Looking for a backyard transformation?

Do you want your backyard to feature an unattractive slab of concrete baking in the sun, or would you rather a cool and inviting area promising an afternoon of peace, icy cold drinks, and a cool summer breeze?

Your backyard doesn’t have to be somewhere just for hanging the clothes out. A little clever home improvement in the backyard space can go a long way to adding peace and tranquillity to your home life.

You just need to be inspired to make some backyard improvements. Here are some top ideas. 

1. Home improvements with an outdoor kitchen

If you love eating outdoors to take advantage of the cool summer breezes, then why not take the cooking outside as well. As a home improvement, an outside kitchen will help you avoid adding more heat to the house via a hot oven and give the air-conditioner a break as well.

An outdoor kitchen can be as fancy as you like but it doesn’t have to be. A countertop for food preparation, a couple of hotplates, and a grill will be all that you need for cooking up a storm and a simple job for the builders.

Get your builder to add in some closed storage for utensils, and a few staples like cooking oil, salt, pepper, or any other herbs and spices you use regularly. This way you can have them on hand and won’t need to fetch ingredients from the housebound kitchen continually.

2. Add some privacy

To make your backyard retreat feel more intimate get your builder or landscaper to add some privacy.

Fences are an obvious home improvement choice for concealment from the neighbours’ prying eyes, but garden walls and tall hedges can add to the oasis retreat effect.

You can also use lattice, pergolas, and landscaping to keep your neighbours out of your view.

3. Add some shady retreats

In the winter you can appreciate being able to soak up the rays from the sun, but the sun beating down in the summer can turn any backyard into an unwelcome and sweaty sauna session.

Add in some shade with mature trees, outdoor umbrellas, arbours with planted vines, or a pergola. Retractable awnings can give you the best of both worlds; extend them out in the summer or roll them in during the winter to let the warming rays shine down.

4. Outfit your outdoor area with comfortable furnishings

There are a ton of choices when it comes to outdoor furniture, so you can kit out your backyard retreat with furniture that oozes style and comfort.

Wrought iron and cast iron are heavy and won’t blow around in the wind, wood provides an attractive look for certain decors, and cast aluminum will give off a modern, contemporary vibe.

Synthetic cushions can also provide just as much comfort as the lounge inside while standing up to the weather, are fast drying, and resistant to mould.

And for a touch of class, there are weatherproof table lamps which can extend your enjoyment of the area well into the night.

5. Hot tub or spa? Tough choice!

Friends and neighbours will be plying you with cold beverages and offerings for the barbecue once they notice the hot tub or spa on your back deck. It’s as good an excuse as any to have an impromptu party.

Consider areas which will provide maximum privacy when deciding where to put your new luxurious acquisition.

Ensure it is an area which receives plenty of sunshine or shade depending on your tastes and the climate you live in but still provides easy access to the house.

Hot tubs can weigh up to 2 tons, so you will need to discuss installing a suitable foundation with your local builders.

6. Accessorize

There’s nothing quite like a cozy fire in the middle of winter, and a fireplace will give you access to your backyard all year round.

Fountains, firepits, and fireplaces can all add to the serenity and beauty of an outdoor area.

7. Focus on the view

Patios directly against the house aren’t the greatest idea if the best views are of the side garden. Position your sitting areas so they fit in more of your yard’s best aspect.

These are just a few of the ideas you can use to add extra living space to your home and provide a relaxing retreat after those hectic days at the office.

Always discuss your plans with your local builder, and you’ll soon have a backyard that is inviting and affordable

More Useful Links:

Is It Worth Renovating My Home?

Get The WOW Factor With Your Outdoor Renovation

4 Landscaping Tips This Summer

Home Renovations Sydney