With temperatures starting to increase, the layers coming off, and more daylight hours it truly starting to feel like summer. However, this summer is looking a little different with many choosing to say no to the Europe trip, summer camps, and local pools.
Although COVID restrictions are being lifted, people are inevitably going to be spending more time at home. On that note, sprucing up your outdoor area to make it a great summer space could help make up for that missed beach holiday.
1. Outdoor furniture
A good place to start is outdoor furniture. Find spaces that could make a cozy spot for a couch or a great spot for a dining table to entertain. Outdoor furniture is an essential framework of any good outdoor space. You don’t have to spend a fortune on it either; old pallets and wood can be turned into DIY vintage chairs and couches, you can stitch up your outdoor beanbag or even build a wooden bar area.
2. Add a pool
What better way to cool down than a pool? Perfect for the littles ones or yourself after a long, hot day. The options are endless, a little paddle pool can set you back on $30 or invest in a more permanent above ground pool. With a bit of love above ground, pools can look modern, a wooden fence and plants around the outside will do the trick. The above-ground option is far cheaper and quicker than installing an in-ground pool, but an in-ground pool is a great summer option if you’re ready to invest.
3. Buy some plants
Spruce up your outdoor area with potted plants, hanging plants, or a plant wall. Find out which plants flourish in your climate and get your green fingers on. Plants are relatively cheap and will last a lifetime if you look after them properly. They’re a great way to start adding character to your outdoor spaces.
4. Outdoor lighting
With the nights getting warmer, the options start opening up for outdoor entertaining and enjoyment. Make this a possibility with some outdoor lighting. There is now a range of durable outdoor fairy lights and lanterns which can add that special touch of magic. Light up pathways with solar-powered lanterns or hang them from trees. With this extra bit of light, you can now make the most of your outdoor area, even after dark.
5. Build a treehouse
It’s every child’s dream to have a hideaway play space up in the trees. Why not take the extra time on your hands and build a special spot for the little ones. It’s a great family bonding activity and you’ll have a spot that will last forever. Don’t limit it to the little ones either, an adult-sized treehouse may take a bit more planning and will power, but a reading room tucked away in the trees would be a sure spectacle.
6. Put up a shed
Get creative with an outdoor shed, turn it into a playroom, reading room, or more storage. It’s easy to make a cozy modern space and add an extra mini room to your house. It’s also handy when the rain pours and you can enjoy the spot while still feeling a part of the outdoors.
7. Install a firepit
A fire pit is a great way to take the entertaining outside and can be easily done by hand. There’s plenty of DIY tutorials online, or splash out and buy a premade one. It’ll make night time entertaining hassle-free and you’ll be able to enjoy it as the days get colder too.
8. Make an outdoor movie area
An old school projector and white sheet can provide the whole family with entertainment for hours. You should be able to pick one up relatively cheaply, and an old white sheet won’t be hard to find. If you want to get serious about an outdoor movie space then you could dig a pit and fill with cozy pillows and bean bags, a few fairy lights wouldn’t go amiss either.
9. Plant a vegetable garden
There’s something wholesome about picking food from your own garden. It’s also a great way to get everyone outside and make the most of your outdoor space. Go for a planter box, fruit tree, herb garden, or in-ground vegetable garden. Take a look at what fruit and vegetables are in-season and which will thrive in the climate you’re living in. Everyone will love seeing the progress the veggies are making and they do taste better hand-picked!
10. Add a hammock
Hammocks are a perfect way to utilize a tucked-away corner or empty space. You’ll get endless hours of reading and relaxation time in a hammock. Hang it on the deck, in between trees or in the courtyard. If you have guests over and run out of space, it’s an easy fix to pack it away.
11. Install a daybed
Following on with the relaxation theme, why not create a daybed space in your yard? The perfect spot for an afternoon nap in the sun or cozy space to dig into a book. You could even go all out and create a hanging daybed – a couch and hammock hybrid.
12. Set up a pergola
A pergola is an awesome way to add some shelter to your outdoor space for those hot summer days. It also doubles as a great spot to entertain guests in the evenings. Add some fairy lights or grow some vines plants and you’ll have the pergola dreams are made of.
13. Create walls and spaces
The key to any good outdoor area is a range of spaces that can be used in different instances. If your yard is currently one big joint space look at ways you could add walls, plants, sheds, treehouses, or furniture to divide the areas up. Think about your priorities for your outdoor living, is it relaxation, play, or entertaining? This should help you work out which space to prioritize.
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