9 Essentials for the Perfect Backyard Oasis
Anyone else find themselves sitting in their backyard these last few weeks dreaming up alllll the things you want to do to make your space an outdoor oasis? Picture me: glass of rosé in one hand, phone with Pinterest app open in the other... and dreams that may be a little too big. Truth is though, you don't need a magazine status backyard to create a cozy and enjoyable space. These essentials are sure to get you there.
Home: Camille Styles | Photography: Kristen Kilpatrick
Fireplace
In my opinion, every outdoor oasis needs some sort of fireplace or fire pit to gather 'round. Where else are you going to make s'mores? We bought a cheapo one at our local home improvement store and it does the trick!
Interior Design: Pencil & Paper Co. | Photography: Leslee Mitchell
Seating
An outdoor oasis is your space to relax, so thoughtful seating is a must. If you're tight on space and you're trying to decide between a table or a lounge space, remember that you can easily achieve both with small bunched tables and chairs or one large coffee table to use for serving and casual eating.
Interior Design: Pencil & Paper Co. | Photography: Leslee Mitchell
Greenery
Give your al fresco arena some life with pretty potted greens. Tuck them in between seating to fill gaps, create a wall of herbs or top your tables with them!
Home: Abby Capalbo | Photography: Erin McGinn
Outdoor Shower
No pool? No problem. Install an outdoor shower anyway to cool off during those super hot summer days. Plus, outdoor showers are just adorable. Not to mention, perfect for rinsing off if you come back from the beach or need to rinse off fur babies (and real ones too).
Home: Abby Capalbo | Photography: Erin McGinn
Serving Station
When we host a party in our backyard/pool house, I always set up a self serve station for drinks and food. It allows you to enjoy the party and mingle without having to play bartender!
Get Your Game On
Liven up your lawn with giant games! How fun is this life size connect four? You can do this with scrabble, tic-tac-toe, jenga and more.
Home: Abby Capalbo | Photography: Erin McGinn
The Perfect Playlist
A beautiful backyard doesn't just come to live with tangible pieces—a playlist can help set the mood. I like to have a few varying ones for different events... a casual family day by the pool, a dinner party with friends or an at-home al fresco date night.
Source: Ella Claire
Lighting
It's amazing what a bit of lighting can do. String up some market lights to warm up your space—big or small.
Blooms
Forget the decor... who wouldn't love a wall of beautiful blooms in their backyard? Not to mention, overlooking a pool. Yes, I'm still dreaming. SaveSave SaveSave SaveSave SaveSave
