The Top 68 Diy Backyard Ideas

“I don’t have to take a trip around the world or be on a yacht in the Mediterranean to have happiness. I can find it in the little things, like looking out into my backyard and seeing deer in the fields.” – Queen Latifah When was the last time you poured yourself a cold drink and hung out in the backyard? Why not turn this part of your property into a pleasant place to be? You could have a romantic garden, an outdoor living room, a reading nook, or a large dining area. The options are limitless when you’re doing the renovation yourself. Perhaps your backyard is small, and you want to make the most of your limited space. Or maybe you have a large and sprawling backyard with plenty of space for several ideas. Check out these DIY backyard ideas and get inspired to upgrade your property.

Budget The wonderful thing about DIY landscaping ideas is that you don’t have to have a large budget to accomplish them. Because you’re doing all of the work yourself, you save on labor costs. Then many of them show you how to use affordable material to make something amazing. There are also several that use recycled materials that are upcycled into something amazing. Source: @lisa.mc_.pharm_ via Instagram Build a simple DIY hammock stand and give your backyard an instant upgrade. This one project doesn’t require a ton of space. It’ll give you a relaxing place you can lay out and meditate, take a nap, or read a book. Get in the hammock at night and gaze up at the stars.

2. Deck You can build your own deck with a little know-how. You’ll want to start by checking out backyard deck ideas to get an idea of what you want to build. Then mark out the area in your backyard where you plan to build your deck. Pull out any landscaping that you currently have and level the ground. Source: @athomewithquita via Instagram Source: @brihorozewski via Instagram Source: @dashaspassions via Instagram Source: @goodygetright via Instagram Source: @heartandhammock via Instagram Source: @rebeccamarie8 via Instagram Source: @redbarn_resto via Instagram If you aren’t ready to build a custom deck from scratch, you can buy a kit. It will come with everything you need to build your deck. Consider how high off the ground you want to build your deck. If it’s too tall, you’ll need a railing. 3. Firepit Add a firepit to your backyard and enjoy the outdoors all year long. Having a backyard patio with a firepit creates warmth and light in the winter. You have two options, buy a portable fire pit or build a concrete fire pit. If you aren’t ready to commit to a full fire pit, use a fire pit dining table. This is perfect for creating a modern fire feature without having a full fire pit taking up space in your backyard. Source: @adoryable93 via Instagram Source: @craftomaniac via Instagram Source: @thechampagnepatio via Instagram Source: @updatemycape via Instagram Place wicker patio furniture around your fire pit to give people a place to sit. Keep them far enough away to prevent people from getting too hot. Lay gravel down to create a solid walkway and reduce the risk of fire from stray sparks.

4. Garden Create a garden escape in your backyard and enjoy beautiful blooms and delicious produce. Check out backyard garden ideas to figure out which garden design would work the best in your backyard. Source: @0llah_la via Instagram Source: @jenamana via Instagram Source: @jenno_cooks via Instagram Source: @kenzie.conrad via Instagram Source: @milgarthhome via Instagram Source: @n_nolen via Instagram Source: @orchardhouse_farmhouse via Instagram Source: @thecraftycatsman via Instagram An English garden has a whimsical and almost romantic feel. Choose a variety of flowers and build a stone path that winds through your backyard. A rose garden will require a ton of work, but it is well worth it to have a garden full of elegant roses. A Japanese garden is perfect for finding your zen. Add water features and build stone structures that blend with your mossy ground cover and blooming trees.

5. Landscaping You can do your landscaping in your backyard. If you’ve never attempted your own landscaping, check out some backyard landscaping ideas to help you get started. Low maintenance landscaping is a smart choice if you don’t have a green thumb. These plants require minimal trimming, watering, and fertilizing. Source: @gardenguy_ via Instagram Source: @mrs.p_dream_home_creation via Instagram Source: @synlawncentralcalifornia via Instagram Choose plants that are suited for your climate. Warm and humid climates can foster tropical plants. More arid climates are best suited for drought resistant landscaping. Using well-suited plants for your climate increases the likelihood of your backyard continuing to look beautiful for years to come. 6. Oasis Create a tropical oasis in your backyard with lush plants. Give your backyard a tropical feel with large palms around your yard’s edge and then smaller bushes and blooms layered in front. Add a fountain or some other moving water feature to create a natural soundtrack. Source: @canopyhomegarden via Instagram Source: @clarespartz.brokerhomestager via Instagram Source: @maypat320 via Instagram Use tropical hardwood for building your deck. Get inspired by tropical resorts with their large patios and luxurious furniture. Hang large bulb string lights high overhead for plenty of ambient light. Build a pergola frame over the patio and use fabric to create an overhead cover or side curtains. This allows filtered light through. 7. Pallet Old pallets are perfect for building all kinds of structures in your backyard. Start by laying them down and building a platform or raised deck. You’ll need to fill the gaps in the pallets with additional planks. This creates a continuous solid surface across the top of your pallet deck. Source: @labanorbistro via Instagram Source: @peppermint_kidnapper via Instagram You can also build furniture out of your pallets. Stack a couple of pallets and place three around them in a U shape. Now add a seat and back cushion, and you’re ready for lounging. You can quickly attach the pallets with screws or even reinforce them with corner brackets. 8. Patio Turn your concrete patio into a comfortable and welcoming space. Modern backyard patio ideas show you how to turn your patio into an outdoor living room. Start by hiding the patio with patio pavers, outdoor carpet, or wood tiles. Then lay down an outdoor rug and arrange furniture around it to create a living room feel. Source: @afeathered.house_ via Instagram Source: @btrscotch5 via Instagram Source: @gremilyemily via Instagram Source: @kaylanlanham via Instagram Source: @meganoz14 via Instagram Source: @updatemycape via Instagram Source: @wheremymindwonders.design via Instagram Source: @zarinahome_ via Instagram Your patio landscaping should be plant boxes that line the edge to create a plant privacy wall. You can also arrange large pots at the corners with tall plants with large leaves. These can also create a sense of intimacy. Arrange seasonal blooms in an outdoor vase to place on a table.

9. Pergolas Build a pergola gazebo and create a unique space in your backyard. A pergola awning works well when you build it off of your home. It’ll provide you with coverage so you can enjoy an open space that flows from inside to outside in an easy movement. Source: @barbieplankenhorn via Instagram Source: @barbieplankenhorn via Instagram Source: @bespokeprojects_byeddie via Instagram Source: @danhyatt2 via Instagram Source: @favreblokprints via Instagram Source: @jniedzwecki via Instagram Source: @katrina.realestate via Instagram Source: @lafrenchcabane via Instagram Using pergola patio covers lets you use your outdoor space more throughout the year. Choose one that has movable slats on it. Manual ones have you pulling a chord or twisting a handle to rotate the slats. If you have the budget, install automated slats that let you adjust them at the touch of a button. 10. Playhouse If you have children, then consider turning your backyard into the ultimate playground. There are playhouse kits that you can buy and build yourself. They can be affordable and small with a simple swing and slide. Or they could be an elaborate setup with several towers, swings, slides, and rope climbing structures. Source: @twinningandmommying via Instagram If you’re experienced with woodworking, you can build your own playhouse. Don’t try to use salvaged or reclaimed wood for this. These tend to have splinters and sharp edges that could injure someone. Once you have your wood, you could go to work building a mini she-shed that looks like a perfect miniature cottage. 11. Pool If you have a pool in your backyard, then consider pool landscaping ideas. These will create privacy and tie the entire backyard space together into a cohesive design. Consider building a deck around the pool. You can place teak patio furniture on it. Then arrange a few large potted tropical plants. Source: @agbigham via Instagram Source: @gragan_photo via Instagram Source: @mrsmamabritt via Instagram Source: @summerwood_products via Instagram Source: @vaughnhillhome via Instagram Add an overhead cover in one area of your backyard. This will give you an escape from the hot summer sun while you’re enjoying a day in the pool. Place a table and chairs in the shaded area for a cool escape. Lounging chairs are best for the open deck as these are perfect for working on your tan. 12. Small When you have limited space, you’ll want to focus on small backyard landscaping ideas. They’ll show you how to make the most of your space while also not feeling cramped. Focus on how you want to utilize the space and make the most of it. Source: @59.bungalows via Instagram Source: @camille.kurtz_ via Instagram Source: @capcreationsjewelry via Instagram Source: @casacoluch via Instagram Source: @findhomesweetazhome via Instagram Source: @geraldine.grace_ via Instagram Source: @phillygarden via Instagram Source: @smilecrescent via Instagram Source: @stayathomewithchelsea via Instagram Source: @thefontaineflat via Instagram Source: @urban.maali_ via Instagram You could turn your small backyard into a peaceful garden, outdoor dining area, living room design, or some other entertainment area. Use features, decor, and smaller outdoor furniture. This will help your backyard to feel comfortable and not overstuffed. A smaller couch, round table, or smaller plants will work well. 13. More DIY Backyard Ideas Source: @amandahagelmusic via Instagram Source: @frkfelle via Instagram Source: @heyo.anne_ via Instagram Source: @lafrenchcabane via Instagram Source: @nicolelucevichome via Instagram Source: @ourdiydutchcolonial via Instagram Source: @tayashomepaige via Instagram

Budget The wonderful thing about DIY landscaping ideas is that you don’t have to have a large budget to accomplish them. Because you’re doing all of the work yourself, you save on labor costs. Then many of them show you how to use affordable material to make something amazing. There are also several that use recycled materials that are upcycled into something amazing. Source: @lisa.mc_.pharm_ via Instagram Build a simple DIY hammock stand and give your backyard an instant upgrade. This one project doesn’t require a ton of space. It’ll give you a relaxing place you can lay out and meditate, take a nap, or read a book. Get in the hammock at night and gaze up at the stars.

When was the last time you poured yourself a cold drink and hung out in the backyard? Why not turn this part of your property into a pleasant place to be? You could have a romantic garden, an outdoor living room, a reading nook, or a large dining area. The options are limitless when you’re doing the renovation yourself.

Perhaps your backyard is small, and you want to make the most of your limited space. Or maybe you have a large and sprawling backyard with plenty of space for several ideas. Check out these DIY backyard ideas and get inspired to upgrade your property.

1. Budget

The wonderful thing about DIY landscaping ideas is that you don’t have to have a large budget to accomplish them. Because you’re doing all of the work yourself, you save on labor costs. Then many of them show you how to use affordable material to make something amazing. There are also several that use recycled materials that are upcycled into something amazing.

Source: @lisa.mc_.pharm_ via Instagram

Build a simple DIY hammock stand and give your backyard an instant upgrade. This one project doesn’t require a ton of space. It’ll give you a relaxing place you can lay out and meditate, take a nap, or read a book. Get in the hammock at night and gaze up at the stars.

2. Deck

You can build your own deck with a little know-how. You’ll want to start by checking out backyard deck ideas to get an idea of what you want to build. Then mark out the area in your backyard where you plan to build your deck. Pull out any landscaping that you currently have and level the ground.

Source: @athomewithquita via Instagram

Source: @brihorozewski via Instagram

Source: @dashaspassions via Instagram

Source: @goodygetright via Instagram

Source: @heartandhammock via Instagram

Source: @rebeccamarie8 via Instagram

Source: @redbarn_resto via Instagram

If you aren’t ready to build a custom deck from scratch, you can buy a kit. It will come with everything you need to build your deck. Consider how high off the ground you want to build your deck. If it’s too tall, you’ll need a railing.

3. Firepit

Add a firepit to your backyard and enjoy the outdoors all year long. Having a backyard patio with a firepit creates warmth and light in the winter. You have two options, buy a portable fire pit or build a concrete fire pit. If you aren’t ready to commit to a full fire pit, use a fire pit dining table. This is perfect for creating a modern fire feature without having a full fire pit taking up space in your backyard.

Source: @adoryable93 via Instagram

Source: @craftomaniac via Instagram

Source: @thechampagnepatio via Instagram

Source: @updatemycape via Instagram

Place wicker patio furniture around your fire pit to give people a place to sit. Keep them far enough away to prevent people from getting too hot. Lay gravel down to create a solid walkway and reduce the risk of fire from stray sparks.

4. Garden

Create a garden escape in your backyard and enjoy beautiful blooms and delicious produce. Check out backyard garden ideas to figure out which garden design would work the best in your backyard.

Source: @0llah_la via Instagram

Source: @jenamana via Instagram

Source: @jenno_cooks via Instagram

Source: @kenzie.conrad via Instagram

Source: @milgarthhome via Instagram

Source: @n_nolen via Instagram

Source: @orchardhouse_farmhouse via Instagram

Source: @thecraftycatsman via Instagram

An English garden has a whimsical and almost romantic feel. Choose a variety of flowers and build a stone path that winds through your backyard.

A rose garden will require a ton of work, but it is well worth it to have a garden full of elegant roses. A Japanese garden is perfect for finding your zen. Add water features and build stone structures that blend with your mossy ground cover and blooming trees.

5. Landscaping

You can do your landscaping in your backyard. If you’ve never attempted your own landscaping, check out some backyard landscaping ideas to help you get started. Low maintenance landscaping is a smart choice if you don’t have a green thumb. These plants require minimal trimming, watering, and fertilizing.

Source: @gardenguy_ via Instagram

Source: @mrs.p_dream_home_creation via Instagram

Source: @synlawncentralcalifornia via Instagram

Choose plants that are suited for your climate. Warm and humid climates can foster tropical plants. More arid climates are best suited for drought resistant landscaping. Using well-suited plants for your climate increases the likelihood of your backyard continuing to look beautiful for years to come.

6. Oasis

Create a tropical oasis in your backyard with lush plants. Give your backyard a tropical feel with large palms around your yard’s edge and then smaller bushes and blooms layered in front. Add a fountain or some other moving water feature to create a natural soundtrack.

Source: @canopyhomegarden via Instagram

Source: @clarespartz.brokerhomestager via Instagram

Source: @maypat320 via Instagram

Use tropical hardwood for building your deck. Get inspired by tropical resorts with their large patios and luxurious furniture. Hang large bulb string lights high overhead for plenty of ambient light. Build a pergola frame over the patio and use fabric to create an overhead cover or side curtains. This allows filtered light through.

7. Pallet

Old pallets are perfect for building all kinds of structures in your backyard. Start by laying them down and building a platform or raised deck. You’ll need to fill the gaps in the pallets with additional planks. This creates a continuous solid surface across the top of your pallet deck.

Source: @labanorbistro via Instagram

Source: @peppermint_kidnapper via Instagram

You can also build furniture out of your pallets. Stack a couple of pallets and place three around them in a U shape. Now add a seat and back cushion, and you’re ready for lounging. You can quickly attach the pallets with screws or even reinforce them with corner brackets.

8. Patio

Turn your concrete patio into a comfortable and welcoming space. Modern backyard patio ideas show you how to turn your patio into an outdoor living room. Start by hiding the patio with patio pavers, outdoor carpet, or wood tiles. Then lay down an outdoor rug and arrange furniture around it to create a living room feel.

Source: @afeathered.house_ via Instagram

Source: @btrscotch5 via Instagram

Source: @gremilyemily via Instagram

Source: @kaylanlanham via Instagram

Source: @meganoz14 via Instagram

Source: @wheremymindwonders.design via Instagram

Source: @zarinahome_ via Instagram

Your patio landscaping should be plant boxes that line the edge to create a plant privacy wall. You can also arrange large pots at the corners with tall plants with large leaves. These can also create a sense of intimacy. Arrange seasonal blooms in an outdoor vase to place on a table.

9. Pergolas

Build a pergola gazebo and create a unique space in your backyard. A pergola awning works well when you build it off of your home. It’ll provide you with coverage so you can enjoy an open space that flows from inside to outside in an easy movement.

Source: @barbieplankenhorn via Instagram

Source: @bespokeprojects_byeddie via Instagram

Source: @danhyatt2 via Instagram

Source: @favreblokprints via Instagram

Source: @jniedzwecki via Instagram

Source: @katrina.realestate via Instagram

Source: @lafrenchcabane via Instagram

Using pergola patio covers lets you use your outdoor space more throughout the year. Choose one that has movable slats on it. Manual ones have you pulling a chord or twisting a handle to rotate the slats. If you have the budget, install automated slats that let you adjust them at the touch of a button.

10. Playhouse

If you have children, then consider turning your backyard into the ultimate playground. There are playhouse kits that you can buy and build yourself. They can be affordable and small with a simple swing and slide. Or they could be an elaborate setup with several towers, swings, slides, and rope climbing structures.

Source: @twinningandmommying via Instagram

If you’re experienced with woodworking, you can build your own playhouse. Don’t try to use salvaged or reclaimed wood for this. These tend to have splinters and sharp edges that could injure someone. Once you have your wood, you could go to work building a mini she-shed that looks like a perfect miniature cottage.

11. Pool

If you have a pool in your backyard, then consider pool landscaping ideas. These will create privacy and tie the entire backyard space together into a cohesive design. Consider building a deck around the pool. You can place teak patio furniture on it. Then arrange a few large potted tropical plants.

Source: @agbigham via Instagram

Source: @gragan_photo via Instagram

Source: @mrsmamabritt via Instagram

Source: @summerwood_products via Instagram

Source: @vaughnhillhome via Instagram

Add an overhead cover in one area of your backyard. This will give you an escape from the hot summer sun while you’re enjoying a day in the pool. Place a table and chairs in the shaded area for a cool escape. Lounging chairs are best for the open deck as these are perfect for working on your tan.

12. Small

When you have limited space, you’ll want to focus on small backyard landscaping ideas. They’ll show you how to make the most of your space while also not feeling cramped. Focus on how you want to utilize the space and make the most of it.

Source: @59.bungalows via Instagram

Source: @camille.kurtz_ via Instagram

Source: @capcreationsjewelry via Instagram

Source: @casacoluch via Instagram

Source: @findhomesweetazhome via Instagram

Source: @geraldine.grace_ via Instagram

Source: @phillygarden via Instagram

Source: @smilecrescent via Instagram

Source: @stayathomewithchelsea via Instagram

Source: @thefontaineflat via Instagram

Source: @urban.maali_ via Instagram

You could turn your small backyard into a peaceful garden, outdoor dining area, living room design, or some other entertainment area. Use features, decor, and smaller outdoor furniture. This will help your backyard to feel comfortable and not overstuffed. A smaller couch, round table, or smaller plants will work well.

13. More DIY Backyard Ideas

Source: @amandahagelmusic via Instagram

Source: @frkfelle via Instagram

Source: @heyo.anne_ via Instagram

Source: @nicolelucevichome via Instagram

Source: @ourdiydutchcolonial via Instagram

Source: @tayashomepaige via Instagram

                        How do I design my own backyard?

Start by creating a scale drawing of your backyard. Then sketch in the elements that you want. Determine how everything will fit together and if it will look good while also remaining functional. Add a sitting place for entertaining. Install walkways to make navigating the backyard easier. Locate utilities to prevent causing damage.

                        How can I make my yard look nice for cheap?

Try to do all of the work yourself. This saves you on expensive labor costs. Then look for ways you can repurpose or recycle materials. Buying items used, at yards sales, or picking up free items will save you a ton.

                        What are the seven principles of landscape design?

Seven principles apply to great landscape design. They are simplicity, variety, balance, emphasis, sequence, scale, and unity. Edit your design to remove elements that do not improve your backyard or make an impact. Choose a variety of shapes and sizes to create visual interest. Visually balance everything for an appealing design. Scale your design to fit the space. Finally, ensure everything makes sense together and is unified in a single design.

                        How do I design my own backyard?

                        How can I make my yard look nice for cheap?

                        What are the seven principles of landscape design?

1. Budget#

2. Deck#

3. Firepit#

4. Garden#

5. Landscaping#

6. Oasis#

7. Pallet#

8. Patio#

9. Pergolas#

10. Playhouse#

11. Pool#

12. Small#

13. More DIY Backyard Ideas#