The snow has melted (finally!), winter layers have come off, and before summer gets into full swing, it’s time for you to whip your exterior space into shape. No worries if you don’t have a landscape architect on speed dial: With the right accents and accessories, a little design boost can go a long way for your outdoor decor. Ahead, get inspired to elevate your outside space with seven easy, stylish DIY backyard ideas.
One of my favorite outdoor decorating ideas on a budget: Use sparkling string lights, glowing outdoor lanterns, and insect-repelling citronella candles to create an ambiance that’s festive, fun, and functional. Nothing says “party” like a little mood lighting!
Outdoor throw pillows are your backyard’s best friend: They’ve got all the color and pattern with none of the long-term commitment (plus, they’re an easy, affordable addition for folks looking to spruce up outdoor living spaces on a budget). Mix and match ‘em, pile ‘em on, swap ‘em around; it can be shockingly easy to get cushion crazy, so go ahead–we won’t judge.
Indoor/outdoor rugs have come a long way. Gone are the days of sticky plastic and scratchy fibers–this new breed is soft on your soles and lovely enough for your living room, but durable enough to tough out the elements. Is there anything polypropylene can’t do?
A well-curated collection of outdoor planters transforms your patio from ordinary to an oasis in no time. Whether your taste takes you sleek and sophisticated, textured and sculptural, or bright and bold, beautifully potted plants are the ticket to creating your very own insta-Garden of Eden!
Why should interior walls get to have all the fun? Outdoor art is just another opportunity to show off your style. Oversized clocks, metal wall medallions, hanging textiles, and even moss letters add that extra touch of personality and punch–plus, they won’t take up any ground space, making this a smart backyard idea for small yards.
A glazed garden stool or earthy woven ottoman will refresh your furniture scheme without a total re-haul. Petite but powerful, these accent pieces are a worthwhile splurge, upping your chic factor while adding surface and seating.
Finally, whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two, a casual family get-together or an all-out soirée, today’s outdoor serveware selection is nothing short of magic. Colorful acrylic tumblers? Check. Printed melamine platters? Check. Woven placemats, bamboo utensils, shatter-proof goblets: check, check, check! With an endless supply of options out there, what’s a girl to do? The answer: entertain, of course.
So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get out there and spring into action–because even though they say it’s what’s inside that counts, this season we’re all about what’s out!
Which of these DIY backyard ideas are you trying? Tell us in the comments!
Andi Federman is a New York-based interior designer.
You RSVP’d yes, marked your calendar, and then spotted those three little words on the…
Every week, we're sharing the Lulus new arrivals our stylist Ayla Ochoa is loving most.…
A casual fall wedding comes with one of the trickiest dress codes: looking celebratory without…
For 30 years, Lulus has helped women dress for life's most meaningful moments, from first…
Welcome to the first edition of Friday Stylist Favorites, a new weekly series where we…
Fall weddings have a magic all their own. Colorful foliage, crisp air, candlelit receptions, and…