Outdoor living is trending in the US, and most homeowners want it to be a part of their lifestyles. According to a 2022 survey poll, 76% of American homeowners considered yard space to be one of the key elements. Additionally, 72% had it on their wishlist when looking for a residential property.
Even a small backyard can be enough for those dreaming of lazy afternoons outdoors.
You may lounge in the area during weekends or invite your friends for parties under the stars. All you need to do is to prep your outdoor zone a bit.
The best part is that you can transform a small backyard into an appealing and functional space without breaking the bank. A few thoughtful design strategies and budget-friendly materials can make it all doable.
In this article, we will share some practical and frugal tips for upgrading your small backyard on a budget.
Plan Your Space Wisely
According to Today’s Homeowners, the current national average yard size in the US is 23,301 square feet. That makes almost half an acre, which seems to be a good figure. However, the larger ones are mainly in states like Alaska, Alabama, Maine, and Vermont. Other states like California, New Jersey, Hawaii, and Maryland have much smaller yards in the 7,000 to 9,000 square feet range.
These numbers are mainly for front yards, and backyards tend to be even smaller. Before diving into any upgrades, create a plan to maximize the available area. Decide how you want to use it whether for gardening, entertaining, or relaxation.
This will help you prioritize features that align with your lifestyle. For example, avid gardeners can allocate space for raised beds or container gardens. Party lovers can include comfortable seating and a fire pit in the backyard design.
Embrace Vertical Gardening
In small spaces, going vertical can be a great way to add value. Green.org notes that vertical gardening is becoming popular in the urbanized world. It works well with limited space and aligns with the need for sustainable living. Designing them requires consideration of several factors, such as plant species, structural support, light availability, and irrigation requirements.
You can install trellises or vertical planters to cultivate climbing plants like beans or flowering vines. This approach adds greenery and creates visual interest in your outdoor space. Additionally, vertical design enables you to keep the floor area clear, reducing the space constraint problem in your small backyard.
Use Affordable Hardscaping Materials
If you want to redefine the look of your backyard without extensive landscaping work, hardscaping can do the trick for you. Opt for affordable materials such as decomposed granite for pathways and pea gravel for a chic patio area. These materials cost a fraction of traditional ones.
Look for seasoned patio contractors for valuable advice regarding the right material. They can suggest options that look good and last long without burning a hole in your wallet. Moreover, when upgrading your outdoor space, it is better to steer clear of DIY. While you may spend a bit on professional services, the results are worthwhile.
According to Stefano’s Landscaping, expert contractors can also offer design suggestions for your small space. Whether you want a backyard pool, fire pit, kitchen, or a large patio, they will recommend the best designs.
Incorporate Multi-Functional Furniture
When it comes to upgrading your small backyard, outdoor furniture is another essential factor. Statista data shows that the average per capita spending on outdoor furniture in the US was $51.75 in 2022. This is almost double of $26.06 as of 2007, but less than $59.64 in 2021, the pandemic year.
Plan your budget whether buying outdoor furniture the first time or refreshing it. You can invest in multi-functional outdoor pieces to save space and money. For example, benches that double as storage boxes or tables that can expand when entertaining guests make good investments. You can also opt for foldable chairs and collapsible tables as they can be easily stored away when not in use.
Add Lighting for Ambiance
Once your small backyard is ready with these upgrades, give it a final touch with some affordable lighting fixtures. Outdoor lighting can enhance your backyard’s atmosphere, making it warm and inviting during the evenings. It also enhances the safety of your outdoor space and deters intruders.
String lights, solar-powered garden lights, or lanterns are good options. They create a warm ambiance without the need for extensive electrical work. You can highlight pathways and seating areas, and even deck up your plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some low-cost plants apt for small backyards?
Compact species like dwarf shrubs and perennials do not need extensive space to thrive. This makes them ideal for small backyards. You can also grow herbs like basil and mint in hanging pots to create a vertical garden. Add flowering plants such as marigolds or petunias for a pop of color.
How can I make my small backyard appear larger?
You can create an illusion of space in a small backyard by using lighter colors for fences. Light-colored furniture also reflects light. Also, play with variations in the height of plans, with taller plants at the back and shorter ones in front. This adds depth without cluttering the view.
Is it possible to DIY backyard upgrades?
Yes, you can try DIY projects for backyard upgrades. Beyond saving money for frugal homeowners, this approach helps in personalizing spaces. You can try building raised garden beds, painting fences, or creating simple pathways with gravel. For complex projects like patio installation or repair, call an expert.
Frugal homeowners can successfully upgrade their small backyards into beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. With these cost-effective tips, it is possible to create an area that reflects their personal style while staying within budget. Adopting a plush outdoor lifestyle is easier than you imagine!
