Refresher Course
Spend even a tiny bit of time on Pinterest and you’ll be inundated with photos of beautiful backyards. But according to Alexandra Gater, a stylist and home decor expert known for her cost-effective DIY projects, you don’t need a big budget to make your space sing. Here are three easy ways to inexpensively update your backyard.
Tend to your timber
A simple blast with a power washer can make a tired deck look like new. Power wash decking, secure loose railings and replace lost or broken post caps. These small tasks instantly spiff up a space—and they can help extend the life of your deck too. But take care with the power washer: Used improperly, it can gouge the wood.
Zhuzh it up
“When I’m designing a backyard or patio area, I layer accessories to make it feel like an extension of the living room,” Gater says. Throw a beautiful tablecloth over a bland picnic or bistro table, and hang planter baskets filled with seasonal blooms. Textured pillows and patterned rugs can also make a space comfier while bolstering its appeal. If you’d rather not bring your accessories inside every evening, splurge on high-quality pieces designed to withstand the elements.
Light the way
“A simple string of twinkle lights or a few lanterns can add instant ambience to a backyard space,” Gater says. Just make sure they’re rated for outdoor use. For homes that don’t have an external electrical outlet, look for lights that use a solar power source instead.