55 Stunning Backyard Decor Ideas to Add Pizzazz to Your Space
You don't need to blow your budget to incorporate major style into your al fresco setup.
Lucky enough to have a backyard to call your very own? Then you'll definitely want to make the most of the space and keep it top of mind the next time you're looking to scratch that design itch. We're here to help you get started with some extra creative backyard decor ideas. After all, with warmer days right around the corner, now is the perfect time to ensure that your backyard is in tip-top shape for the spring and summer.
Whether you're looking to take on a simple DIY project (like painting a patio wall) or are more of a shopper and prefer to hit the stores in search of a trendy patio set or new outdoor furniture, we've rounded up excellent decor ideas for you. Note that it's easy to take your outdoor space to the next level without spending much, either. Many of the following ideas are budget-friendly and will last in your pretty patio or yard for seasons on end. We're also sharing ideas for those looking to incorporate more green friends into the yard, up their hosting game and much more. You may be surprised at how much of an impact something like a new set of planters or a bar tray can have on your outdoor setup.
No matter if you've got a large or small backyard, get ready to have a blast in the space this spring and summer. Just don't be surprised when your friends don't want to head home!
Bring on the Wicker
Wicker furniture and accents are perfect for the backyard, and the more of this material, the merrier, as seen in this space designed by Liz Williams Interiors. We love the addition of a wicker basket leaning above the outdoor fireplace as a festive finishing touch.
RELATED: 8 Best Patio Furniture Sets to Refresh Your Outdoor Space
Try Dark Patio Walls
Don't be afraid to go moody when picking a paint color for the patio walls, particularly if you plan to hang a TV out there. This dark gray shade, selected by Lindsie Davis at Blueberry Jones Design, looks sophisticated while helping to camouflage the black box.
Cover a Sofa With Fun Outdoor Fabric
Recover an outdoor sofa that needs a bit of a revamp using a fabric that inspires you. This peppy print that Ashley Macuga of Collected Interiors chose is welcoming and full of fun. Just be sure to select a performance fabric that can withstand the elements and not fade in the sun.
Hang a Pendant Light
Eye-catching light fixtures aren't solely for indoor areas. Make a statement on the patio with a woven chandelier like this one, which Shelby and Kasey van Daley of Daley Home skillfully incorporated into this space.
Keep Throw Blankets Handy
Make like Meredith Owen of Meredith Owen Interiors and set out some throw blankets so guests can cozy up and still enjoy spending time outdoors when the temps drop at night. As a bonus, stylish blankets will add color and texture to your patio, making them a no-brainer!
Opt for an Antiqued Look
For a storied look in the backyard, weave in some antiqued-looking plant pots in the yard for that perfect vintage touch. Anastasia Casey of The Interior Collective scattered together a group of vessels on the ground and incorporated some smaller pieces onto her tablescape.
Display a Succulent Centerpiece
Draw inspiration from Amy Peltier, the founder of Peltier Interiors, and display a centerpiece full of succulents on your outdoor table if you're going for a timeless, non-season specific look. Succulents are easy to maintain, but you can even go the faux plant route if you prefer!
Opt for Stylish Storage
Keep gardening supplies and decorative pieces on a small outdoor-friendly bookshelf that complements the colors of your patio, as illustrated by designer Emily LaMarque of Emily LaMarque Design Studio.
Bring Out the Bar Carts
Bar carts can also make excellent side tables, as seen here in this space by Suzette Donleavy, the founder of Well Designed Interiors. When you're hosting friends for cocktails, you can switch things out so that these pieces serve their intended function, but we have to admit they look great solely with vases and candles, too!
Mix and Match Pillow Patterns
Who says you have to stick to just one design when shopping for outdoor pillows? Create a playful arrangement like this setup from Susan Cohan of Susan Cohan Gardens. Just mix and match various patterns for a collected effect.
Set the Stage for Outdoor Entertaining
Bring a wood table to life with chic tableware and candlesticks. Meg Young of Cailíní Coastal uses taper candle holders of varying heights and arranges them in clusters of three, then layers in fresh floral arrangements.
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Mix and Match Dining Chairs
Seating doesn’t have to be one-note. Designer Mary Patton mixed and matched wrought iron chairs, with bright yellow chairs situated at each head of the table.
Lean Into "Less is More"
To freshen up this Santa Barbara, CA, patio, Taylor Anne Bliss of Taylor Anne Interiors chose to anchor it with a striped umbrella. "A whimsical umbrella surrounded by a neutral palette gives life to any small patio space," Bliss says.
Illuminate Your Space With Lanterns
For a cozy layout that sparks conversation, go for a round seating arrangement. Take note from Ryan and Kate Gross of Kate Anne Design and hang bamboo lanterns with dimmable bulbs to enhance the space.
Make Room (in Your Budget) for a Fireplace
Don’t let cool nights keep you inside. Gather around an outdoor fireplace or fire table with "all three sets of chairs facing inward," says Christine Vroom of Christine Vroom Interiors.
Arrange an Outdoor "Living Wall"
Freshen up your patio by mounting potted plants to a blank wall, as interior designer Tori Rubinson does here. Pick a wall you can see easily from an outdoor seating area, then fill the pots with low-maintenance cascading plants or herbs.
RELATED: Best Places to Buy Healthy Plants
Set Up Poolside Seating
Lean into the summer season by arranging dining furniture right at the water’s edge. To create the ultimate retreat, choose pieces made of natural materials, like a weather-treated, all-wood table with chairs, that blend well with the surrounding greenery.
Add Some Lawn Games
Invite loved ones to enjoy some friendly competition with a round of corn hole — but don’t skimp on decor. Pepper in items like lanterns and a chic woven chair that will come in handy for quick breaks when the games heat up.
RELATED: Fun Lawn Games for Some Serious Backyard Competition
Create an Intimate Vibe With Furniture
Arrange seating in a way that encourages conversation, plus layer in tables for snacks and stools for extra seating. "The scale of furnishings helps dictate a sense of place and closeness," says Tim Pfeiffer of Hoedemaker Pfeiffer.
Create an Outdoor Counter
You can build a simple outdoor bar on a budget from 4x4 wood pieces and a treated-lumber top. Inject pops of color, advises designer Maggie Griffin to "balance the expanse of wood tones and draw the eye from the interior of the home to the exterior living areas seamlessly."
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.
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