8 Backyard Decor Tips to Prepare for Spring

Though it may still be a little on the cold side, spring is just around the corner and, before you know it, you’ll be sitting in your backyard enjoying the sunshine. If the winter months have left your garden looking a little worse for wear, now’s the perfect time to give it some TLC.

From installing outdoor lights to creating your very own alfresco dining area, there’s a lot you can do to enhance the look and usability of your backyard. To help get you started, and get your creative juices flowing, we’ve put together some of our favorite backyard décor ideas.

1. Keep it clean

Just like your house, your backyard will benefit from a thorough spring clean before you start decorating. Sweep up any dry leaves, cut back any dead plants and scrub away any mold or moss that’s grown during the long winter months. Once you’ve got your backyard looking neat and tidy, you can start on the fun part and get decorating.

2. Zone the space

Before you get carried away buying outdoor furniture, you need to have a good think about how you’re going to use the space.

T

he Sorrento L-Shape Sectional Sofa, 3-Seater Sofa, and Lounge Chair Set.

For example, are you going to transform your backyard into an outdoor lounge complete with a chillout space? Is it going to be an alfresco dining area? Or do you want to create a multi-purpose space that serves a variety of functions?

Defining the different areas of your backyard can help when it comes to decorating the area and maximizing its potential. Putting some thought into the future use of the space will also help you narrow down your options when it comes to buying outdoor furniture.

3. Be prepared

If this is the first time you’ve decorated your backyard, you might want to do a little bit of prep work before the main renovation begins. For example, your outdoor dining and lounge furniture will need to be placed on a deck, patio or other firm ground. If you don’t have a suitable space for them to sit, it’s a good idea to get the work done before you start installing your furniture.

4. Find some furniture

Your outdoor tables and chairs are probably going to be the main focal point of your backyard, so it’s well worth putting a little time and effort into finding the perfect pieces.

The Maui Lounge Chair in Taupe creates a cozy outdoor space over at @tinadoodles'.

If you’ve decided on a lounge look, think about pairing a corner sofa with accent chairs. The sofa will make your seating area feel cozy and welcoming, while the chairs will add a splash of color and really bring the space to life.

Alternatively, introduce color and style to your outdoor lounge with a specially designed rug. A great thing about adding a rug to your layout is that it will tie your furnishings together and make your garden feel like an integral part of your home.

If you think an outdoor dining area would work better in your garden, choose a dining table that’s been designed for alfresco use. Pair it with some outdoor dining chairs or, if you want to save space and maximize flexibility, opt for benches instead.

5. Light it up

Illumination is just as important outside as it is in. Placing lights up around your backyard will add to its look, its ambiance and its usability, so why not buy some bulbs and get creative?

String lights hung over a lounge or dining area will give your backyard décor a festival feel, or you can place individual lights around the space to create pools of illumination and highlight the different features of your garden. Generally, it’s best to opt for warm white lights as they have a timeless look and will give your backyard a welcoming feel.

You can save money on your decorative backyard lighting, and make your illumination self-sufficient, by using solar lights. These eco-friendly lights are powered by the sun and come in a great choice of different designs and styles.

6. Use mirrors

Though you might think of mirrors as being just for inside, they actually look fantastic when used in the garden as well. Place a large mirror on your wall or fence to make the space feel bigger and create a focal point for your lounge or dining area. This will give the illusion your backyard is much bigger than it really is.

One of the great things about using mirrors outside is that they reflect the light. So, at night when your backyard is all lit up, you’ll be able to see your illumination beautifully reflected in the glass.

7. A bit of boho

The Sierra Lounge Chairs coupled with the Sierra Coffee Table create the perfect boho vibes.

Backyards should be stylish but relaxing spaces. If you want to make sure your garden has a welcoming, laid back feel, why not go for a bit of a boho theme? Investing in rattan furniture instead of standard pieces will help you create the look you’re going for. Adding lots of large plants in colorful pots will also help your space to look eclectic and attractive.

8. Make it low maintenance

• If you know you’re not going to have time to maintain your backyard during the spring and summer months, try to make it as low maintenance as possible. Use treated wood or stone flooring, drought resistant plants and trees that won’t drop their leaves. Lay mulch or weed matting down on your flower beds to keep the area looking tidy throughout the year.
  
  

Having a stylish, comfortable and welcoming area to relax and socialize will really add to your home and help you make the most of the sunny weather. So why not give your backyard the love it deserves and make this summer one to remember?