23 backyard ideas and landscaping inspiration for a stunning outdoor space –in all seasons

These backyard ideas will help you achieve the outdoor space you've always wanted – beautiful, versatile, and easy maintenance. Whether your focus is mainly gorgeous flowers and trees, or if you want a more minimalist backyard that caters to your entertaining needs, putting in the time and effort to properly plan your outdoor space always pays off.

From easy planting updates to backyard landscaping ideas, there are so many great ways to take outdoor areas of all shapes and sizes, to the next level.  

With fire pits, vegetable gardens, and DIY additions, like a stock tank pool, all within the realm of possibilities, one thing's for sure: The grass is greener right where you are. 

When it comes to designing your outdoor space, whether you need large or small backyard, there are a few top considerations that should always be a priority. Joe Raboine, outdoor living expert and Director of Residential Hardscapes at Belgard, recommends the following: 

Start small, focusing on 'lighting, speakers, and water features (which can add an element of beauty and also mask outside noises such as traffic). They often don’t cost that much to install but can make a significant difference in making your space feel complete'.

Lighting and technology can elevate the space and allow you to use it during any season or time of day.

Create continuity between the inside and the outside: 'hardscape pavers and mixed materials are great ways 'to create hybrid spaces'.

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By Anna Cottrell, Kelsey Mulvey 

Real Homes is the homes website for the rest of us. The dwellers who are typically left out of the home equation can find a place here. Everyone deserves to love where they live, and we help make this possible. Small space occupants, renters, home sharers, first-time buyers, and anyone with flexible and mobile lifestyles are all welcome here. 

Our goal is to make ordinary homes extraordinary with a focus on cost and value. We cover realistic, achievable ways to make your home special (think DIYs, renovations, upcycling, and editor-curated picks of affordable finds), and guide you on the best ways to save money when it comes to your space. You'll also find the best product picks, hot takes on trends, and helpful cleaning hacks. Whether you are renting with friends, living at home, or dwelling solo in a studio apartment, we have your back.

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