It’s possible to upgrade your backyard on your own and on a budget. If you’re looking for a way to transform or enhance your outdoor living space, DIY projects are the way to go. Here are some ideas for DIY backyard projects you can do to upgrade the space.
Fire pits are far simpler to DIY than you might think. With some basic tools, angled paving stones and some gravel you can make a simple fire pit for bonfires all year round. Round fire pits are the simplest to construct but you can also build a rectangular option for a contemporary twist. However, make sure your homeowners’ association or local codes allow them before you build.
Vertical gardens are all the rage and for good reason. They’re simple to construct out of inexpensive materials and a great way to enjoy your garden while saving outdoor space. One excellent way to make a DIY vertical garden is by using wooden pallets and hanging window boxes or small planters from the slats. You can fasten the palette to a wall, fence or create a base for a free-standing double sided garden.
Stepping stones are an alternative to garden paths and are relatively easy to set up. You can purchase stone pavers or actual stone depending on your preference and set them with common tools. Take your creativity even further by making stepping stones yourself with pebbles or mosaic pieces. These stones not only look great but add important functionality and structure to any yard, no matter the size.
If you want to liven up your outdoor seating, try DIY cushions. With some fabric and cut foam pieces you can make your own cushions for chairs, benches or even the ground. Choose sturdy outdoor fabrics that can withstand the elements but add color, pattern and aesthetic appeal to your backyard patio. By creating your own cushions, you can customize their size and shape so they fit your furniture and needs perfectly. Try pairing the cushions with a coordinating outdoor rug for a powerful makeover in minutes.
If your backyard is especially sunny, creating shade is a great way to help you enjoy it even on the hottest of days. Try setting up a DIY sail shade made of raw canvas. You can attach it to existing structures like the outside wall of the house or garden fence or construct your own support posts. Curtains are another excellent way to create shade and add privacy to your backyard, especially when hung from a pergola. Try light-colored fabrics to keep the area cool while still letting in the sunshine.
These are just a few ideas for simple DIY projects to transform your backyard. Try using these ideas as starting points and with a little work and creativity you’ll have a backyard that feels brand new.
Susan Shuxian Hu has been a dedicated realtor serving in Silicon Valley since 2010. With great passion, outstanding negotiation skills and due diligence, she has helped many buyers and sellers in their real estate needs. Living in West San Jose for more than 14 years, she has broad knowledge in Cupertino, West San Jose, Los Altos and Saratoga. She has enormous patience working with buyers and never tired of showing all possible properties that may fit client’s needs. Clients appreciate her best service to their satisfaction. She specialized in luxurious real estate purchase in Los Altos, Cupertino, Saratoga and Palo Alto. She also helped friend and past client’s referral working in San Francisco, Foster City and far reached Bay Area.
Susan Shuxian Hu was graduated in East China Normal University in Shanghai with bachelor and master degrees in Bio science. She came to US in 1989 and earned her Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics in Texas A&M University in 1996. After one year of postdoc in Southern Florida University in Tampa, she moved back to Orlando with her family and started working in Lucent Technologies. In 2002, Susan moved to California, Silicon Valley joined a start-up company. Since then she worked in high tech Corporation till 2009. Driven by her dream job pursuing, she found her passion working in sales by helping people in real estate after one year of education in De Anza business and real estate law study. Since then, she has been serving many people in Bay Area for their real estate needs.
With bilingual advantage, she has been actively working with Chinese immigrants as well as local engineers and residents. With rich high tech background and connection with Chinese community, Susan has served in luxurious real estate in last a couple of years.