There is truly nothing better than opening the back door into your backyard for the first time every spring. When the snow melts, temperatures start to rise, and the flowers start to bloom, there is no place I would rather be than my backyard. Here are some necessary items to take your backyard from fine to fierce.
Dining Set
I love barbecuing and there is nothing worse than cooking a meal outside, just to go inside to eat it; or worse, eating it on the ground. Having a good outdoor patio furniture dining set is necessary for any gathering. One of my favorite things to do is sit outside after dinner with a drink in one hand playing cards with friends and family. I like a dining set that has enough seating for all my friends and family to sit, laugh, eat, and enjoy.
Counter or Bar
When I host a barbeque, I want the whole spread outside where people can come and grab as they want. Counter space is a must, even outside. You can choose to get a counter with storage underneath, or a little bar with stools. I chose a little bar with stools that match my patio furniture.
Having a bar next to the barbecue has been a game changer in my life. Not only does it provide a space for all the food and drinks while I am hosting, but it is also a great small area to have my coffee in the morning.
Outdoor Rug
It might seem silly to put a rug outside, but as your bare feet touch the cold deck in the morning, you will thank me. Online Outdoor rugs make your whole outdoor space more comfortable and inviting. It also protects your bare feet from the cold, and debris that can find its way onto your deck or patio.
Find a rug that can be washed in the washer, or even better, a stain-resistant outdoor rug that just needs to be hosed off when it gets dirty. These rugs are easy to maintain and make your backyard pop. For an even more personalized touch, consider the option to design your own outdoor rug. This way, you can ensure it perfectly matches your style and outdoor living space requirements, making your backyard truly unique
Umbrella or Shade
Listen, I love the sun as much as the rest of us, but I cannot let my skin be in contact with the rays for longer than 10 minutes without feeling like I am going to catch on fire. This is where a shade or umbrella comes in handy. For my backyard, I have gone with an umbrella over my dining set.
It gives me a “chilling at the beach” vibe that makes me excited to go into my backyard. When finding a shade or umbrella, make sure it provides adequate shade for the whole area. This is the easiest way to keep your family safe from sun damage. For more information visit https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm.
Hammock
The reader in me makes this one a must-have for the summer time. There is nothing I love better than swinging from a hammock while reading a good book. You can take two approaches to this piece of furniture: hang from a tree, or hang from a stand. There is no right or wrong answer for a hammock. I prefer to hang from a tree to limit the amount of stuff I have to move from the grass when mowing.
However, tree hanging requires the right type of tree and the right type of hanging material. If you use narrow rope or straps it can cut into the tree and cause damage. Choose thick polyester straps to protect the trees from the rope. The stands are a great option if you don’t have the right trees, or want to be able to move your hammock around easily. Whatever hammock you choose, having one will make your backyard the paradise you deserve.
Fire Pit
There is nothing more important for a backyard than a fire pit. Summers should be huddled up next to a fire, listening to the crackling of the flames and the crickets chirping. Having a fire pit creates a focal point for your outdoor gathering. Not to mention, without a fire pit, how would you cook s’mores? I like the excitement of starting a fire with my bare hands, plus the smell is nice, so I chose a wood-burning fire pit.
Depending on your space and willingness to smell like smoke, you can also get propane or gas fireplaces. The range of designs that fire pits come in make it easy to find one that fits seamlessly with your backyard design.
Summer is the perfect time to rejuvenate your backyard. You will end up spending all day there once you have found the right pieces for your style. But as you prepare for fall, check out this article to help you find the necessary pieces to keep you in your backyard through fall.