Budget
July 20, 2021
How To Makeover Your Backyard On A Budget
Now more than ever, our outdoor spaces are working overtime, so it makes sense to give them a little more love — but that doesn’t mean blowing the budget! Scroll down for budget-friendly backyard ideas (and the exact products you need to achieve each look).
Add Pea Gravel
Natural stone pavers are pricey, but you can still get a French parterre garden-inspired look underfoot with natural materials. Pea gravel is a thriftier option than large stone slabs and conveys a romantic vibe, as seen in this country escape in Bridgehampton, New York.
Fill your garden with pea gravel to give a luxe look without breaking the bank.
Plant Inexpensive Annuals
Instead of investing in large shrubs or trees, add instant color and texture to the garden with an arrangement of budget-friendly potted annuals like begonias, impatiens and potato vine in a plant stand.
Impatiens add no-fuss color to your garden all summer long.
Open An Umbrella
Pump up a patio set with a punchy umbrella. These fun tiki versions were sourced in a drugstore, which proves just how economical this purchase can be — plus, they pack major impact. Whether bright and bold or beachy and boho, umbrellas are a functional way to change the mood of your backyard.
This Hula umbrella mimics an island paradise vacation without having to leave the house!
Mix Your Patterned Pillows
There’s no easier way to pump up an outdoor seating area than with new throw pillows. This grouping mixes tie dye, summery stripes and checks for an eclectic approach.
This punchy throw pillow by OUI is reminiscent of a getaway to the Italian coast with motifs of citrus branches.
Switch Up Containers
Try out some new planters for a fresh vibe. In her Vancouver garden, designer Rosie Daykin uses oversized baskets as well as traditional terracotta and earthenware. For a luxe look, choose plants with trailing varieties for contrast and texture.
These ceramic planters have a soft, sun-washed finish and curvy silhouette. Mix and match a selection of shapes and sizes for a more dynamic display.
Opt For An Outdoor Rug
Placing a rug outside is an easy way to add a more lived-in feel and define an outdoor zone. There are so many options in a range of materials that stand up to the elements! This neutral sisal version is a good match for woven furniture.
This flatwoven rug is an easy way to bring texture and dimension to your outdoor dining area.
DIY Pillow Covers
If you love the look of boho indigo pillows, try out this technique for a fresh spin. Traditional Japanese tie-dyeing, called Shibori, was the inspiration for these watery pillow covers.
If DIY isn’t your thing, this summery throw pillow by Distinctly Home achieves a similar look.
Build A Screen
Less costly than a fence, a screen helps delineate a backyard to create zones and can be used to increase privacy in the city. Another bonus of screens? They allow sunlight to pass through so plants still thrive.
This modern privacy screen is stylish and affordable.
DIY A Garden Stool
A garden stool is an outdoor all-star, serving as as extra seating, or a spot to lay your cocktail or prop up your feet. This colorful DIY version can be mixed up in your yard and custom painted with your fave palette.
If you don’t have the time (or patience) to DIY your own, this textured patio stool is a great alternative!
Just Add Water
The sound of water muffles traffic and is so tranquil, but that doesn’t mean you have to splurge on a big-ticket item: a tabletop version fits the bill in this compact, urban yard.
This small fountain has a stoneware look to blend in with hardscaping and stands at just 11″ tall for convenient tabletop display.
Hang Some Drapes
Dress up a pergola or other garden structure with some softly billowing drapery to give outdoor rooms a beach cabana vibe.
These ivory outdoor drapes provide a touch of privacy and can stand up to rain.
Paint It Out
A fresh coat of paint makes hard structures look brand new, but think beyond white picket fences: Try a dramatic, sophisticated neutral like charcoal, dark taupe or navy blue.
Make plants pop and add contrast and depth with hues like Benjamin Moore’s Fairview Taupe (HC-85) or Dragon’s Breath (1547).