You’ve daydreamed about your perfect lawn and backyard for some time. Now, it’s time to turn those dreams into reality. Here are a few ways to do just that.

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Decks

A deck is a versatile addition to a home and can be designed in a variety of ways to suit the needs and aesthetics of your yard. For example, a deck can be built to include a BBQ grill and dining area, an outdoor bar, or even a custom-built pool! Getting the most out of your deck and backyard requires thoughtful planning. To start, consider the likes and needs of your family and guests. Likes are based on what you want your deck to look like, while needs involve practicality, usability and safety.

For instance, if you are having a large party, you’ll need enough room to fit everyone comfortably as well as any other gear you may have like chairs, tables, and an outdoor bar. You’ll also need a staircase to safely exit the space when needed.

Decks are increasingly being used as a space for barbecues and family gatherings. They’re also being incorporated into hotels and office buildings as open-air cafeterias and lounges. If you have any special landscaping or notable features on your property, a custom deck is the perfect way to highlight them.

When you’re ready to start building your dream deck, the best thing to do is hire a professional contractor who can take care of the details for you. They’ll know how much the project is going to cost and make sure you stay within your budget. They’ll also handle the necessary permits and inspections for you, making your construction process as stress-free as possible.

Sheds

Sheds aren’t just for storage; they can represent the personality of the owner and be a focal point in the yard. They can serve a variety of purposes, from a playhouse for the kids to an artist’s studio, a backyard office, or even a personal bar. Sheds are highly customizable and can be designed to match the trim, siding, roofing, and design of your home. Decorative options like dormers, shutters, finials, and weathervanes can be added to enhance the shed’s exterior. Practical options like a potter’s bench for mixing soil and ventilation systems can be included in the design.

If you’re willing to invest a bit more, sheds can even be transformed into tiny living spaces. These shed homes are known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and must follow local rules for construction. A professional can help you determine the best option for your property, including what type of structure and materials to use.

Wood, resin, and metal are all popular shed building materials. Each offers its own set of benefits, including price, durability, and assembly time. Once you’ve selected a material, the next step is to decide what layout and features you’d like in your shed. Some common design elements include doors and windows, a loft or sleeping area, and insulation. You’ll also want to consider the location and size of your shed, as well as the cost of construction and site preparation.

To make your shed a more inviting space, add some cozy furnishings and decor. A plush area rug and some throw blankets can instantly transform the shed into a relaxing retreat. For a more dramatic look, paint the shed in bright hues or incorporate handmade fabric artwork to create a whimsical touch.

Outdoor Kitchens

A full outdoor kitchen makes it easy to host family and friends for alfresco meals. Whether you want to grill hamburgers, fire-roast pizza, or prepare a steak and vegetable medley, you’ll find the equipment needed in a well-appointed cookspace. To help you choose the best layout and design for your kitchen, consider what kind of entertaining and cooking style you enjoy, then select the right appliances, materials, and accessories to complement your taste.

To add extra comfort to your patio kitchen, consider installing an outdoor fireplace to provide warmth and ambiance. A fireplace also helps to create a defined dining space for guests to gather around, and it can be a focal point that brings your patio together as a cohesive whole.

An outdoor kitchen should include plenty of storage to keep essentials close at hand. When planning your layout, be sure to leave room for trash and recycling bins, cleaning supplies, and tableware (like dishes, utensils, and glassware). If you don’t have built-in cabinets or drawers, bring in furniture like a standalone island or rolling cart to boost organizational capacity.

For a modern aesthetic, opt for sleek stainless steel appliances and neutral colors that complement the existing home architecture and landscaping. Natural materials and simple lines define the space and make it feel like a true extension of the home.

To bring a natural vibe to an outdoor kitchen, surround the cooking area with abundant greenery. In this luxurious outdoor kitchen and dining space, a neat line of arborvitae frames the grilling station, offering privacy and visual interest. A long stretch of concrete countertops doubles as food prep and a serving bar, and the stacked stone cladding and cypress cabinets offer a timeless, weather-resistant style.

Pergolas

Pergolas are the perfect way to add beauty and interest to any outdoor space. They can create shade on a deck or patio, serve as an entryway into your yard, and even grow vines to create a natural roof for an outdoor lounge area. At Backyard Discovery, we have a number of options for you to choose from, including cedar pergolas and modern steel structures. We can also install a variety of decor and accent pieces to personalize your pergola to fit any backyard space.

One of the most popular uses for a pergola is to provide a focal point around a pool. This combines two of the most popular HGTV-approved backyard trends: an outdoor kitchen and a relaxing swimming spot. When placed over a pool, pergolas create an eye-catching color contrast between the white of the structure and the tan of the surrounding landscape.

Another great use for a pergola is to create an outdoor dining area or sitting space. This is a simple, inexpensive way to create an inviting space that is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing with your family. If you want to keep the costs low, we recommend pairing your pergola with a simple outdoor kitchen that includes a grill and some picnic tables.

Before installing your pergola, think about how you plan to use it. Will you be dining in it, lounging alone, or hosting large parties? This will help you determine how big a space you need and the style of decor you’ll want to add.

You should also consider whether you want to assemble your pergola yourself or hire a professional. If you’re planning on assembling it yourself, Backyard Discovery offers kits that include step-by-step instructions and a free BILT app to make the process easier. Depending on your level of expertise, you can often assemble a pergola in just a few hours with a helper.

Gazebos

Gazebos are a great way to frame an area of your garden, or create a relaxing space where you can sit and enjoy the view. These structures can also be used as a spot for entertaining guests, and are usually built from durable materials such as wood or metal. They can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can often accommodate other hardscape features such as paths or walls. The design and style of a gazebo should compliment the style of your home, and blend in with the surrounding garden and landscaping.

If you’re looking for a way to add some privacy to your gazebo, consider adding lattice walls on one or more of the sides. This will allow vines to grow up and over the structure, creating a private hideaway where you can relax by yourself or with friends. A gazebo is also the perfect place to install a hot tub. You can then use it as a place to soak up the sun during the day and stargaze at night.

Another consideration when planning for a gazebo is the climate where you live. If your yard is prone to harsh winter weather, it’s a good idea to cover the structure when not in use. This will protect it from heavy snow and ice, which could cause the gazebo to collapse. You can also add insulation to the roof of your gazebo to make it more comfortable during the coldest temperatures.

Upgrades are a great way to enhance your gazebo and make it a space that you will love spending time in for years to come. Blogger Liz Marie added a wood bead chandelier, patio furniture, a small white buffet and plants to this farmhouse-style gazebo to create a tranquil outdoor living room.