Summers are a great time for enjoying outdoor space. And while coronavirus-related restrictions have and are changing, many have found spending more time in their own outdoor space is quite enjoyable. Here are some tips to transform your backyard into a into a relaxing outdoor oasis, a place of escape where you can unwind, enjoy some fresh air, and have fun with friends and family.

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2. o or Deck - Create your patio or deck to be an extension of your home, inviting you to enjoy warm sunshine, cool breezes and fresh air. Brick or stone are popular for patio surfacing but you can be creative with concrete by adding texture and/or color. Composite decking rather than wooden planks may cost a little more but will stand up better to the elements. Weatherproof furniture is a good idea to ensure longevity.
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4. Lounging – Regular patio furniture is great for entertaining and outdoor dining, but including a cozy place to relax is also nice. A hammock strung between two trees or deck posts makes a great spot for dozing or curling up with a book. A chaise lounge is another idea and cushions add comfort.
5. Plants - Surround your outdoor space with colorful plants and flowers in containers or boxes. Succulents need less watering and provide eye-pleasing greenery. Taller, fuller type plants can provide privacy.
6. Lighting - As days grow shorter, basic lighting helps you to enjoy your backyard the sun goes down. Porch lights illuminate access to the house, candlelight, wall-mounted lights, or dimmable electric lamps are great for dining. Solar power lights or low-voltage lights nicely illuminate steps and walkways and provide safety as well. A mix of lighting sources can create a magical place after dark.
7. Shady Spots – A little shade is welcome in the summer heat. Several options include patio umbrellas, mature trees, retractable awnings, or even arbors or pergolas covered with creeping vines.
8. Vertical Space – If your space is on the smaller side, use the vertical space you have such as walls, fence or railings for displaying plants in pots, growing vines and other eye-catching greenery and flowers. Propping up a ladder and using the rungs to display pots and other décor could be quite attractive.
9. Water Feature - A dramatic focal point could be bubbling birdbath or wall fountain. A black bottom, will create a darker surface that reflects sky and trees, making your outdoor space feel bigger.
10. Outdoor Kitchen – At minimum, a gas barbecue will help make your space easier for al fresco dining. If you have the space, a fancier grill and a countertop for food prep with some a closed storage cabinets will enhance your outdoor cooking space. A small fridge and sink will help make preparation and cleanup even easier.
11. Privacy - Be creative in how you ensure your outdoor space has the privacy you want. Garden walls or fences work well. Lattice work or pergolas covered with vines are more work to maintain, but quite attractive. Frosted panels or outdoor curtains can also work well.
12. Hot Tub - To be able to relax in your own hot tub on a lovely evening at the end of the day is pure luxury, but of course you’ll need to consider whether if your deck or patio is large enough - a typical round hot tub is 6 feet in diameter and takes up about 30 square feet, while a rectangular tub requires about 48 square feet. Also if you have a deck, make sure it can hold the weight, which could be up to two tons.
13. Fireplace or Firepit - Another nice addition to your outdoor space that makes a natural focal point, serves to draw people together and can extend the usefulness of an outdoor living area into cooler weather.
14. Artistic Elements - Fountains, statues, and art enhance the beauty of your outdoor area. Garden statuary and weatherproof art, such as plates, garden plaques, or decorative wrought iron are ornamental touches that help create a welcoming, personalized space for outdoor living.