20 No-Grass Backyard Ideas That Are Still Lush

While many people picture a backyard and imagine a large, green space, maybe with a swing set and a small patio, not all backyards fall within this category. If you're faced with a no-grass backyard of your own and are struggling with how to make the most of your outdoor space, you'll want to keep reading.

Below, we're sharing 20 of our favorite no-grass backyards that are sure to provide you with inspiration, whether you're designing a poolside lounge area or living somewhere in the countryside.

Embrace an Indoor/Outdoor Fusion

Imagine stepping outdoors and right into the pool (well, almost). This backyard allows for exactly that, and its large, open doorway allows for seamless indoor-outdoor living. We bet this is the place to be during the warm weather months.

Combine Concrete and Gravel

This backyard combines the best of several worlds—a gravel area adds textural flair and elegance, while a patio easily accommodates seating of all kinds. If your backyard allows, carving out a bar area can add an extra festive, hotel-like touch. The grass running through the concrete looks ultra luxe, too.

Install a Grill Area for Entertaining Galore

This no-grass backyard is made for entertaining thanks to its large grill area, which is just begging for the party to get started. So what are you waiting for? Invite everyone over for burgers and hot dogs followed by a jump in the lake, and you're guaranteed to be the most popular family in the neighborhood all summer long—we promise.

Grab a Seat by the Fire

Come night time, everyone will want to cozy up by the fire pit in this spacious no-grass backyard. When the sun is shining, the seating area is perfect for reading and even working.

Make Room for a Covered Dining Area

This pool area backs right up onto a lake, making for a super serene view. A covered area allows for outdoor dining without the presence of too much sun during the hot parts of the day.

Set Out Plenty of Chairs for Lounging

Pull up a chair! This backyard allows for plenty of space to kick back by the pool. Lounge chairs are excellent for sunning and reading, while a bench and coffee table are ideal during mealtimes.

Brighten Your Space With Lots of Lights

This tiered backyard offers poolside lounging as well as an upper area for socializing. Be sure to brighten things up with a few lanterns or some string lights so that you can enjoy your outdoor space after the sun goes down.

Get Comfy by the Water

Make the most of life at the lake by purchasing comfy outdoor furniture and cushions. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful view.

Grab Some Umbrellas for Maximum Comfort

Don't forget the umbrellas! Bring a beach resort feel to your own home by outfitting your backyard with all the essentials—stylish lounge chairs, outdoor pillows, and yes, something to protect you from the sun's rays.

Embrace a Darling Country Look

Not all no-grass backyards are by the pool or lake, though. This one has a quaint, countryside feel, thanks to the gravel and stone pathway and classic wrought iron furniture. We can imagine sitting out here for a cute afternoon tea party.

Create the Perfect Patio With These Essential Pieces

If your backyard is solely a patio area, you can still make the most of it with the right combination of furnishings. A dining table, bench, side table, and fire pit are all you truly need.

Say Yes to Yellow

Funky curved furniture isn't just for inside the house. Add a little personality to your backyard by opting for a curved sofa, for example. Then, don't forget to add pops of color in the form of pillows and throw blankets. Why not think outside the box a bit with a bold yellow?

Make It Minimal Yet Practical

Fun egg chairs shine in this minimalist yet welcoming no-grass backyard. The yard features different zones for eating and relaxing and feels quite spacious due to its thoughtful layout.

Don't Forget to Design With Plants

Plants are the ultimate backyard accessory. If your no-grass backyard is feeling a bit sparse, it's easy to jazz up your surroundings with a few green friends—or a ton. Use plant pots as centerpieces or scatter some succulents around your space.

Design a Private Oasis

You can also use plants and tall trees to make your backyard feel more lush and secluded. It's easy to carve out your own little private slice of paradise.

Set Up the Ultimate Outdoor Lounge Space

Jump in the pool, then hop out and warm up by the fire pit...ahh, bliss! There's no better way to spend a summer night at home, if you ask us.

Arrange Some Poufs

A curved sofa fits perfectly in this outdoor space and can accommodate the whole crew. Poufs serve as an additional form of seating, but you can also turn them into side tables as needed—simply place a tray on top. They're lightweight and easy to move around the yard as you need, too.

Install a Safety Gate Around the Pool

If you have young ones running around, you'll want to keep your pool area gated off for safety purposes. This allows the rest of your no-grass backyard to serve as a family-friendly area for lounging.

Try This Acrylic Version for Maximum Style

Not crazy about the look of metal? An acrylic barrier like this one is a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to a standard pool gate. It's barely there visually yet ultra functional at the same time.

Get Ready for Fun

If you have older children and do not need a gate around the pool, a setup like this one is tons of fun. If your backyard has a small patch of grass—or even sand—install a play area complete with a slide and swings.

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