9 Steps to Transform a Small Backyard into the Perfect Relaxation Spot

If you’re lucky enough to live in a house that comes with a backyard, no matter how small, you have an incredible opportunity to transform it into the perfect hideaway.

With a clever layout, the right outdoor furniture, and good lighting, even a small backyard can become a dream outdoor space that will make you feel like you’re on vacation. Moreover, if you’re a skilled do-it-yourselfer, you can save a lot of money by doing this backyard makeover yourself.

Are you ready to build the ultimate backyard for relaxation? If so, here are the steps to guide you on your way.

Assess Your Space

Before you roll up your sleeves and dive into the project, take some time to assess your backyard. Measure the available space accurately, noting any existing features or problem areas. Once you have a clear understanding of your canvas, start crafting a well-thought-out plan.

Define Your Goals for the Space

The next step is to define your goals for the backyard. What's the main purpose for this space? Are you looking to create a cozy reading area? Will you do some entertaining or cooking? Clarifying your objectives will guide your design decisions throughout the process. You may be surprised at how much you can fit in your small backyard with some zoning and appropriate furniture placement.

Design the Layout

With your goals in mind, it's time to design the layout of your backyard. Think about how you can create distinct zones for various purposes. For a small backyard, you can create depth with different layers to make the space look larger than it really is. For instance, you might want a sunken outdoor living space and some steps that lead to other seating or featured areas.

There are various free tools and software available to help you visualize your design and plan the placement of these zones effectively.

Clear the Space

Once the planning stage is done, it’s time to get to work. Start by decluttering and clearing the backyard. Next, remove any debris and unwanted furniture, including old patio tables and chairs or accessories that may be cluttering the space. You may also need to demolish structures that won’t fit the new layout, such as an old gazebo or trellis. Remember to follow safety precautions during this phase to ensure a clean slate for your project.

Prepare the Lot for Landscaping

If your goal for your tiny lot is to create a thriving garden, you need proper soil preparation. For a small lot, it’s possible to do the soil testing yourself. The most important thing you need to know is if you need amendments, such as adding limestone for soil that’s too acidic.

Aside from soil preparation, you also need to pay attention to the drainage. Are there parts of your backyard where the water pools? You may need to address these issues to prevent waterlogged soil.

Install the Hardscaping

After addressing soil and drainage, you can tackle the hardscaping. Hardscape elements are the decking, pavers, and other structures that form the foundation of your new landscaping.

For the hardscaping, select materials that match your design vision and climate conditions. Keep in mind that installing hardscape features may require some DIY skills, so be prepared for a bit of heavy lifting or consider seeking professional help if needed.

Plant Your Greenery

After the paths have been laid out and the decking completed, you can finally add greenery to your space. Pick plants that are suitable for a small backyard. Instead of plants that spread out horizontally, choose those that grow more vertically to save on space. Aside from the size, you should also consider the climate, maintenance, and light requirements of each plant. Moreover, make sure to account for proper spacing to ensure healthy growth.

Set Up Your Outdoor Living Space

Creating an outdoor living space is essential for relaxation. If your budget gets too tight, you can always opt to buy second hand furnitures, such as those that you can find in LookingFour. However, make sure the size of the furniture fits within the limited space. Better yet, choose furniture that serves more than one function to maximize the area. For instance, an ottoman that doubles as a storage box or a picnic table that folds into a garden bench.

Add the Lighting and Accessories

In a space makeover, sometimes people neglect the lighting. That’s a big mistake, as lighting can affect the ambiance and overall look of a space. For your backyard, the best choice would be string lights. This classic addition livens up any outdoor space, providing a welcoming vibe that’s fit for a party.

You can also put spotlights to highlight special features of your new backyard, such as a mini fountain or a lovely tree. Lastly, personalize the space with accessories like decorative pots, artwork, and outdoor rugs that reflect your style and personality.

Transforming your small backyard into a quiet retreat takes a bit of imagination, elbow grease, and determination. If you have the time and the patience to do this project yourself, you will be rewarded in the end with an outdoor space like no other. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative, and get ready to experience the serenity of your transformed backyard.