Nice Backyard Landscaping IDEAS

Gardens are among the most sought-after outdoor design elements, and its easy to see why. Gardens are easily customizable to fit every design style and preference from zen, Asian-inspired to romantic English countryside. People are also opting for fruit and vegetable gardens now that organic produce is in high-demand.

Fire Pits: Burning Up the Charts

Fire pits – they’re so hot right now. Adaptable to any space, small or large, these firey outdoor features add a cozy element to any outdoor area. Tabletop fire pits are especially popular due to their small-space friendly design. Find your fire pit design style>

Grills: Your Backyard BBQ HQs

Grills will certainly never go out of style. Sure, you can roast hot dogs and marshmallows over a pit, but for flame-broiled burgers? You gotta fire up that grill. Now, homeowners are more interested in creating fully-equipped outdoor kitchens, complete with mini-fridges, sinks, and, of course, a grill.

Hardscapes: A Lush Landscape’s Perfect Partner

Homeowners and landscaping experts agree: work one or more of the types of hardscape into your backyard for a professionally planned look. Stacked stone retaining walls, paver patios and meandering pathways are just a few of the hottest hardscapes to try. Learn more about these durable outdoor surfaces.

Outdoor Dining Areas: Alfresco, Elevated

Dining areas are a must-have outdoor living feature. After all, everything tastes better when enjoyed in the great outdoors. To ensure maximum comfort, choose comfortable chairs with durable cushions so dinner guests will linger for cocktails and conversation.

Decks: Taking Living Outdoors

To extend your home’s indoor living space into the backyard, decks are a must-have. For a low-maintenance surface that will stand the test of time, opt for composite materials over traditional wood.

Arbors: Stylish Structures

Arbors are looking especially attractive right now. They’re a romantic touch in gardens, and as this example shows, excellent at providing transitions between two spaces.

Pergolas: Made In the Shade

Part of pergolas’ popularity is that they provide structure and shade, yet still manage to feel open and airy. offers a triple-threat here with a pergola, outdoor dining room and fire pit — in the same yard!

Hot Tubs: Take a Dip

Spa features, such as hot tubs, whirlpools and saunas, are among the most popular outdoor recreation amenities. And, it’s easy to see why – who wouldn’t want to sink into this beauty at the end of a long day?

Container Gardens: The Perfect Small Space Solution

Apartment dwellers, rejoice! You too can enjoy an outdoor space that’s beautiful and provides you with fresh flowers and fruits or veggies – you just have to contain it. Experts anticipate that the popularity of container gardening will continue to rise as food costs increase and more and more urbanites embrace the benefits of going organic.

Play Structures: Kid Tested, Mother Approved

Backyards are a kid’s best friend. Play structures like treehouses, swing sets or this seesaw from a backyard featured on can provide hours of fun for children.

Fountains: Water, Featured

Fountains (such as this pretty example) and other ornamental water features are big trends in both gardens and backyard. In addition to being striking focal points, they’re wonderfully musical — a delight for the senses.

Fencing: Good Fences Make Good Neighbors

The old saying that good fences make good neighbors may be true, if fencing’s popularity ranking against other outdoor structures is any indication. Fences are the obvious choice for adding privacy but they also can create a beautiful backdrop for blooming plants.

Patio + Pergola: A Perfect Pair

If you want to enjoy the sunshine, with just a little shade, a patio and pergola make a perfect pair. You can opt for a pergola kit where the lumber is already pre-cut for DIY installation or hire a pro for a custom build.

TVs + Movie Theaters: Scenic Screenings

Miss the experience of seeing flicks at the drive-in? Bring movies to your backyard instead! A projector, screen and surround sound are all you need in the AV department. Theater seats (seen here from ) evoke the feeling of the multiplex. Just add popcorn. See how to make your own outdoor movie screen>

Backyard Bars: Drink In Your Surroundings

Backyard bars, like this example from, are a natural extension of the outdoor dining room trend. They’re great for entertaining, and the extra seating and counter space are desirable features in backyard. Cheers to that! See how to make your own outdoor minibar>

Lighting: Get Your Glow On

If you want to enjoy your yard into the evening hours, add your own illumination. LED and low-voltage lights are trendy now, though there are plenty of pretty options (like tiki torches, string lights and these lanterns from ) that don’t require major installation. Install string lights with this DIY tutorial>

Gazebos: Sweet for a Seat

Gazebos add charm and unction to your yard. This gazebo from doubles as a tea room, thanks to the addition of some weatherized outdoor furniture. Get inspired by these gorgeous gazebos>

Art: Adds Interest

Some statements can be purely decorative. These mounted vintage bikes from dress up an otherwise bland wall for not much money. Outdoor art is not just an afterthought anymore.

Play Structures: Add a Kid-Friendly Zone

Designated backyard areas where kids can be kids are always a hit. This old sailboat upcycled into a nautical sandbox will let your little buccaneer’s imagination set sail. Learn how to make your own with our step-by-step instructions.