There’s nothing quite like a beautiful summer day! Whether you’re into swimming at the lake, going to outdoor sporting events or concerts, playing golf, or taking long walks, every great summer activity has one thing in common — taking advantage of the warm weather.

But, enjoying summer weather doesn’t mean you have to stray far from home, especially if you have your own great outdoor space. In fact, nothing promotes summer fun and relaxation quite like an amazing backyard. 

If your outdoor spaces aren’t up to snuff, it might be time for you to seek out a little backyard inspiration. You might be wondering, what’s the main difference between a great outdoor space and one that’s just okay? The answer: purpose. Great backyards are very functional, with designated areas that invite you in to enjoy summertime activities, such as gathering around a bonfire or lounging around with a few drinks.

While expansive green grass can be nice, a bare lawn often feels generic — leaving something to be desired in terms of function and character. Adding a few purposeful spaces to your yard will not only maximize your summertime enjoyment, but also increase your property value. Should you ever sell your house, buyers will view your fabulous backyard as an extension of living space, giving you a great return on your investment.

With so many reasons why you should enhance your backyard, let’s focus on the how. Here’s how to make the most of your outdoor spaces.

Paths & Patios

The best way to designate spaces for walking and gathering? Paths and patios! They not only look appealing, but emphasize how you should use the space. These can be made from poured (and even stamped and colored) concrete, pavers, bricks, or stone. Some options, such as pavers or bricks, can be much more affordable, especially if you install them yourself — although we certainly recommend a little research and planning before you try.

Beautiful, winding paths often have an enchanting power, ushering you and your guests through your property. They’re not only charming, but they invite you to explore your yard in a way that open grass simply can’t. 

Patios, on the other hand, are the ultimate gathering spaces. Add a little furniture, a grill, and a built-in or portable fire pit, and suddenly your patio will become the entertainment hub of your property — and maybe even your neighborhood — facilitating many lively summer get-togethers. If done well, they’re attractive, alluring, and highly functional. 

Plants & Landscaping

Add some life to your backyard — literally! Plants are a great way to give your outdoor spaces more character, especially if they flower. Choose a few of your favorites, taking into consideration their ideal growing conditions, and let them thrive in your outdoor spaces. They’ll give your backyard a full, complete look, especially when paired with other landscaping elements.

To finish the look, create a landscaping bed — or enhance your existing one — using fresh mulch or gravel to further define your garden area. This will look very clean, purposeful, and presentable, while contrasting nicely with your lawn. For an even more finished look, consider adding some edging around the border — available in many styles and materials.

Outdoor Furniture

Speaking of furniture, your backyard has nearly limitless furnishing possibilities. Sure, patios are an obvious choice for outdoor dining sets and cushioned chairs and couches, but seating areas can be created anywhere. 

Whether putting a bench by your garden, placing a love seat in amongst the landscaping, or creating a little nook in the corner, any purposeful seating area will be an asset to your yard, helping you utilize the space. It’s also possible to create little secondary patios to accommodate additional seating areas, especially for parts of the yard where it’s tough to grow grass.

Lawn Ornaments & Decorations

Great yard art can add a splash of color and style to your yard — and no, we’re not talking about pink flamingos (but, if that’s your thing, who are we to stop you?). From sculptures to fountains, bird baths, statues, pots, and more, there are countless ways to add a little pizzazz to your outdoor spaces. Look for something that speaks to you, tying into the backyard theme you’ve chosen. You can’t go wrong!

Mood Lighting

You can’t think of summer without thinking of beautiful summer nights. If you ever want to hang out under the stars in your backyard, consider finding some great outdoor mood lighting. This will add a special touch to your outdoor spaces, giving them some serious ambiance. 

Pick up some in-ground lights and place them around your landscaping, paths or patios, or even a few spotlights to shine up against your house or nearby trees. You can even hang some string lights above your gathering spaces, providing a little bit of practice light and a whole lot of charm.

Outdoor Candles

Candles are soothing indoors, but even more magical outdoors! You can simply bring an indoor candle outside for the night, or buy a special lantern or outdoor candle holder. Lanterns and outdoor candle holders often feature fascinating designs, often made with light play in mind. So find one that you love, and it’ll be sure to make a great addition to summer nights.

Trellises & Pergolas

Looking for even more visual appeal? Exploring getting a trellis or pergola! While so many landscaping solutions and yard decorations live at ground level, trellises and pergolas make a big statement by stretching toward the sky.

Trellises are available in a number of styles, materials, and colors, but they all offer beautiful latticing. Some are arched and meant to be placed over a path or an area of interest, while others are flat and designed strictly for vine growth. Either way, the latticing offers a distinct and sophisticated look.

Pergolas can sometimes resemble oversized trellises, but they’re meant to be more functional — providing a layer of shade and protection from the elements. They’re often made of stained wood for a beautiful, natural aesthetic. Pergolas make stunning additions to porches, patios, and seating areas.

Hammocks & Hanging Chairs

What’s better than hanging out in your yard? Quite literally hanging out in your yard! Hammocks and hanging chairs are comfortable and stylish, with just the right balance of fun and relaxation. When suspended from trees, they allow you to be a part of nature, while offering the perfect spot to curl up with a book — or to take an afternoon nap. 

Are you ready to start transforming your backyard yet? Whether you’ve got a big transformation in mind or you just want to make small improvements, Turn Style can help you make the most of your outdoor spaces. With a rapidly changing inventory, you never know what sort of outdoor dining sets, patio chairs, lanterns, lights, or lawn ornaments will pop up. 

Head to your local Turn Style today to get started on your new backyard.