Inspiring Backyard Ideas

The kitchen may be the heart of the home, and the living room is hands-down the best place to lounge, but there's something special about these backyard ideas that'll make you want to spend quality time outdoors. And whether you have a sprawling backyard and swimming pool or a tiny city terrace, backyard comforts can transcend square footage. Opt for a row of chaise lounges by the pool or a group of Adirondack chairs in an open grass field for group hangs. In any setup, a comfortable outdoor area is the ultimate luxury. Some of the best backyard ideas can make a small patio or side yard look and feel just as impressive as acres of lawn. It's all about maximizing the space you have with a combination of clever storage and functional furniture.

As you're planning new backyard ideas for your own space, another aspect to keep in mind is landscaping. How you landscape your backyard also plays into its overall appeal. If you have a green thumb, why not opt for a full English garden or even a hobby farm? If you're more hands-off, choose native plants that are already used to your area's climate for minimal maintenance. Either way, you can be sure that whatever you invest in the surrounding greenery will boost your home's value.

Fake Your Own Jungle

This apartment terrace looks more like a jungle thanks to strategically placed houseplants and flooring made from faux putting green. This backyard idea proves that you don't need to be on the ground level to enjoy the great outdoors.

Prioritize the View

Rather than install benches, cabinets, or other, taller design elements, Suzannah Charbin opted to complement the marshy environment and chose low furniture for this backyard idea. This way, the view remains open from all angles, even from inside the house.

Go Big at Home

A chimney that extends high above the willow-and-steel pergola calls attention to the dramatic 10-foot-tall “windows” and vineyard views in this lounge by Sheldon Harte.