Your backyard is your private oasis – an outdoor space to unwind, host gatherings, and make lasting memories. With the endless possibilities for yard transformations these days, it can be tricky to decide what improvements to tackle first.
That’s why I’ve put together this extensive guide covering 23 of the top-rated backyard upgrades to help you elevate your outdoor living space. From playful zones for kids to serene retreats for adults, there are backyard additions here to suit every lifestyle and budget.
I thoroughly researched the latest landscaping trends and outdoor living features to include only the most popular, practical backyard improvement concepts in this list.
Use this guidebook to ignite ideas and gain clarity on which backyard improvements will help you tailor your yard to perfectly match your lifestyle.
Above Ground Pools
An above ground pool allows you to make a splash right in your backyard. Compared to in-ground pools, above ground pools are more affordable, easier to install, and offer versatility in shape and size. When considering an above ground pool, you’ll first want to check local regulations regarding fencing and zoning requirements.
Most areas require 4-6 foot tall fencing with self-closing and self-latching gates surrounding the pool. You’ll also need to factor in the space needed for decking or patios around the pool perimeter.
There are many above ground pool options to choose from:
- Oval pools are space-efficient and have a natural look. Oval sizes range from 8-28 feet across.
- Round pools are classic simple shapes for freeform swimming. Round sizes range from 12-24 feet diameter.
- Rectangle pools maximize swimming areas and are easier to fence in. Rectangular sizes range from 12×24 feet to 18×40 feet.
- Hybrid curve pools blend rounded and rectangular shapes for aesthetic appeal.
- Inflatable pop-up pools provide a temporary solution and easy setup.
Above ground pool kits include the vinyl liner, pump system, filters, and ladder. Liners come in decorative patterns and colors to match your backyard style. Opt for 20-25 mil thick premium vinyl liners for durability.
Include entry ladders or stairs for safe access without climbing over pool walls. External A-frame ladders are usually included in kits. Interior staircase systems allow walk-in access.
With regular maintenance like chemical testing and water changes, an above ground pool will provide hours of backyard fun for years to come!
Bluebird Houses
Inviting bluebirds to nest in your yard allows you to enjoy these beautiful native songbirds up close. Bluebirds are cavity nesters and appreciate a custom wood house placed 5-10 feet up facing southeast.
Building a quality bluebird house provides bluebirds with a safe spot to raise young outside of competition with invasive house sparrows. As forests were cleared, competition grew fierce over the remaining tree cavities that bluebirds rely on for nesting.
Place bluebird houses in open areas surrounded by some trees, like fields, meadows, or lawns. Ensure the entry hole is 1 1/2 inches wide, tailored to bluebirds. Avoid perches which allow larger birds to take over.
Use untreated pine lumber so the house can breathe. The interior floor should be rough-textured for a good grip when entering. Make sure to include ventilation and drainage holes up top.
Mount bluebird houses on metal poles or posts greener than 120 feet from the brush. This deters predators like snakes and cats.
Monitor your box weekly and remove old nests each fall. Enjoy watching the charming nesting behaviors and witnessing the babies hatching each season.
Providing appropriate bluebird boxes lets you easily attract these lovely native songbirds for rewarding backyard wildlife viewing and conservation.
Canopies
A backyard canopy lets you expand your living area out into the fresh air while still providing shade and weather protection. Canopies make excellent covers for seating areas, hot tubs, or outdoor kitchens to help you get the most use from your deck or patio.
Choose between stationary and retractable canopy styles. Stationary shades remain fixed in place while retractable canopies can roll out or be lowered as needed.
Select from square, rectangle, hexagon, and triangle-shaped canopies. The right shape depends on your space parameters.
Many canopies feature open sides that allow breezes and light through. You can add side curtains or screens for more enclosed protection when desired.
Opt for sturdy metal frames over wood that can warp or rot over time. Aluminum and steel hold up better outside.
Weather-resistant canopy fabric comes in acrylic, polyester, and olefin. Waterproof and UV-resistant materials prevent mold/mildew.
Install canopy anchor fittings securely into the ground or deck structure to properly frame the canopy and prevent blowing over.
With good anchoring and durable materials, backyard canopies enable you to enjoy the outdoors rain or shine!
Chicken Coops
Keeping chickens in your backyard supplies you with fresh eggs daily and endearing feathered pets. Chicken coops give your flock a safe roosting spot and protect them from predators at night.
You can buy a pre-made chicken coop or build your own to suit your needs. Consider how many chickens you want when determining coop size. The average chicken needs 2-4 square feet of floor space.
Site your coop on a flat, dry area with good drainage and ventilation. Elevate coops on platforms to prevent water pooling and rodent access.
Include perches at least 18 inches off the floor where chickens can comfortably roost. Add nesting boxes lined with bedding for egg laying.
Provide easy access doors for you along with hatch doors, windows, or vents for ventilation and light. Insulate walls and ceilings to control temperature.
Fence in an attached outdoor run so chickens have room to roam and forage safely. Use small gauge wire fencing secured to the ground to keep out predators.
Keep coops clean by removing manure regularly. Provide fresh food and water daily. With a quality coop setup, you’ll love having this mini farm right outside!
Compost Bins
Composting yard waste and food scraps at home reduces waste sent to landfills while creating free garden fertilizer. Compost bins neatly corral decomposing organic matter right in your backyard.
Compost bin styles include stationary bins, tumblers, or simple wire cages. Choose bins made from rot-resistant wood, plastic, or galvanized metal.
Position your compost bin directly on bare soil to allow beneficial organisms to access the contents. Choose a level, well-draining spot.
What can you compost? Yard trimmings, leaves, grass clippings, hay, vegetables, fruit scraps, and coffee grounds all break down. Avoid meat, oils, or pet waste.
Rotate and mix the compost periodically to introduce oxygen and foster decomposition. Keep the pile evenly moist like a wrung-out sponge without saturating it.
In 4-6 months active compost will be dark, crumbly, sweet-smelling, and ready to nourish plants. Use compost to amend flowerbeds, gardens, or lawns.
Closed bins keep piles tidy, odors contained, and pests out of your compost. Take advantage of this free, eco-friendly fertilizer source for your backyard!
Flagstone Patios
Flagstone patios have an organic, free-flowing look compared to concrete or brick pavers. Available in sandstone, bluestone, slate, and more, flagstones come in a range of sizes, shapes, and earthy colors.
Plan the shape and layout of your patio, allowing at least 3 feet of clearance around any furniture. Mark the perimeter with landscape paint or cords.
Excavate the area 8-12 inches down. Compact the soil and add a 4-6 inch layer of crushed stone for drainage. Cover with 2-3 inches of smooth sand.
On the sand base, place flagstones using stone chisels and mallets to maneuver them into position. Maintain even joints of 1/4-1/2 inches between stones.
Larger flagstones can be used for stepping stones or edging. Smaller pieces fill gaps in the main surface area.
Use landscape fabric to inhibit weed growth between joints. Sweep polymeric sand over the crevices for stability and delineation.
Sealing the surface yearly will maintain the stone’s appearance. Flagstone patios complement casual, natural-style backyards and provide charming rustic appeal.
Fire Rings
Cozying up around an outdoor fire pit is a favorite backyard pastime when the weather cools. Prefabricated steel fire pits come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes to match your yard.
For a more custom look, you can build your fire pit from stones, bricks, or concrete blocks. Stack materials at least 12 inches high and line the inside with fireproof brick or mortar.
To fuel flames, choose a propane or natural gas insert kit for convenience and smokeless burning. Wood-burning fire pits produce a more crackling ambiance.
Position your fire pit on a non-combustible base like concrete, stone, or gravel at least 10 feet from structures, trees, or anything flammable.
Provide comfy, weather-resistant seating around the fire pit like benches, stools, or outdoor cushions. Add decorative touches like grates, spark screens, or firewood storage nearby.
Keep a hose, fire extinguisher, and shovel accessible as safety precautions. Douse fires fully with water before leaving.
A properly constructed fire pit’s glowing warmth transforms your backyard into an inviting destination after dark for you to unwind.
Fountains
The tranquil sound of trickling water makes fountains a favorite focal point in any backyard. There are lots of fountain styles to choose from ranging in size from small to grand.
- Tiered fountains feature multiple stacked basins that water cascades down for pleasing visual and audio effects. Tiered fountains come in various shapes including rectangles, squares, and circles.
- Pedestal fountains showcase decorative basins atop column bases or short pedestals. These work well in compact spaces.
- Wall fountains mount directly onto vertical surfaces like fences, houses, or garden walls. They should be lightweight unless bolted into studs.
For durability outdoors, choose fountains made from quality materials like natural stone, copper, or concrete. Resin fountains tend to fade quicker.
Recirculating pump systems prevent water from becoming stagnant, letting fountains run cleanly and efficiently. They’re easier to maintain than bird bath-style fountains.
Position your water feature in a high-traffic area visible from seating areas, patios, or garden beds where the soothing sounds can be enjoyed.
Spotlight fountains at night using landscape lighting to create dramatic, scenic accents. The pleasant trickling sounds lend any backyard a serene atmosphere.
Hammocks
Relaxing outdoors in a breezy hammock is heavenly. Look for quality hammocks made with weather-resistant nylon or mold-resistant cotton fabric for durability.
Gather all the needed hanging hardware. This includes carabiners or tree straps on each end and chain, rope, or hammock hooks in between depending on length.
Calculate the distance between hanging points based on hammock size. Standard hammocks need supports spaced 4 to 6 feet apart. Ensure attachments are securely fixed into studs or strong trees.
Lie diagonally rather than lengthwise in a hammock, which distributes your weight better across the fabric for optimal comfort and stability.
Include pillows for extra head and neck support. Hammocks with attached wooden or canvas spreader bars offer a flatter sleeping surface.
Portable hammock stands allow use anywhere outdoors and let you adjust the height. Avoid twisting or flipping. Sit centered to keep the hammock balanced.
Investing in a well-made hammock with quality hardware will have you lounging outdoors trouble-free for seasons to come.
Grill Gazebos
Grill gazebos are outdoor structures designed to house your barbecue grill in style while protecting it from the elements.
Choose wood, vinyl, aluminum, or powder-coated steel gazebos in square, rectangular, or octagonal shapes. Ensure dimensions provide ample coverage for your grill.
Many gazebos feature built-in side tables, cabinets, and electrical outlets for grilling convenience. Granite or tile countertops offer prep space.
Site gazebos on non-combustible surfaces like concrete pads, brick, or stone. Allow at least 10 feet of clearance from siding, plants, fences, or anything flammable.
Open walls encourage air circulation to prevent smoke buildup inside. Close off the front panel to block the wind.
Add lighting fixtures overhead to illuminate the interior for nighttime use. String lights work well.
Clean the interior regularly to prevent grease buildup. Felt roof panels protect from rain drips.
Investing in a grill gazebo prevents wear and tear on your BBQ while giving your outdoor cooking area an upgraded built-in look.
Outdoor Chaise Lounges
Lounge in comfort on outdoor chaise lounges perfect for sunbathing, reading, or relaxing poolside. Look for adjustable reclining chairs so you can customize your positioning.
Durable chaise frames come in materials like wicker, aluminum, wood, or weather-resistant plastic to withstand sun, rain, and humidity.
Thick cushions and padded backs covered in waterproof, UV-resistant fabric provide a comfy resting spot. Look for quick-drying mesh or canvas textiles.
Sturdy double support backs offer proper ergonomic alignment of your head, neck, and spine for optimal comfort and relaxation.
For easy mobility, folding aluminum chaise lounges are lightweight options that can be quickly folded up and brought indoors.
Place chaise lounges in sunny locations, angling them to follow the shade as desired. Use adjustable canopies for shade coverage that moves with the sun.
Pair chaise lounges with side tables, ottomans, umbrellas, or small pensions to create a cozy relaxation zone perfect for napping, reading, and lounging in style.
Outdoor Playhouses
Outdoor playhouses inspire hours of imaginative play, adventures, and hideouts for kids. You can buy a prefabricated playhouse or build a customized cottage-style house.
Use quality exterior building materials like pressure-treated lumber for framing. Opt for cedar or redwood which withstands weather well.
Consider details like flower boxes, shutters, arched doors, and windows that spark roleplaying creativity. Add a play stove or table.
Install playhouses on a flat, level area with proper drainage. Use sand or mulch to create a safe, cushioned ground cover that prevents slips and falls.
Allow ample interior headroom so kids can stand fully upright inside. Increase ceiling height if adding a loft or raised platform.
Include electricity to power lights or fans. Ventilation prevents moisture and allows air circulation. Insulate to control temperature.
Let kids customize their playhouse with decorations, shelves, and toys to round out the imaginary play experience.
Locate playhouses within clear view of the house for safety. A backyard playhouse becomes a breezy clubhouse where creativity can flourish.
Outdoor Rocking Chairs
Rocking chairs allow you to enjoy the soothing motion of rocking while admiring the views of your backyard garden. Select rocking chairs with durable frames built to withstand outdoor elements.
Materials like powder-coated aluminum, recycled plastic lumber, and resin wicker are weather-resistant options that won’t corrode or splinter.
Look for deep, contoured seats with ergonomically angled backs that provide comfortable support. Thick seat and back cushions add comfort.
Choose cushions wrapped in fade-resistant and water-repellent fabrics. Quick-dry mesh and woven acrylic withstand the elements.
Place rockers on porches, patios, decks, or grassy areas. Avoid uneven ground that could cause a rocking imbalance.
Include ottomans so you can prop up your feet. Add side tables for refreshments and throw pillows for cozy cushioning.
Install outdoor lighting above rockers to illuminate evening rocking sessions. The gentle rocking motion helps melt away stress.
Rocking outdoors with a loved one, feeling close to nature’s beauty is a nostalgic, soothing pleasure for mind and body.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are classic backyard staples perfect for dining and playing games al fresco. The standard picnic table design has two attached benches and plank tabletops built on strong support beams.
Materials like wood, plastic, and metal are weather-resistant, easy to clean, and durable for outdoor use. Opt for splinter-free lumber like cedar or synthetic wood.
Look for folding picnic table options to save space when not entertaining. Umbrellas or canopies will provide shade coverage.
Position your picnic table on a flat, level spot of grass, a patio, or under trees for cooling shade. Anchor the legs into the ground for stability.
Add fun details like colorful umbrellas, tablecloths, or planters full of flowers to create an inviting picnic environment.
Sand and seal the wood regularly to prevent cracking and warping from weather exposure over time. Cover when not in use.
Gather family and friends for summertime barbecues, mealtimes, and recreational games outside at your sturdy picnic table.
Pergolas
Pergolas are eye-catching backyard structures that visually define spaces using their open, slatted roofs. Often featured in courtyard gardens, pergolas provide dappled shade that filters sunlight through.
Construct pergola frames from weather-resistant woods like cedar or pressure-treated pine using adequate beam spans for safety. Or try low-maintenance vinyl, composite, or aluminum kits.
Position pergolas over patios, walkways, or dining seating areas to create defined shaded spaces for gathering and relaxing.
Let climbing vines like grapes, wisteria, or roses grow up the vertical supports for eco-friendly “living roofs” with beautiful flowers and foliage.
For ambiance, string lights through the overhead slat support to illuminate evening gatherings below. Add side curtains for increased shade.
Stain or seal wood pergolas annually to protect them from sun damage, rot, and insects. Vinyl and aluminum are low-maintenance options.
Offering both style and function, pergolas lend architectural interest while cooling your patio, deck, or garden from warm sun exposure.
Projector Screens
Outdoor projector screens let you transform your backyard into an open-air home theater for entertaining. There are portable screens and permanent screens to choose from.
Inflatable screens provide portable, lightweight setups easy to move and store. They may waver slightly in windy conditions.
Taut PVC vinyl screens offer smooth projection surfaces for the clearest picture resolution and color but need rear support frames.
For permanent installation, mount screens on homes, garages, or posts using back framing and angle brackets secured into studs.
Use white matte screens to prevent glare and contrasts that overexpose or washout images. Viewing angles are 160 degrees+ for flexible seating.
Match screen size to projector lumens rating. Position projectors using the ideal rear throw distance from the screen to optimize image size.
Arrange speakers and test AV connections before each use. Enjoy movies, TV, and games outdoors with cinematic scale as summer entertainment!
Porch Swings
The classic comforting motion of porch swings invokes nostalgia. Suspend swings from hooks, chains, or an A-frame stand designed for swinging.
Select porch swings made of durable, weather-resistant materials. Powder-coated steel or sustainably sourced wood will withstand the elements.
Cushioned swings with fade and water-resistant fabric provide added comfort. Look for removable cushions that can be brought inside during storms.
For safety, hang swings from eye bolts screwed into studs or sturdy beams rated to hold over 600 lbs securely. Chains should have load limits.
Position your swing facing beautiful scenery or your backyard garden to fully soak in the calming views. Add side tables for refreshments.
Gently swinging with a loved one, breathing in nature’s restorative fresh air is a relaxing joy. Porch swings offer laidback lounging and companionship time outdoors.
Sandboxes
Sandboxes provide endless fun for kids to dig, mold, and tunnel while keeping sand safely contained. Sandbox frames come in wood, composite lumber, or plastic in shapes like squares, circles, and turtles.
Build your own or buy a prefab sandbox with a cover to keep elements out between uses. A cover also prevents pets from using it.
Locate sandboxes in light shade which prevents overheating in summer. Position within sightlines from the house for parent safety monitoring.
Surround boxes with edging bricks or landscape walls to prevent sand spills into grass or gardens. Add proper drainage holes in the bottom.
Fill the box with at least 10-12 inches of clean play sand for engagement. Deeper is better for more creative fun.
Include plastic shovels, buckets, rakes, sifters, and molds for molding architectural creations and castles.
Establish rules like no food or drinks in the box to maintain hygiene. Supervise use. Doing regular raking and sealing keeps sandboxes fresh for ongoing play.
Screen Houses
Screen houses allow you to enjoy patios, decks, and gardens bug-free, protected from mosquitos and flies. Screened enclosures utilize fine mesh netting on all four sides for ventilation while preventing insect entry.
Durable aluminum or vinyl frames withstand the weather and won’t corrode over time. Ensure tight seams and edges to keep insects out.
Roll-down shades allow adjustable airflow. Retractable screens offer flexibility to open sides when desired.
Look for lightweight pop-up styles with folding frames on wheels for easy portability between yard areas.
Aim for darker “no-see-um” mesh that blocks even tiny insects like gnats or no-see-ums from permeating the screen.
Position screen houses over seating areas ideal for dining, games, or lounging while avoiding bug bites.
Investing in a quality screen house enables you to entertain, dine outdoors, and enjoy the open air without irritating critters pestering you and your guests.
Sheds
Backyard sheds provide valuable storage space to organize lawn equipment, bikes, pool accessories, and other outdoor gear neatly. Sheds keep belongings tidy yet accessible.
Consider the dimensions you need for shelving, floor space, and height to stand inside comfortably. Typical sizes range from small lean-tos up to 12×16 feet cottages.
Durability is key for sheds, as they face full weather exposure. Look for rot/rust-resistant builds like vinyl, resin, powder-coated metal, or pressure-treated wood.
Shed flooring should be a smooth, solid foundation. Concrete slabs, patio blocks, or wood decking prevents flooding issues or shifting.
Doors and windows should be reinforced and lockable to secure your stored items. Ventilate to control humidity. Add shelving, electrical, and ramps.
The site sheds on flat, level ground or anchored to concrete in windy spots. Allow 1-2 feet of spacing around the shed perimeter for easy access.
With regular shed cleanouts and upkeep, you’ll get years of use from your storage sanctuary keeping the yard looking great.
Trampolines
Bouncing on trampolines provides thrilling exercise for the whole family outdoors. Trampolines come in round or rectangular shapes fitted with durable mats and frames.
Purchase trampolines sized appropriately for your available yard space. Measure at least 6 ft clearance around the trampoline perimeter and overhead.
Trampoline mats should be made of tightly woven UV-resistant material like polypropylene for durability and heat protection.
Look for safety enclosures that surround the trampoline using nets and foam-padded poles to prevent injuries and fall.
Site trampolines on flat, level ground using a soft base like sand or bark to prevent settling. Stabilize the frame against winds.
Allow only one person at a time to jump. Establish safety rules like no flips for beginners. Limit jumpers to appropriate ages and weights.
Anchor legs deeply into the ground or use trampoline anchor kits. Keep away from pools, trees, fences, and other play structures.
With routine inspections for worn parts, backyard trampolines provide a fun way to encourage activity and exercise.
Treehouses
Backyard treehouses invoke childhood dreams of magical escape and adventure. Nestled high in mature trees, treehouses surround you with nature and imagination.
Carefully select trees like oak, maple, and ash that are healthy, over 15 inches in diameter, with sturdy straight trunks that can safely support a treehouse.
Design a compact, lightweight framed platform secured with treehouse attachment bolts screwed into the trunk without damaging tree tissue.
Add railings, windows, and ladders or stairs for safe access. Use rot-resistant cedar, redwood, or treated pine lumber. Allow room for tree growth over time.
Furnish treehouses with chairs, shelves, lighting, and other accessories. Just remember weight limits and keep only necessary items inside.
Inspect treehouses each year and after storms for any damage, decay, or hazards needing repair to ensure safety is maintained.
Sharing the whimsical experience with kids or grandkids fosters imagination, adventure, and a lifelong connection to nature. Backyard treehouses provide peaceful elevated hideaways.
Tree Swings
Tree swings are nostalgic backyard classics providing simple outdoor fun across generations. A sturdy tree that can support the weight is key for safety.
Choose mature tree species with strong straight trunks and healthy scaffold branches like oak, maple, cedar, or birch.
Drill holes through sturdy branch joints to thread swing rope through. Use tree strap mounts to attach ropes instead of damaging the bark.
Select durable swing seats made of weather-resistant canvas, rubber, or stained wood. Metal or plastic seats can get hot.
Hang swings at least 24 inches off the ground. Position over soft ground covers like mulch or grass to cushion falls.
Allow 6 feet of clearance from structures like fences or other trees that kids could swing into by accident.
Replace fraying ropes every year before they break. Check for cracked wood or signs of wear monthly.
Tree swings have inspired outdoor play and created fond memories for children across generations.
