Backyard Bliss: Have a Master Plan
Becky Harris
April 14, 2010
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
A lot of people who ask me for advice on their yards have no idea where to begin. All you really need to think about it what you want out of your yard. Do you need room to play catch? An area for a dog to roam? Do you want to spend a lot of time out there when it gets colder? Want a swingset? A sandbox? Vegetable garden? Are you lucky enough to be building a pool or hot tub?
Consider the entire program you'd like for the backyard and designate areas for everything you want to include - save a sunny area for the vegetable garden; perhaps fence an area for the dog away from the area you want to tread through with bare feet, plot out where you may want a fire pit. Have a master plan and add things over time as you come up with the time and money.
My backyard is a tiny, mosquito-infested patio that drops off into an unusable ravine, so the following pictures are just of some backyards I covet. Enjoy!
Consider the entire program you'd like for the backyard and designate areas for everything you want to include - save a sunny area for the vegetable garden; perhaps fence an area for the dog away from the area you want to tread through with bare feet, plot out where you may want a fire pit. Have a master plan and add things over time as you come up with the time and money.
My backyard is a tiny, mosquito-infested patio that drops off into an unusable ravine, so the following pictures are just of some backyards I covet. Enjoy!
This is a postage stamp-sized yard that has been very well-planned. Check out how the gardens are cleverly planted on a raised terrace.
How great is this pond and bridge? It's like having a mini-botanical garden out back!
Obviously, the koi were a priority for these homeowners and they designed their yard accordingly!
Sometimes all we need to make us happy is a bit of green and a place to sit and eat all our own, especially in the city.
I'm just really, really jealous of this garden. It's just too dang hot here in Georgia to put in all of the gardening hours it takes to maintain something like this!
Lovely and formal - this yard is also about providing lovely views from inside the house.
Clearly these people enjoy socializing in the yard. It's like an outdoor formal living room.
This one has that wonderful waterfall sound, and a conversation fire pit - perfect for making s'mores.
Related Stories
Kitchen Makeovers
Kitchen of the Week: Beer, Shuffleboard and Pizza Bring the Fun
Entertaining features and a warm industrial style create a lively atmosphere in this revamped Craftsman bungalow space
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Working With Pros
Which Pro Should You Hire for Your Project?
Find out whether you need a contractor, an architect, an interior designer or another professional for the job
Full Story
Bathroom Makeovers
Bathroom of the Week: Accessibility and a Relaxing Vibe
By Becky Harris
A design-build firm uses universal design principles when expanding a family bath
Full Story
Housekeeping
How to Clean Your Windows and Keep Them Streak-Free
Try these tips, tricks and tools to wash your windows so they’re crystal clear
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Kitchen Design
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Porches
Porch of the Week: Catching a Breeze in Austin, Texas
By Becky Harris
The new screened-in space has a beautiful fireplace as a focal point and includes lounging and dining spaces
Full Story
Landscape Design
Before and After: 4 Landscapes That Bring Resort Style Home
Stunning fire pits, luxurious pools, elegant entertaining zones and other relaxing spots give these yards vacation vibes
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Home Offices So Far in 2024
By Julie Sheer
Get inspired by these stylish workspaces where designers pair comfort with practicality
Full Story
check out the DIY mosquito system kits here:
http://www.mosquitoandcoolingsystems.com