When brainstorming DIY backyard ideas, most people instinctively picture homemade firepits, reclaimed wood projects, and the ever-popular string lights that have become synonymous with modern backyard aesthetics. These elements dominate Pinterest boards and blog posts, making them the undisputed pillars of DIY backyard design.
But we wanted to offer something more versatile—ideas that work not just for suburban single-family homes but also for city condos or apartments. If you have an outdoor space you consider a “backyard,” big or small, this list will have something for you.
To make it easier to navigate, we’ve divided our DIY ideas into two categories:
- Ambitious Projects – more intricate, hands-on designs for those who love a challenge.
- Quick Accents – simple touches that enhance your space without requiring a big time commitment.
Intricate and Intense DIY Backyard Ideas
These are bigger, more involved projects that will take you a little more time to complete. If you have a free weekend with some good weather upcoming, you can complete each one in two days.
Add a New Walking Path
Walking paths are both visually and functionally appealing. They allow you to guide guests to certain locations, and they provide great visual cues that can act as the center or support of a backyard design. You can generally create a path in three steps: outlining, filling, and adding the steps.
Outlining is the simple act of deciding where the path will go. This may seem obvious, but make sure you know exactly how wide and how long to make it. If you have grass covering the future path, you will likely want to remove it, so ensure there are no sprinkler lines or shallow roots hiding underneath the ground.
The filling is where you remove the current ground cover and put in whatever new cover you want to use. We recommend starting with topsoil and then adding mulch to make the path obvious to visitors while also minimizing the threat of weeds.
Finally, the steps are the most fun part because you have a wide variety of options. On the expensive side, flat stones can cost upwards of $40 per step, but you can also be creative and repurpose existing stones in your yard, or buy inexpensive pavers that will maintain your backyard motif.
Bury Your Downspouts
Another heavily involved project is one that lacks the vanity of a path, but has every bit of functionality. If you have gutters on your house, you also have downspouts that likely release the water away from the house. These can be unsightly and trip hazards if they are poorly installed. If your yard has any sort of downward angle to it (or even if it doesn’t) you can bury your downspouts and install an exit system down to another location at the edge of your property.
At its most basic, this can be time-consuming because you have to dig up literally every inch of ground you want to use for the exit path. However, you can also rent various tools from your local hardware store to expedite the process. Make sure to purchase the proper drainage system so they do not deteriorate, puncture, or freeze in the winter.
Round the Edges of Your Lawn
Like most people, we originally believed we needed grass to extend to every corner of our DIY backyard. But then we realized it’s not only unnecessary, but rounding edges can add a new design aesthetic. By rounding edges, you can add mulch, rocks, or any other material you like. This turns a previously square yard into a fun, creative space.
Similar to the walking path, you will need to draw some clear boundaries and plan this out ahead of time. Then, be sure to maintain the rounded style – do not settle for square lines!
Simple Accents for Your DIY Backyard
These quick and easy ideas are perfect for adding the finishing touches to your outdoor space.
Solar-Powered Outdoor Lighting
Solar-powered lights are a versatile way to illuminate any outdoor area. Use them to line the pathways you’ve created or to add subtle lighting on stairs, patios, or walk-out basements. Not only are they energy-efficient, but they also enhance safety and ambiance, especially at night.
Wooden Spool Tables
If you’re looking for a durable and unique outdoor table, wooden spools are an excellent choice. While they can be tricky to find in stores, you might score a great deal at flea markets or from construction sites. Simply turn the spool on its side for a sturdy high-top bar table that’s wind-resistant and built to last. It’s a practical and budget-friendly option with rustic charm.
Rubber Mulch for Playgrounds and Swingsets
While traditional woodchips have their appeal, rubber mulch is a game-changer for families with young kids. It’s long-lasting, provides better cushioning for falls, and requires less maintenance than its wooden counterpart.
The downside? Rubber mulch tends to stick to shoes, clothes, and skin, meaning kids might track it inside. Still, its durability and safety benefits make it an excellent choice for play areas.
Lavender and Citronella Plants
Add some greenery with a purpose! Lavender not only looks beautiful and smells amazing but also adds a calming touch to your backyard. Citronella, on the other hand, serves as a natural mosquito repellent. You’ve probably seen citronella candles before—these plants are the real deal!
While citronella isn’t the most visually striking plant, it thrives in pots and planters and is incredibly effective at keeping bugs at bay. Pair it with lavender for a practical and fragrant addition to your outdoor space.
[…] 7 DIY Backyard Ideas for the Summer […]