20+ Gorgeous garden bar ideas

Host your next outdoor party with ease with a functional and creative outdoor bar.

20+ Gorgeous garden bar ideas

Adding a bar to your garden is a great extension of your home and can almost add the feeling of another whole room to your home. See what I mean with these outdoor garden bar ideas I’ve collated for you.

As the weather starts to warm up, I’m sure you are becoming more and more inclined to spend some much-needed time soaking up the sunshine outside. So why not do all you can to make your garden as welcoming as you can, not only for guests but also for yourself?

Whether you want to complete a full renovation with a kitchen area and outhouse or prefer to keep things simple with a stand-alone feature, a garden bar will transform your outdoor area into a destination and give you a reason to entertain.

1. Bar on the terrace

This quirky Elm bar on the terrace is a fabulous way to create a space for relaxing in a limited area. Perhaps if you live in the inner city and don’t have a garden, a terrace would be an ideal place to sit back and chill after a busy day. The flowering pot plants add that garden vibe and a vase of flowers on the bar table add that little bit extra. Simple wooden crate shelving is perfect for house drinks and glasses. Hanging wine glasses are a great space saver and a hygienic way to store them outdoors.

bar outdoor terrace
Source: Austin Distel via Unsplash

2. Backyard bar

outdoor bar setup

Looking for a way to spruce up a themed outdoor gathering? This backyard bar is a great addition to your set-up! The vintage luggage decor and neon sign also give this bar some personality and fun.

3. Mancave garden bar

When I think of a man cave in the back garden, I think of a workbench, a few tools and a small bar fridge filled with some nice cold beers. You can take your man cave to another level by adding some sturdy fittings, a stunning bar bench and classy bar stools. Don’t forget to stock your bar fridge with a variety of spirits. Looks like the boys may not come home for dinner.

4. Beach bar

To enjoy that seaside vibe in your back garden, you can easily create a beach bar reminiscent of those warm, tropical holidays you have had abroad.

You can take advantage of casual outdoor furniture, which can give your garden bar a more relaxed feel. And this is the most low-maintenance garden ever if gardening is something you don’t want to spend too much of your free time doing.

5. Wood and bamboo

bamboo bar with wooden stools

I love the simplistic and neat look of this bamboo bar. The wooden stools also give this a tropical island look, ideal for refreshing piña coladas on a hot day!

6. Bar stools

outdoor wooden bar stools

Enjoying comfort on a bar stool can be hard to find, so these bar stools with back support are fabulous. They also have a footrest which saves you from weary, dangling legs whilst enjoying a nice cold ale with your friends. The simple wooden slatted bar is perfect to keep building costs down.

This garden bar idea also works on gravel, which means no lawn maintenance!

7. Whiskey barrel

whiskey barrel with bar stools
Source: Igor Starkov via Pexels

A whiskey barrel makes the perfect bar table in your outdoor eating area. Not only is a whiskey barrel sturdy, but it is also the perfect height to sit on a barstool to have a tipple. Imagine the history and stories your barrel could tell. It is just a barrel of fun, really.

8. Classy charcoal

A modern, classy home deserves a modern, classy bar. You can’t go past charcoal colours for a truly classy look, and this bar is a simple and gorgeous addition to this outdoor area. A drink is always more enjoyable with quality glassware. A responsible bartender offers water with drinks to keep his or her guests well-hydrated.

home bar charcoal
Source: cottonbro via Pexels

9. Moody lighting

outdoor lighting

Mood landscape lighting creates a warm, welcoming and inviting mood in any outdoor garden bar and eating area. I would love to welcome friends over for an evening barbecue. They would feel relaxed and at home as soon as they enter this calmly lit garden.

10. Summer skies

A garden shed doesn’t always have to be used as a garden shed. It could be your very own garden bar. When the sun shines in the summer sky, I’m sure all your friends and family would be happy to gather in a beautiful outdoor entertaining space. Installing a shed can be perfect to house all your bar needs, and the door keeps everything protected in bad weather. Paving makes the whole area practical and easy to keep clean.

11. Tiki bar

tiki bar

The Tiki bar originates from tropical cultures, most commonly Polynesian. Bringing a bit of Polynesia to your garden with this cute little bar would inspire you to make some super tropical cocktails with delicious coconut rum. A simple wooden structure added to an existing outdoor patio and adding a straw fringe would easily transport you back to a dreamy south pacific holiday.

12. Wine o’clock

rustic wine shelf with bottles and wine glasses

This is definitely my favourite time of day. Wine o’clock suggests it’s time to stop work, relax and chat about the day you’ve had. You could make any outdoor wall into a bar, and I love the use of rustic wood and clean straight lines to create a neat and organized bar.

13. I am gin-vincible

I am strong… I am gin-vincible. Gin is a very on-trend drink at the moment, with so many boutique gin distilleries popping up everywhere. So why not create your own gin bar in your garden? You could even use a couple of wooden crates to achieve this look.

14. Champagne shack

open bar in a garden patio
Source: Souranshi Fashion and Lifestyle Magazine via Pexels

Champagne means celebrating. And I think every single day should be celebrated and celebrated in style. I can imagine propping myself onto the bar stool with friends and cheering when the first cork is popped. This beautiful space has been carefully designed with an indoor-outdoor feel, open enough to feel like you are sitting in the garden.

15. Birthday bar

Adding a happy birthday banner to a bar really says, “let’s get this party started“. This is a great way to decorate for a birthday by adding balloons and photos of the birthday girl or boy.

16. Bar shed

Tin and wood together are classic materials that can be used to build the best outback and rustic style shed. Having bar stool seating on either side of a bar bench makes for easy conversation. Adding bar paraphernalia creates humour and quirkiness in your space.

17. Fairy light courtyard

Fairy lights just make any outdoor area look lovely and welcoming. Also, when the evening is a little more balmy than usual, some sausages grilling with a cold beer in hand sounds perfect too.

18. Bright colour scheme

Walking into a bright and colourful would instantly feel like some fun was about to be had by all. Whether grabbing your favourite beverage from the bar or dancing the night away, you’re bound to have a fabulous time!

19. Matching brickwork

garden bar with matching brickwork

This neat garden bar has an outdoor grill built with matching brickwork. Can you imagine enjoying an afternoon barbecue with the family and possibly drinks straight after? I know I can!

20. Sports bar

Well, if you can’t watch football while having a drink, what has the world come to? Under the bar is a great storage place, and those cushions will come in handy as the evening goes on. Don’t forget to get a hand with your TV installation.

21. Matching bar and spa area

outdoor entertainment bar with corner bar and jacuzzi

Who would ever want to leave home when you could kick back and relax in this fabulous outdoor entertaining area? Imagine sinking into that warm, bubbling spa with your favourite drink in hand while soaking up the last warm rays of sunshine. Oh, the bliss!

 

So there, we have 20+ garden bar ideas to assist you in planning out your new favourite addition to your garden. I especially love the garden bars that have been styled in a beachy way, as you can bring the tropical island holiday right to your garden. What were your favourite styles? Let’s grab a drink and chat all about it below! Cheers!

20+ Outstanding outdoor bathroom ideas

Soak, relax and enjoy the tranquility of mother nature...

20+ Outstanding outdoor bathroom ideas

When I think of outdoor bathrooms, I think of relaxing in a tropical place, being surrounded by plants, watching the stars appear one by one or just the convenience of being able to wash off after a dip in the ocean. Outdoor bathrooms are both tranquil and functional. And the beauty of building an outdoor bathroom is that you don’t need a big budget or a massive space to create one.

One of the great benefits of creating your outdoor bathroom is that you can make use of your existing plants and walls for privacy. And, as we all know that items left outside can perish, you can reuse old baths and fittings so that it doesn’t matter if your set up gets a little beaten up.

All in all, an outdoor bathroom is something you should definitely consider as your next house DIY project. Check out these dreamy outdoor bathrooms for some ideas!

1. Repurposed bathtub

Scrub a dub dub, how cute is this tub?! What a great idea for a hot day or just some outdoor water fun with the kids. Use your outdoor shower to fill up a large tub for the kids to splash around in. Or you could even use it to wash your furry friends outside. Bonus!

outdoor-bathroom-in-garden
Source: Photo by Cecilia Medina on Unsplash

2. Indoor-outdoor bathroom

Enjoy the best of both worlds with a bathroom where you can easily walk from the inside into the outdoors and in this case, enjoy a soothing bath. The little wooden deck brings the natural outdoorsy vibe that the designer is going for here.

outdoor-bathrooms-charm
Source: Photo by Rachel Claire from Pexels

3. Bamboo tub

Who else needs to curl up in this tub under the stars right now?! All wood gives such a rustic vibe. And you can always pretty things up with a string of fairy lights!

outdoor-bathrooms-barrel
Source: Photo by Brooke Lewis from Pexels

4. Just the basics

How simply genius is this set up? It’s pretty much just a bath with absolutely no fuss. Simple and effective. And I love the addition of the wooden plank to place your book and bath products. You could easily recreate a setup like this, even if you have limited space.

outdoor-bathrooms-tub
Source: Photo by Taryn Elliott from Pexels

5. Sunken tub

What a perfect place to relax after a long day! Instead of just plonking a bath in the middle of your courtyard, you could talk to your bathroom renovation builder about cutting into your deck and inserting a spa bath into your space.

outdoor-bathrooms-spa
Source: Photo by Dayvison de Oliveira Silva from Pexels

6. Coloured tub time

If you want to make your outdoor bathroom a feature of your garden, using a bright colour for your tub will do the trick! The eyes are immediately drawn to a vividly painted tub that looks oh-so-inviting.

7. Gimme shelter

Even if it’s a rainy night, you can still enjoy an outdoor bath if you build a shelter. Not only will you enjoy the blissful sound of raindrops on the roof, but it’s a great idea to have some shade and privacy for your outdoor bathroom area. (Find a pergola expert to help you design and build a shelter!).

8. Natural elements

This design utilises many natural elements that really enhance the small space. The pebble flooring along with the tiled slats to stand on are a great idea as the stones give a softer look to the area, whilst the tile provides a smooth place to stand on so you aren’t stepping directly on rocks. I also love the hanging plants that have been strategically placed so that they look like they are growing from the external garden beyond the walls.

indoor-outdoor-bathroom
Source: Photo by Mel Elías on Unsplash

9. One with nature

Feel like a goddess and be one with nature in a divine shower area created by setting up your outdoor shower on a rustic tree trunk stand. This is such an innovative idea for when you want to create an outdoor space to wash off without making it too noticeable. A tree trunk fades into the environment so well that if the shower was turned off you would barely notice it!

10. Countryside living

Rolling hills, the sound of cows mooing in the distance and a place to unwind – it doesn’t get much more country chic than this! I would love to step into this makeshift outdoor bath area whilst enjoying these beautiful surroundings. This is literally just a round tin tub with a faucet attached to it. Perhaps you could put a hole in the bottom to drain the water and double it as a watering system for your plants under the deck!

outdoor-bathrooms-closeup
Source: Photo by Rachel Claire from Pexels

11. Black privacy screening

Privacy is everything and modern screening in black keeps everything oh-so-chic.

12. Outdoor hut vibes

How about this tropical hut-style outdoor shower setup? Hot showers out in the middle of nowhere? Yes, please!

outdoor-bathroom-hut
Source: Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva from Pexels

13. Open and freeing

Living on acreage definitely has its perks, especially when you can have an open outdoor bath area that looks out to the wide rolling hills of green grass! This setting is absolute bliss with a simple round tub.

outdoor-bathrooms-rustic
Source: Photo by David Klein on Unsplash

14. Cleansing corner

Create a beautiful cleansing corner that’s the perfect place to wash off after the beach. Opting for a rainfall showerhead will make things that much more luxurious! Set up a small floating shelf nearby to keep your favourite products ready to go. If it’s private enough, you may well end up having daily showers here too!

outdoor-bathroom-with-rainfall-shower
Source: Photo by Chandler Cruttenden on Unsplash

15. Towels within reach

Don’t forget to keep towels within easy reach in your outdoor bathroom. Especially if you are using your outdoor shower right after the beach and need somewhere to hang up towels instead of bringing sand inside everywhere.

16. Country chic outdoor bathroom

What a stunning rustic space to chill out. Imagine having these views when you have your languid soak in your outdoor bathroom! One can only dream…

outdoor-bathroom-scenery
Source: Photo by Ron Lach from Pexels

17. Hampton’s coastal

Create the perfect coastal Hampton’s outdoor area. Even just adding blue and white striped towels will give your space those holiday feels. You could also perch an old surfboard beside it to amp up the beachy vibes.

18. Simple stone

This shower area is super simple with the central tub resting on a bed of pebbles. The use of plenty of natural stone also adds to the outdoor bathroom vibes, even though it appears this bathroom may be in an open-air courtyard. I love how much interest is created when you add a single, simple statement plant!

indoor-outdoor-bathroom
Source: Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash

19. Bathing with bougainvilleas

For an outdoor bathroom that looks like it could belong in the pages of Vogue Italia and located in the Italian countryside, consider planting a stunning pink flowering bougainvillea beside your outdoor shower. It will look absolutely spectacular as it grows and drapes down into your bathroom.

20. Sanctuary courtyard

How divine is this sanctuary courtyard?! It looks like it could be right out of a resort in Bali where the rainforests are lush and the mood is nothing but relaxing. Drop a few rose petals in the bath, get yourself something yummy to sip on and you won’t want to leave this pleasant paradise.

outdoor-bathrooms-privacy-screen
Source: Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash

21. Magical mosaics

Wow, how magical is this mosaic outdoor bathroom?! While the green tones fade beautifully into the green trees, the wall still provides added privacy with a touch of elegance. I love the hanging lights draped across the bath!

outdoor-bathroom-pool
Source: Photo by Maria Orlova from Pexels

There you have it, 20+ outdoor bathroom ideas for your next house project! My personal favourites are the bathrooms that incorporate candles and lanterns for added relaxation and, of course, the bathrooms that have glorious views to look out onto! Which ones stood out to you? Would you be game to create an outdoor bathroom yourself? Let me know below!

40 Patio ideas for your backyard

Get ready to entertain the crowd with an inviting patio setting to unwind after a busy week.

40 Patio ideas for your backyard

Looking for a refreshing place to entertain guests or a change of scenery from your usual lounging area? Your backyard can be an excellent canvas for events and unwinding of any kind, especially on sunny afternoons or cool evenings.

You can transform your home’s open space into one you’ll love to use for dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing. Check out these patio ideas to breathe new life into your backyard.

Patio seating

You don’t always have to have guests over to deck your patio with comfy seating. Having seating ready outdoors makes for the best lounging spot if you’re in the mood for fresh air.

1. Capitalise on corners

couch seating in patio corner

Turn a bland corner into a cosy nook perfect for everything from lively conversation to quiet contemplation by adding cushioned seating and a coffee or bistro table.

2. Small furnishings for small spaces

relaxing small patio seating for two

Who says you need a ton of space to enjoy your patio? Adding a couple of seats and a smaller coffee table for drinks can be enough to create an inviting hangout spot that you can’t wait to come home to.

3. Build seating right into your patio

built-in bench seating

If you’re planning a broader remodel of your patio, building seating right into the structure of the patio itself can be a great option. Allow the seating to blend seamlessly into the foliage for a picturesque feel. Dress it up with comfy throws for events or lounging around.

4. Go casual with Adirondack chairs

comfortable adirondack chairs

Adirondack chairs offer a timeless, classic design that adds casual style to any patio. Use them to surround a fire pit, or place them by the corner for the ultimate relaxation spot to enjoy some sun.

5. Create space to “hang out”

woven hanging chair in patio

Hanging chairs are another fantastic way to create a relaxing environment. Spaces don’t always have to be too formal; they should be as comfortable as you prefer them to be.

6. Loungers for sun-lovers

patio loungers for laidback hangouts

If you’re looking to use your backyard to soak up the sun, why not add a couple of loungers to help you do exactly that? Whether or not you have a pool, you can use loungers to get a tan, read a book, or chat with good company.

7. Why sit when you can lie down?

casual hammock in patio

How about a mid-afternoon snooze? Adding a hammock to your patio instantly ups the cool factor and creates an inviting place to relax and recharge.

Patio décor ideas

Sometimes decorating your patio is just a matter of adding unique design elements to keep it visually stimulating or to bring that air of calmness to the overall look. Don’t be afraid to bring big and small pieces to your space. If you’re hesitant, find professional contractors to plan it out and make it happen.

8. Create an airy feel with curtains

airy curtains in patio

Outdoor curtains can create an elegant and airy feel as they move in the breeze on your patio. They aren’t just for show, either; curtains can help filter out just the right amount of sunlight, and they also allow you some privacy if your backyard is quite large.

9. Add a fountain

small patio fountain

The sound of running water offers a relaxing bit of white noise that can help drown out the sounds of the city. Add a fountain to your patio to bring a touch of that tranquillity to your space.

Not sure where to add that water feature? Sounds like you might need to think about your overall garden design. But if that’s not something you’re not too sure about, you might want to get a professional and figuring out how much a garden designer cost is a great place to start.

10. Scatter lanterns

small hanging outdoor lanterns

Lanterns brighten the night and create an inviting atmosphere on your patio once the sun goes down. Try incorporating multiple lanterns of varying shapes and sizes for a casual but put-together look.

11. Build a pond or waterfall

charming home koi pond

Create a sense of calm and well-being when relaxing on your patio by adding a water feature. Whether it’s a waterfall, a pond, or both, a water feature is an excellent way to create a calming atmosphere while relaxing on your patio. Here’s how much a water feature will cost when putting one in your garden.

12. Lay down an outdoor rug

cosy outdoor patio rug

With the trend toward bringing the indoors out showing no signs of slowing, consider adding outdoor carpeting to define a sitting area and add a splash of colour to your patio.

13. Add planters

clever wall of planters

Potted plants are versatile accessories that can dramatically change the look of your patio or deck. Whether your space is big or small, it’s a great way to minimise the amount of work you need to put in when tending to the greens.

14. Incorporate colourful pillows

colourful patio cushions

Pillows are one of the most flexible and affordable elements you can incorporate when it comes to getting the look you want on your patio. Choose warm colours to create vibrant and upbeat energy, or opt for cooler colours to create a more relaxed environment.

15. Plant a splash of colour

patio with flowers in rattan baskets

Flowers add a pop of colour that makes a welcome addition to any patio décor plan. When selecting flowers, consider choosing colours that play well together with the rest of your décor. Also, consider planting flowers that bloom during different times of the year so that you’ll always have something to enjoy when you step outside.

16. Surround your patio with plants

lush greens surrounding wooden patio

Adding greenery all around your patio makes the space feel safe and secluded as if you’ve just walked out of your home and into a secret garden.

Patio layout & material ideas

The essential part of patio planning is considering your layout and material options. Factors like the amount of space you have and your design preference will affect how your backyard will look.

17. Build a multi-level deck

stunning multilevel deck patio

A multi-level deck is a great way to create a usable outdoor living space with naturally-defined areas. One of the most common layouts for a multi-level deck involves keeping a BBQ on one level and a seating area on another. If you’re feeling really ambitious, you could add a third level and a hot tub.

Not sure where to start? Here’s our DIY guide on how to build a deck.

18. Use pavers for extra visual interest

decorative patio paving

If you’re building your patio from scratch, consider using pavers to add interest. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Pavers can be used to create looks ranging from old-world charm all the way to ultra-modern symmetry.

19. Bring the indoors outside with tiles

colourful tiled patio flooring

Give your patio a sophisticated look with tiles outside. If there’s no shade to cover them, look for waterproof options like plastic, rubber, or porcelain for your tiles.

20. Create a path for the eye to follow

winding stone pathway

Speaking of views, why not take an active role in that by creating a picturesque path leading to or from your patio? A greenery-lined path naturally captures our eye and creates a sense of curiosity about what lies beyond.

21. Sliding doors

sliding doors opening to patio

If you’re going full-scale renovation, there’s no better way to create an airy, flowing feel than to build in sliding doors leading out to your patio. When open, it allows for a seamless transition between indoors and out, making your patio feel less like the outdoors and more like an extension of your living room.

22. A custom wood deck

wooden patio deck

There’s something to be said about wood as a timeless choice in deck design. Consider having the wood planks layered in varying directions to add a more polished look to your deck.

Patio entertaining ideas

If you’re an ever-enthusiastic host who loves to wow guests, you’ll enjoy creating an outdoor space perfect for events of every kind.

23. Embrace the casual ambience of a fire pit…

outdoor fire pit

Share ghost stories and fond memories by adding a fire pit to your patio. A fire pit is great at creating a casual vibe. Be sure to have enough seating space to accommodate guests. Wrap-around seating works well for fire pits.

24. …or go upscale with an elegant fire table

cosy outdoor fire table

For an elevated design, consider choosing a fire table instead. Fire tables are available in various shapes and sizes but generally work best with a modern or contemporary design style.

If these fire pits aren’t exactly what you’re looking for, we’ve compiled a dedicated article on fire pit ideas.

25. Get that old-world feel with a wood-fired oven

classic wood-fired oven

Are you big into making your own pizza? A wood-fired oven might be right up your alley. It offers function and form, creating an old-world vibe reminiscent of simpler times – perfect for a backyard patio.

26. Add a built-in grill

built-in outdoor grill

For a more versatile culinary option, build a grill right into your patio structure. It lends a more put-together look than keeping it as a standalone item. Plus, it can be built to offer you more counter space as well.

27. Create an inviting outdoor kitchen

modern stainless steel outdoor kitchen

Why stop with a grill? If you’ve got the space, you can create an entire outdoor kitchen complete with an oven, stove, and sink. Take your entertaining game to new heights by creating a complete backyard oasis.

28. Catch your favourite show on TV

upscale fireplace with outdoor tv

While you’re bringing the kitchen outside, why not take the living room with you too? The advent of weather-resistant TVs means that you can catch up on your favourite show without having to leave the comfort of your patio.

29. Set the tone with camouflaged speakers

weatherproof rock speaker

If you enjoy listening to music while relaxing outdoors, all-weather speakers can be a great choice. These days they come in various shapes and sizes to blend in with your décor and are made to withstand the elements — sometimes even more than indoor speakers.

30. Keep the conversation flowing with an outdoor bar

sophisticated outdoor bar

An outdoor bar is a great way to give people a gathering place to relax, sip a cold drink or talk with whoever is behind the counter. If you’ve got a TV behind the counter, it can also be the perfect place for you and your friends to catch that season premiere you’ve been waiting for.

31. Dine outdoors

patio dining area

Adding a full-size dining table to your outdoor space immediately designates that space as an area to gather and eat as a group. When the weather is nice, having a dining table on your patio is a great way to enjoy a home-cooked meal in the comfort of your backyard.

32. Pool on the patio

relaxing pool by the patio

Few pairings are more classic than the patio-and-pool combination. For a seamless look, choose a paving material that works for your patio and pool liner; you’ll want something that retains a grip when wet.

Patio lighting & canopy ideas

Lighting lends a hand in setting the mood for any space. It also helps define the amount of activity and comfort throughout outdoor endeavours.

33. Illuminate a path with floor lighting

discreet floor light by walkway

Not only does floor lighting look beautiful at night, but it also serves a practical purpose. It can help illuminate walkways, stairs, and seating areas of an outdoor patio so you can enjoy the fresh air day and night.

Looking for some more lighting ideas? Take a look at our ultimate favourite backyard ideas.

34. Let the light in with a pergola

trendy pergola by the patio pool

A pergola is a gorgeous way to dapple the sunlight overhead and create a place to recharge in your backyard. Pergolas come in all shapes and sizes, from the traditional to the ultra-modern.

35. Add a cosy feel with a gazebo

large backyard gazebo with comfortable seating

A gazebo is a perfect way to create a sheltered area to relax on your patio. Rain or shine, you’ll be protected from the elements, and the sturdy structure opens up all kinds of other decorating ideas, from lighting to seating and beyond.

36. Create natural shade with climbing vines

gorgeous climbing vines over pergola beams

Climbing vines can be trained to climb up and around your pergola (or any other structure, for that matter). They are a beautiful way to add even more shade and greenery to your patio without the need for additional materials.

37. Hang fairy lights for a fairytale feel

hanging fairy lights

Fairy lights are very popular these days and for good reason; there’s just no better way to create that dreamy fairytale atmosphere. Hang them across your ceiling or between structures in your patio on nights you’d like to add magic to your space.

38. Play with fabric for pergolas

layered fabric over wooden pergola

For a more relaxed and airy look, experiment with different fabrics to layer over your pergolas. They can be a gorgeous way to filter the sunlight without being fussy – and they’re movable, too. Canvas is a great material to work with as it’s relatively thick to bring in shade.

39. Open up an umbrella

large patio umbrella

For shade that’s easy to install only when necessary, an umbrella works perfectly. Get all of the sun protection you need with the added benefit of portability. Plus, today’s shade umbrellas are available in various styles and colours to suit your tastes.

40. Protect from rain and run with an awning

automatic retractable window awning

Just as you want to be protected from the rain, you’ll want some shade in the heat of summer when dining outside for lunch. That’s where an awning comes in. It can extend at various lengths to give you the exact shade you need.

Now you have plenty of patio ideas to give your outdoor entertaining space the ultimate makeover. Find landscape designers and patio builders near you to help bring your backyard dreams to life.

75 Backyard ideas for your home – backyard landscaping ideas, small backyard ideas

If you're thinking about updating your garden, you won't want to miss these ideas!

75 Backyard ideas for your home – backyard landscaping ideas, small backyard ideas

Need a new DIY garden project or perhaps you’re looking at tackling a large scale landscaping redesign? Well, you’ve come to the right spot as I unearth come amazing backyard ideas for your home, including both big and small changes which will see you reap the rewards straight away.

Fancy a swimming pool? Want something a little quirky for your garden? Or perhaps you have a small backyard and not sure what to do… Well, with over 75 ideas you’re guaranteed to find something that works for your backyard.

Here are 75 small backyard ideas for your home:

As we continue to shift from larger suburban properties to smaller urban housing, outdoor space is ever changing and large gardens are hard to come by these days. So with less room to work with, it means that we need plenty of smaller backyard ideas to help maximise the space we’ve got.

Courtyard conversion

In some urban homes, there’s a decision to be made as to whether to use a driveway for cars or use the space as a living area. Whilst it depends on your lifestyle demands there are some lovely courtyard garden ideas of how to make it work either way.

Take a seat

By adding a bench up against a wall it means you have a space to sit down without the need for a full outdoor dining set up. You can also turn it into a backyard feature with plants and creative landscape lighting. Just make sure you find a carpenter who will be able to measure up and install the bench safely and to your design brief.

Thinking of adding an entertaining area? We’ve put together an in-depth article to show you 50 patio ideas to think about when designing your backyard.

Garden mirror ideas

Mirrors work in any room to make it look larger and the same can be said for gardens. Whether you use a big or small mirror, it’s perfect for inner-city courtyards to reflect as much natural light as possible.

Vines and climbers

By using crawlers such as Ivy or Jasmine, you can turn a plain concrete privacy wall into something that captures the eye. Simply design the wire in the pattern that you want the plant to grow and then you just need to make sure that you help it grow in the right direction. And don’t forget to prune when required so that the shape is maintained.

vines in backyard
Photo by Jannet Serhan on Unsplash

Rooftop garden ideas

If you have a rooftop to use as a garden, it’s a beautiful sanctuary that you can relax in and an ideal space to host outdoor garden parties. You could build a vegetable garden or just scatter potted plants around in all different sizes. The options are endless.

Pond ideas

If you want something that is low maintenance, a water feature is the way to go. A garden pond in a container is relatively easy to install and if it is positioned in front of a window or glass door, it doubles as a view!

Add some grass

Adding grass to your backyard will make it seem larger as it divides different areas and it’s perfect for families with kids or pets. It can be real grass or astroturf, it just depends on how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Perhaps take a look at our guides on laying turf or installing artificial turf before you make your decision.

Potted plants

Using potted plants of different shapes and sizes adds depth to your outdoor space and can work on balconies or throughout a backyard.

Herb vertical garden

You might not have a lot of floor space, so it’s important to utilise walls too. Whilst vertical gardens are relatively common, why not do a vertical herb garden instead of just greenery? It’s really easy to recycle pot plants and turn it into a DIY project.

If you’re in an apartment, here’s our guide on how to grow a herb garden on a balcony.

Hanging plants

Not only are they pretty but hanging plants are another great use of space when you don’t have a lot of room.

Succulent wall

The bigger the plants, the higher the cost. So by using a lot of smaller plants instead, such as succulents, it can create a feature with a similar impact as one big plant.

Painted fence

Sometimes you just have to work with what you’ve got, so painting the fence is one way to make your garden stand out and bring that modern look from the inside out. This is one of my favourite backyard ideas that I’ve come across because it’s just so easy for anyone to do.

Fire pits

If you want a different type of feature but don’t have a lot of room, a fire pit is a lovely idea as you can almost use it year-round.

I’ve put together a whole article on fire pits if that’s what you’re looking for, so go take a look at these fire pit ideas.

Garden light ideas

Sure it’s nice to sit in the sun and enjoy your garden by day but why not get the most out of your backyard and use it at night as well with some of these great garden light ideas?

After all, there’s more to garden lighting than an automatic sensor light that is triggered at all hours of the night by animals (owned and strays).

Path lights (but not too many)

It’s tempting to put lights down your pathway like an airport runway but please don’t do that. Instead, only put a few lights to highlight the general direction people should walk.

Tree lights

A tree might look simple during the day but at night when you add a few spotlights – it can turn it into a fabulous feature. Spotlights can be used to highlight just about anything in your garden, but again, fewer is better.

Want to know how much this will set you back? Here’s our outdoor lighting installation cost guide for you.

Water feature

If you’re going to invest in a water feature, it’s worth putting some lights in to show it off at night as well.

Pool lights

Instead of the usual one or two pool lights, your pool can stand out with colourful lights or perhaps try a different type of lighting design. As you can see in the image below, this pool has smaller lights along the entire length of the pool.

Garden bench lighting

Add more than candlelight to the entertaining areas of your garden. Look at something more permanent like these LED lights under the seating. It turns a normal seat into a focal point.

House lights

Show off your beautiful home with some stylish wall lights. You can get really lovely ones to highlight and shadow certain areas e.g. near entrances.

Fairy lights

They aren’t just for parties and Christmas events. Fairy lights can definitely be used all year round because they’re just so gorgeous. All you need to do is make sure that you buy the ones that are safe to use outdoors.

Filament lights

These are the pendant lights for exteriors, and filament lights by the front door immediately let people know that you’re all about great design.

Festoon lighting

First, it was all about fairy lights and then it was festoon lighting, which is pretty much just a bigger version of fairy lights. However, these lights are particularly great when you hang them over a dining table for the ultimate Instagramable dinner party.

festoon lights
Photo by Ryan Gerrard on Unsplash

Quirky DIY garden ideas

Sure you could lay some lawn or pot some plants, but if you’re more of an out-of-the-box person then these are the interesting DIY backyard ideas you’ve been looking for!

DIY hanging plants

It’s amazing how many things around the home can be reused for a different purpose, such as these colanders which have been transformed into hangers for plants.

Recycled vintage tools

Have an old timber ladder that you no longer use? Turn it into a great feature in your garden with plants or dress it up in lights for a special occasion.

Moveable planters

If you don’t have a soil garden and don’t want to move heavy pots around, a planter on wheels is what you need. With one of these, you can now constantly change your garden design or even use them to block off different areas.

Vertical garden walls

Vertical gardens have had their time in the spotlight because they work in just about any location, from outdoor terraces and small balconies to living rooms and kitchens.

vertical garden wall
Photo by Visual Stories || Micheile on Unsplash

They truly bring the outside in, but if you’re looking for something a little different why not try this DIY vertical garden idea, which uses pallets and terracotta pots?

Creative pot plants

If you’re a wordsmith, you’ll love these pots and so easy to DIY.

DIY garden markers

It’s easy to get plants mixed up so DIY garden markers can be made from recycled items around the home such as wine corks.

Succulent plant pots

There are so many different ideas when it comes to planting succulents but you’ll go nuts over this coconut planter idea.

Bird feeder

Once seen in many country gardens, the humble bird feeder is a great project for little ones to get involved with as well as feeding your local birds.

Backyard pool ideas

Thinking about splashing out and getting a pool for summer? If you can’t decide between an inground or an aboveground pool, here are some tips and inspiration.

infinity pool
Photo by João Mansano on Unsplash

Tip 1: Pool Cost

  • The cost is usually the reason people choose an aboveground over an inground pool; they’re generally a cheaper option and can come readily available in a kit. Inground pools are expensive to purchase and install but here is our complete pool installation and excavation cost guide.
  • Aboveground pools are definitely less expensive; depending on the surface material or kit purchased, you’re looking at a couple of thousand dollars (plus), but you should check to make sure the installation cost and full equipment kit (i.e. pumps, etc.) are included.

Inground pool ideas

Oh to be one of the lucky few with an inground pool surrounded by grass for the perfect pool landscaping look… This super refined look is something that you would find in a European countryside estate or in a Vogue Living magazine.

Aboveground pool ideas

Some people shy away from aboveground pools based on the misconception that they aren’t very pretty. But aboveground pools have really come a long way since the big blue tub era and decking kits can easily be installed for the illusion of an inground pool.

If you’ve got a sloped backyard, an aboveground pool is perfect for utilising this space and can add a great deal of style to your property.

Tip 2: Property value

  • If you live in a warmer climate, having a pool could potentially do wonders for your property valuation; it adds an aesthetic of relaxation and luxury to your home.
  • But is it worth it, and does the fact of whether it’s an inground or aboveground style matter? Well, that depends on the market and how much you might need to spend in order to leverage any increased property value. There is no ‘one size fits all’ answer to this question; it’s best to do some research or speak to a local property agent.

Alternative pool shapes

Kidney, rectangle and oval pools don’t have anything on this stunning fan pool design.

Plunge pool

Want both a spa and a pool? Well, a plunge pool is the perfect way to get the best of both worlds because not only can they be heated but also due to their size, the maintenance isn’t too much either.

Small backyard pool ideas

Just because you have a small backyard, it doesn’t mean that you have to miss out on diving into your own swimming pool. This small pool design feels like you’re staying at your own private villa – I love it!

Pool decking ideas

A timber deck surrounding a pool gives it a rustic or beachy vibe when using natural or ash timber and there’s been a definite shift away from tiles to timber decking in recent years. If you love this, then take a look at these other pool decking ideas.

timber pool decking
Photo by Drew Dau on Unsplash

Pool tiling ideas

From terracotta to stone, the options are endless when it comes to tiling around your pool. For a stylish look, make sure it’s a tile that flows into multiple areas.

Tip 3: Maintenance

  • Aboveground and inground pools usually require the same level of effort, and the same approach to maintenance tasks, so costs can be quite comparable.
  • It comes down to the surface material of your pool (i.e. vinyl, fibreglass, etc.), whether it’s salt or chlorine, and your maintenance routine. If you consider the fact that an inground pool is a permanent fixture on your property, it could be more expensive in the long term to resolve issues if they occur.
  • There are a number of basic pool maintenance tips you should know and budget for; Airtasker has a number of pool professionals available to help.

Pool landscaping ideas

Plants and landscaping around edges look great but might require some extra attention and care. Go with plants and grass that are resistant to saltwater, otherwise, you can hose poolside plants off with fresh water after splashing around in the pool.

Pool fencing ideas

If you want an unobstructed view, you can’t do better than glass just be prepared to clean it.

Tubular metal pool fencing has been around forever and because it’s the practical / cheaper option, it can be painted to suit any design. In saying this, there are some great modern variations that are coming into the market though as you can see below.

Garden shed ideas

Your backyard needs just as much love as the inside of your home, so it’s important to look after it with regular maintenance. With most backyards, you’ll need a lawnmower, hedge trimmer and shovel at the very least which means you’ll need a garden shed to store all of your equipment.

Sheds can come in all shapes and sizes, but to make it fit in with your backyard there are plenty of garden shed ideas to look at, starting with the ideas below.

Barn style shed

The bigger the garden, the bigger the garden shed you will need to store the equipment. A barn-style shed looks great on bigger properties.

For this type of shed, you’ll need a helping hand with your garden shed installation and painting.

Shed organisation

It’s not exactly the external of a shed, but this nifty design using chalkboard paint is one of the best garden shed ideas that I’ve seen.

Small shed

Only need to hang a few smaller items? Then you can get away with a cupboard shed which can go down the side of the house.

Metal shed

If you head to your local hardware shop to buy a shed, chances are that you’ll end up with one of these metal ones, which look simple enough to put together but from personal experience, hire a professional! You’ll thank me later 🙂

garden shed in backyard
Photo by Andy Watkins on Unsplash

Clever gardening hacks

If dirt under your nails isn’t something you particularly enjoy, here are some great home gardening hacks to help make your weekend gardening a little bit easier.

Vertical garden

For a quick and easy vertical garden without the hard work of building a custom vertical planter, get a cheap shoe organiser from your neighbourhood shop.

Keep it fresh

Make sure your plants look fantastic all year round by planting flowers in their original pots. This means that you can easily move them around without digging so that you can colour coordinate for a season or replace if a plant doesn’t flourish.

Recycling hack

For an easy watering can use a milk bottle by poking holes in the lid and fill it up with water. Or you could also use a milk bottle as a handheld shovel for dirt or spreading fertiliser.

Natural fertiliser

This is probably the easiest hack ever but simply pour the water, which is left behind when you cook rice, all over your garden to provide a great source of nutrients to your plants.

DIY irrigation

It’s not as hard as you think it is to make your own irrigation system, all you need is a few water bottles dug next to a plant which you’ve cut holes into, and fill with water when required.

Outdoor furniture ideas

Spoiling yourself with some new outdoor furniture? There’s so much choice including size, materials, heights and functionality. So let’s take a look at some different types of dining settings.

Bar outdoor furniture

Outdoor bar sets are great for balcony apartments where you want to take in the amazing view. It’s also perfect for anyone with a pool.

The only two things to consider with a higher table is that you’re limited to entertaining smaller groups because you won’t be able to add multiple tables together for bigger get together’s, and it also doesn’t really work for families with younger kids.

Lounge sets vs. dining sets

Are you an informal or formal host? Will you eat inside or have a full sit-down dinner outside? These are some of the questions to ask yourself because whilst it’s nice to have an outdoor dining set, you might be able to get a lounge set that is better suited for multi-purpose use.

With a lounge set, you can use it when reading the Sunday paper with a cuppa or for informal pre-dinner drinks during a dinner party.

These sets will normally be delivered as flatpacks, but you can help the time fly by with some furniture assembly help.

Outdoor daybeds

Daybeds are great for limited space within pool areas or a chill-out zone in smaller backyards. There are a few different types that you can get depending on your styling e.g. cabana style, pod sofas or canopy daybeds.

Coordinated furniture sets

If you have a large backyard with various areas to furnish, it’s really important that your garden flows and by getting a matching outdoor garden set, you can achieve this very easily.

What about the material?

By now you have a pretty good idea about what type of furniture is going to work for you, but what about the style and material? Here’s some inspiration:

Wicker

Timber

timber outdoor furniture
Photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash

Wrought iron

Stainless steel

Can you DIY?

Absolutely! There’s lots of outdoor furniture inspo around and it’s amazing what you can do with a few pallets and a sewing machine. But to get some help to make it become a reality, get a handyman who’s done it before to help you out.

Now it’s time to invite friends and family over to enjoy your beautiful garden. Get some outdoor entertaining ideas about lighting, styling and more!

Deck and pergola ideas

Small backyard pergola

If you don’t have a lot of space, go all out with a stunning pergola set-up like the one below which has been decked out with festoon lights, an outdoor rug and comfy furniture.

Modern pergola

Pergola design hasn’t really changed that much over time, but there are some beautiful creations incorporating a variety of materials. This could be an up-and-coming trend as we see more cohesive indoor/outdoor living areas.

Rustic pergola

Rustic and recycled is the new boho and this pergola captures the look perfectly. Here’s how to build your own pergola, if you want to perfect DIY activity.

boho backyard ideas
Photo by Sonnie Hiles on Unsplash

Minimalist decking

You can’t go for natural timber decking if you want a classic design in your outdoor space. It’s a great option if you’re thinking of resale value too!

If you’re looking to install your own decking, here’s a very helpful guide which takes you through how to DIY and build your own deck.

White deck

Instead of natural timber, why not use a colour like white for a refreshing backyard outlook?

Kids backyard ideas

Growing up with a spacious backyard to run around in is a glorious memory for many of us. If you had a sandpit, cubby house or trampoline, all of your friends were probably in your backyard.

Thanks to the internet, technology and the DIY/ upcycling trends, the ultimate ‘outdoor playground at home’ game has stepped up a level. Here are some inspirational backyard ideas that kids of all ages will love; young and old (and maybe even us grown-ups).

Outdoor blackboard

Do your children love to paint, draw, and use chalk and crayons? Moving the art station outside will encourage them to play outdoors and help keep the mess under control. You can mount an easel to your fence, or build something standalone.

Making an outdoor easel is easy and cheap; use a sheet of Perspex (a.k.a. acrylic) for painting and crayons, or a wooden board covered in chalkboard paint for chalk drawing.  You can even buy ready-made, mountable chalkboards if DIY is not your thing.

Mud kitchens

Mud pies… YUM! Many of us used to use sand buckets and ice cream containers for our mud pie-making extravaganzas, but modern parents have caught on to some great up-cycling trends to make the ‘mud kitchen’ a more serious business these days.

Upcycle an old sink and some wooden pallets to build a mud pie kitchen. Accessorise with a few pots and pans from the camping basket and the kids are in business!

Stacked bricks with boards or wooden sleepers are a great way to DIY a kitchen bench and then mount some shelves with hanging hooks for utensils.

Cubby houses

Kids can spend hours in cubby houses making up all sorts of games and really letting their imaginations run wild. Here’s a lovely recycled cubby house that uses fruit crates.

cubby house backyard
Photo by Gema Saputera on Unsplash

Climbing walls

Do you have an active child and need to constantly tire them out with activities? A climbing wall in the backyard is something that is super fun and can become more challenging over time.

Outdoor cinema

It’s simple to host an outdoor movie night with the family. You can make it as simple as hanging up a sheet, borrowing a mini projector and speaker combo, and hooking it up to your laptop; or you can go all out and invest in your own equipment and a proper projector screen. Then you just need to make some popcorn, throw a picnic blanket down, scatter a few cushions on the ground, and enjoy your outdoor cinema experience.

Swings

Bring the park to your home by installing a swing set in your backyard. If you’ve got a large shady tree with some sturdy branches, this will make for a perfect (and reasonably quick) DIY job. Use a rope or chain, with a smooth plank of wood (sand and paint it to avoid splinters), or try some of the creative swing ideas below.

This pallet swing looks amazing and something tells me that the adults will enjoy it more than the kids. Seriously, what can’t you do with a pallet these days?

If you’re up for a bit of creative DIY, these painted tyres look very eye-catching.

Don’t have a ladder? Get a handyman to safely install your swing for you.

Plant teepee

This idea is so much fun – give the kids some shade in their outdoor playground by creating a green teepee! Climbing beans are awesome for teepees because they grow very quickly, and when they begin to produce a crop they’ll double as a ‘help yourself’ snack for the kids while they’re playing inside. This DIY idea is affordable and relatively beginner-friendly, involving a few poles, wire or twine, seeds, and elbow grease.

Sandpits

Sandpits are a very iconic item in any family backyard. I remember the blue clam one that I had growing up but this one made from a recycled apple crate is more eco-friendly.

Games

Games are great for kids parties and even every day. Connect Four can be something that anyone at any age can play.

Hanging chairs

These look super stylish in your kid’s bedroom or in the backyard where you can suspend them from the awnings.

hanging chair
Photo by Jessie McCall on Unsplash

I hope you’re able to use some of these backyard ideas in your home and if you’d like me to add any more, please let me know in the comments below.