DIY experts say you can transform your backyard on a budget with five simple design ideas.
He shared affordable tips for keeping your outdoor space looking inviting throughout the seasons.
As summer approaches, many homeowners are starting to spruce up their backyards for entertaining and relaxing guests.
If you start a DIY garden project without a clear plan, costs can quickly add up.
Glen Peskett is a DIY expert and owner of tool supplier Saxton Blades.
He shared the budget-friendly hack he swears by to upgrade his backyard.
Read more about backyard upgrades
stylish shelves
Mr Peskett said recycled scaffolding boards could be used to create outdoor shelving to brighten up “dull” exterior walls.
“This sturdy, all-weather option adds rustic charm to your patio area,” he said.
“Arrange shelves at different heights and fill them with a variety of plants and planters to create a lively display.”
You can give your space a fresh look with different decorations throughout the year.
Magic mirror
The DIY expert said outdoor mirrors are perfect for small gardens as they create a “brighter, more spacious” atmosphere.
“Make it your own with a frameless mirror or garden trellis,” he said.
“Use a small handsaw to cut the trellis to size, paint it, and attach it to the mirror using Grab Glue.
“Once dry, securely attach the mirror to an outdoor wall or fence panel to add an attractive accent to your outdoor decor.”
Renovating an existing dining table is a great project for DIY beginners.
Glenn Peckett
The mirror designed for patios is available from Amazon for $111.27.
One customer was delighted to have sprayed it with a sealer to make it more durable outdoors, while another raved that the space had been “strengthened.”
Perfect sitting comfort
Making a chair for your backyard is more rewarding than buying one already made at a furniture store.
According to Peskett, this is also a great way to ensure that your furniture is customized to your needs.
“Creating outdoor seating using reclaimed wood requires some DIY skills, but it’s a manageable project that saves you money and can be tailored to your needs,” he said.
“Incorporating a lift-up seat and storage space underneath provides a convenient place to store garden cushions and throws when not in use.”
He recommended cleaning garden furniture regularly with mild detergent and water and applying a protective sealant to prevent weather damage.
They also suggested storing furniture indoors or covering it in bad weather to extend its lifespan.
dazzling dining
“Remodeling an existing dining table is a great project for DIY beginners,” he said.
“Rather than replacing a worn-out wooden table, give it a fresh coat of paint and give it a makeover.
“Lightly sand and wipe the surface, then apply a few coats of exterior paint in a color that matches your style.”
The spray paint, which can be used on exterior surfaces such as wood, plastic, and metal, is available on Amazon for $6.48.
How to turn your backyard into a little paradise
Houna Bech is an interior designer and founder of the style blog With Houna.
She shared with The US Sun her five tips for transforming a bleak outdoor space into a “sensory little paradise.”
- embrace nature
“Use landscaping, trees, flowers, and the organic environment as your muse,” she said.
2. Bringing the inside out
“Repeat color palettes, textures, and materials to make the transition between indoors and outdoors seamless,” she said.
3. Create zones for specific purposes
“Maybe I'll design a luxurious cabana with a plush lounger and vanity for an outdoor makeup session with my girlfriends,” she said.
4. Make comfort a priority
“I'm talking about cloud-like sectionals, upholstered daybeds, and oversized weatherproof poufs that you can really wrap yourself in,” she said.
5. Be creative
“Finally, transform your entire outdoor area into an artistic installation,” says Beck.
cocktail bar
An outdoor bar comes in handy when entertaining visitors during the summer months.
“Repurpose old potted benches to create a budget-friendly cocktail bar,” says Peskett.
“The bottom shelf provides plenty of storage for drinks and glasses, and the drawers are convenient for storing cooking utensils and cocktail-making equipment.
“As a practical prep area, we will tile the work surface with stainless steel for easy cleaning.”