15 Envy-Inducing DIY Backyard Ideas

diy backyard ideas

Did you just finish creating the most amazing man cave? Are you looking for a new project to get your hands dirty with and improve the design of your home?

It might be time to start making changes in the backyard. Most people put off working on this part of the home because they think it requires thousands of dollars to upgrade. Sure, that’s the case if you want to pay others to do it for you and transform your backyard all at once.

But, there are plenty of DIY backyard ideas you can start implementing right away. All it takes is a little bit of money and some free time to make your backyard everything you want it to be.

If you’re not sure exactly what you want, here are a few suggestions to consider.

1. Design a Walking Path

Walking paths are really just a few stones or sets of bricks laid in the ground, but they have a way of making the entire yard look much more elegant. Use them to guide people from the pool to the sitting area or to walk right up to the back door.

Wherever you put the path, make sure the stepping stones aren’t too high off the ground and that they’re sturdy. As much as you want the aesthetic appeal, it needs to function properly.

2. Upgrade the Grilling Area

Another area that needs more focus on function rather than aesthetics is the grill. It makes no sense to invest in some fancy gas grill if you don’t know how to use it. Not to mention, you can get way more flavor out of a smoker/charcoal grill if you know what you’re doing.

Do some research to find the right one for you, then design the outdoor cooking area around the grill you buy.

3. Create the Coolest Outdoor Shower

An outdoor shower is one of the backyard DIY ideas you’re going to have the most fun with. It’s simple to make and you’ll never get tired of using it once it’s all set.

All you need is a sturdy tree with a low-hanging branch, a hose, and a ladder. Set the ladder against the trunk and wind the hose around the branch a few times to keep it sturdy. Attach a shower head to it and hang some towels on the ladder, and you’re done!

Bonus points if you get a rustic wooden ladder for extra visual appeal. You can shower after the pool or the beach in your trunks or create a private shower if you want to go all-out.

4. Repurpose Tree Stumps

If you’d rather cut one of the trees in your backyard than use it for a shower, keep in mind you have to figure out what to do with the stump. Paying someone to remove it can cost a lot of money.

It may be more worthwhile to do something with the stump instead. You know, like turning it into the base for an outdoor table or using it as a stand for plant pots.

Repurposing a tree stump depends on how big the stump is and where it’s placed in the yard. But, plenty of ideas for backyard transformations on a budget are possible if you put your mind to it.

5. Put a Beer Cooler in the Outdoor Table

The next cool idea you can try out is installing a cooler in the middle of your outdoor table. You know those tables that expand when you have more guests to seat or the ones with winding centers to make passing plates easier?

They cost a lot of money at the store, but you can make such transformations and more yourself. To create a beer cooler, install a compartment on the bottom side of the table top, then open the center of the table somewhere to be a lid.

6. Build an Outdoor Bar

Want to have something a little stronger than beer on-hand? Create an outdoor bar!

You can build a hanging one that opens up or a standing one to set up by the grill. Either way, make sure it’s fully stocked and ready to go.

7. Turn Old Pallets into Comfortable Seating

The more DIY backyard ideas you take on, the more pallets you’re going to be using to bring everything in. Or, you may work at a warehouse that’s looking to get rid of them.

Collect these items and turn them into the base for outdoor benches. Attach some cushions on top and make sure everything is sturdy – that’s it!

8. Make Your Own Firepit

Don’t have a place to put your new seating area? Why not set it up around a firepit you made yourself?

These are easier to build than you might think. You can dig a firepit into the ground or build it up with stones and other non-flammable material.

9. Light Some Lanterns

As nice as it is to have a fire to sit around, the backyard needs some more lighting to be fully functional. Hang a few homemade lanterns around the outer edge of the house or in a few of the trees.

These make the space feel cozy and welcoming, and they are super easy to make.

10. Get Rid of Bugs for Good

Don’t forget about bugs when making lanterns. Use a few of your homemade lights to repel bugs by looking up DIY repellant. You want this to be safe for everyone to breathe as it burns, yet effective enough to make bugs go away for good.

11. Hang a Bunch of Hammocks

As much as lights set the mood and create a cozy environment, nothing says “sit back and relax” like a hammock does! You can make a unique hammock on your own or buy one at the store for cheap.

The trick is to find the right place to put it and be a little creative about the stand. After all, it’s much cheaper to wind a hammock around a trunk than to buy all the setup material for it.

12. Create Multi-Person Swings

Swings aren’t just for little kids. They make a great hang out area for when you’re hosting parties or just want to relax on your own with a book after a long day.

Not to mention, all you need to make them is a bit of wood and some rope. Don’t go for a solo swing, either. Make it big enough for a few people to use if you really want to have some fun with it.

13. Install Exterior Mirrors

This suggestion may sound a little odd at first, but it looks awesome once it’s installed. Mirrors have a way of opening up a space.

It doesn’t matter if you’re inside or outside, a few mirrors on the wall add so much elegance to a home. Hang a few by the outdoor grill or install them by the seating area to see just how effective they are.

14. Paint Your Pots

Most men think planting is for ladies, but actually, they’re great to have around the home. This is especially true if you like to cook and want fresh herbs on hand, or if you’re looking for a new way to relax.

Or, maybe your wife is into plants and you want to include her in the backyard transformation. Paint the pots for a special touch and watch how the whole yard lights up.

15. Set up Stuff for the Kids

Speaking of setting up plants for your lady, try to do something for the kids, too. A little bit of chalkboard paint can add so much fun to their play area, and a slip ‘n slide will keep them entertained for days.

You can also learn how to set up DIY outdoor tents with hula hoops and blankets or maybe even project a movie on the back wall for everyone to watch. There’s no limit to what a bit of childlike imagination can do for the kids.

DIY Backyard Ideas for Date Night, Bro Days, and Family Parties

In addition to all of the long-term backyard transformations mentioned above, there are some cool DIY backyard ideas you can use for special occasions. Hang classic Christmas lights in the middle of summer to set the mood with your woman or turn up the tunes with nice speakers when the boys come over.

Don’t forget about party-hosting hacks for family barbecues and holiday get-togethers. For more on hosting and having fun without breaking the bank, click here to learn about awesome indoor DIY ideas for the ultimate man cave.

Author: IzzyWeb