; you can sue grass, put pavers, or use timber deck which will host the dining table and chairs.
Next, make sure that furniture cannot be easily damaged by water, lay clean table cloth, some flowers and candles on the dining table and they will have a beautiful place to have breakfast and other food in the afternoon.
You can get big chairs or couches which can actually accommodate many people at once. Thus, everyone will be able to find a place in your outdoor territory as well as to cope with potential personal difficulties.
If you want to have an idea about dining to outside, you can place your loveseat outdoor near the coffee table or if you place side tables on both side of the loveseat then also you do not require an outdoor dining table.
7. Add a Fire Pit or Fireplace
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If what you’re thinking of is an outdoor space for grilling and drinking with friends, then the best fire pit is a necessity in your backyard layout. You have the choice of having a permanent fire pit which is most definitely installed in your garden or you should get an extra one that you/light up during the weekends when you are having company.
If your backyard space is limited, you could install a combination of fire area and barbeque grill if you’re hosting guests sometimes in the afternoon or in the evening. Next bring the most effective weatherproof outdoor chairs near the fire pit in order to interact with the guests.
8. Build a Walkway
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If your backyard has been landscaped but looks boring then adding a walkway is the best way of spicing up the area. A walkway is simple to accomplish; all you take are stones or pavers so that they may guide the eye line to different parts of your backyard area. One simple way to give the look a makeover is to erect an arbor or line the pathway with pretty flowers.
9. Build a Treehouse
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Do you have little ones who need space to play? Why not construct one that will enhance the look of your backyard while providing extra space for relaxation? But, of course, you can also build a playhouse from the ground if you do not have a big tree where you can place a tiny house.
10. Add Pavers
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If you don’t have such a big budget for your backyard remodeling then you can lay some paver to give the area a clean up while also being able to provides a sturdy ground to place the chairs and the table.
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This is an easy do it yourself project but you need to be careful when leveling the ground. Also, if the pavers are laid correctly with gaps in between they will look neater and you may grow ground cover in between the pavers. If you decide on placing some more seats, it is better to choose a clean color scheme like white chairs and fabrics and while you can also paint the house from the outside using clean house paint.
11. Add a Swimming Pool
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With space you can change the entire backyard appearance by putting up a new swimming pool. Swimming pool has numerous uses from working, playing with your family to even increasing the value of your house if you decide to sell it.
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During the construction of a swimming pool ensure the surrounding is decorated with clean pavers, greenery and chairs. Another fantastic spot to put a pergola or a location for relaxation for sun therapy is following to a swimming pool.
12. Plant Tropical Plants
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Supposing your backyard has most structures just to find that it is almost dull. Then, take a more vibrant look and add some tall plants as well to the whole composition. Boundaries can be made with a colored path and inside; plant small trees and shrubs, large leaved evergreens.
13. Build a Greenhouse or a Winter House
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If you have a small backyard and wish to experiment with different types of plants, making changes to construct a greenhouse is considered as one of the best remodelling strategies that too financially. It enables one to grow such plants, which require different terrains in a garden setting.
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Besides, you can spare one area of the winter house for the relaxation or dining area and with great pleasure demonstrate the beautiful indoor plants to the visitors.
14. Add a Hammock
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Most landscaping projects are very costly and time-consuming, and, additionally, many need lots of open space. However, if you have a tiny backyard or don’t want to go through the process of obtaining permission to construct an external addition to your home, just want a basic garden makeover.
A hammock only requires a tree branch to rest on and it must be a good place to be when you have a book to read. There are those that are free-standing and if you do not have a tree can obtain what will be of benefit to you as well.
While a hammock is meant for one person, there should be places where more people can relax outside, you can put some pillows on the ground. It will also look best if you have well tended plants around it this will add beauty to your area.
15. Add a Bench
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This final backyard remodel idea is best for big backyards that have several zones that perhaps have a garden, entertainment area, lawn, and other. It is even better when you have lots of greenery- this way you can place a bench at vantage spot under the greenery or beside a lovely shrub.
Regarding the number of benches, it can be one or more depending on area of the green backyard area you have, where you place them preferably at the back ground that will create, or beside your favorite plants as well if they are placed at the compound, this will also offer you good privacy if you decide to take your guest for a round of the compound.
Backyard Remodel Cost
Remodeling a backyard range anywhere from $500 and may even reach up to $20 000. The average number is obtained as the ratio of your total backyard landscaping cost and the various features that include fire pits, pools, fountains, and furniture.
If the remodel also includes basic lawn care maintenance, you can anticipate that employing labor cost per square-foot will be less. However, if you want a completely new concept that incorporates many more features, you will have to spend more on new landscape designers who will design your area, landscape it, and put the features in.
Here are the most expensive backyard design costs:
- Firepits unit usually ranges from $300 to $10,000 with regard to design and the profits to disburse for the job.
- An ordinary outdoor kitchen can cost anything between $7500 and $15000 while an extravagant outside kitchen can range from $65000 up to even more considerable cost with no inclusion of the plumbing work, wirings, materials, and labor required.
- Swimming pool construction may range between $45000-$50000 or even more.
- Patios and decks cost anything from a few hundred dollars to in excess of $5,000, additional material and size are at the core of the disparity.
There is also the need to find out how much will be needed to take care of your backyard after the renovation most especially since it is outside your home. Also, to even end up considering the top tier, imagine the surfaces, plants, structures, and furniture.
There is nothing as disappointing as having to maintain a beautiful site especially after the winter season when everything gets covered in frost! So the right one is one that needs low maintenance, durable seats and tables and benches, as well as hardy plants.
Conclusion
If you are planning to redo your backyard or if you are just simply changing the look of it, it is wise to opt for better materials. Ensure that any furniture and structures put up to last and are strong enough to handle any ingredient that would come its way.
