We’ve all seen the swanky, luxurious decks and patios feature on the Houzz app and in Architectural Digest and thought, I’d love for my outdoor space to look like that. Are you looking for a few ideas on how to make your backyard look nice? I’m here to tell you how to make your backyard look expensive and look nice at the same time. There’s nothing quite like unwinding outside on your balcony, deck, or patio after working all day. However, to truly enjoy the experience, you need some signature pieces that will transform your backyard into a swanky Oasis.
In the middle of the pandemic, I snagged floor model pieces of the Bal Harbour Outdoor Collection from Arhaus at Phipps Plaza in Atlanta, and my outdoor living experience was forever upgraded to a whole other level. To put it in perspective, it was the equivalent of having flown coach your entire life and then you fly first class; or wearing Cole Haan shoes
My saving grace during the pandemic was being able to retreat to my outdoor space. I happen to have both an upper and lower deck.
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Now that I am in the process of restaining my deck (Deck stain and paint are normally good for about 3-5 years before needing a redo.) (I’m using a Batavia Paint Sprayer to help along the process) I thought this would be a great time to share some of my absolute favorite must-have pieces that will pull your entire outdoor living space together.
Let’s get started and check out the curated list below of must-have aesthetic luxury items that can be added to an outdoor space to give you the ultimate luxury outdoor living experience.
21 Outdoor Items & Tips That You Need To Create A Luxury Styled Backyard
Outdoor Luxury Items That Will Make Your Backyard Look Nice
1. Outdoor Lighting is a key aspect that can set the tone for your space. Not only will it elevate the appeal of your outdoor area but also serves a functional purpose. It enables you to enjoy outdoor space even after the sun sets, while simultaneously enhancing the visibility and security of the surrounding environment. Consider adding a few string lights to a gazebo, or firepit or string them around the deck.
2. Fire Pit: A fire pit is a great luxury item to add to an outdoor space, especially during chilly fall or winter evenings. It adds warmth and ambiance to your outdoor space and is great for entertaining guests or spending time with family.
3. Outdoor Furniture: Investing in high-quality outdoor furniture can instantly elevate the look of your outdoor space. Choose furniture that is functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Egg Chair
- High-Quality Aluminum Framed Outdoor Furniture- The Bal Harbour Outdoor Furniture From Arhaus is what sets my space apart and adds the Glam Factor. Here is the deal, you can purchase cheap furniture or you can invest in something that you will still have and be in love with ten years from now.
4. Outdoor Kitchen Area To upgrade your backyard include an area for an outdoor kitchen. It will bump up the appeal and allows you to host outdoor parties and events. You can opt for a simple setup with a grill and a sink or go all out with a full kitchen setup with appliances and seating. There are tons of outdoor kitchens built using cinder blocks, which seems to be a popular option.
You can create an outdoor kitchen by incorporating a backyard makeover under $5000; if you build a DIY, you could easily do everything for under $1000. I am all about implementing backyard ideas on a budget.
5. Water Features: Adding water features such as a fountain, pond, or waterfall to your outdoor space can create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. The sound of running water has a therapeutic effect, and it can help reduce stress and anxiety. I think that less is more, I have a small Buddha water fountain in my front yard.
6. Underdecking System My lower deck is covered by an under-decking system that prevents it from getting wet. Southeastern Underdeck installed my system. I was living my best life on my deck with my Ikea furniture and cushions from Target (nothing against either, I love both Ikea and Target). Having an underdecking system truly enables me to have an outdoor extension of my home. I’ve enjoyed tons of days sitting on my lower deck protected from the rain.
7. Outdoor Movie Theater: This by far is one of my favorite things that I love about my deck space. Incorporating a movie theater into your outdoor living space makes you the envy of the neighborhood. I have enjoyed plenty of evenings on my lower deck watching movies with friends. It takes Netflix & Chill to another level. You don’t have to break the bank on this one.
- 120 Inch Projection Screen
- Portable Movie Projector
8. Outdoor Speakers: If you enjoy music then invest in a few outdoor speakers. I grabbed a table from Big Lots that doubles as a side table and speaker. It will also charge your phone. I also purchase an outdoor Roku Speaker System for my projector.
Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker with Lights
Yier Bluetooth Speakers, Wireless
9. Hardtop Gazeebo -No outdoor space is complete without a hardtop gazebo. The soft top gazebos require you to replace the outer covering every few years at $150 each time vs having a hard top Gazebo. A hardtop gazebo provides increased durability and longevity due to its sturdy construction. Make sure that you check back as I will be doing a reveal on the Hardtop Gazeebo I purchased from Big Lots.
- YOLENY 10’x13′ Hardtop Gazebo has solid reviews and you can’t beat the price!
- Purple Leaf Has an array of outdoor products
10. Plants No outdoor space is complete without plants. Not only do you want plants to provide beauty, but you also want plants that deter those pesky outdoor pests. Growing Lemon Grass and citronella plants in close proximity will provide you with another defense against mosquitos and make your space smell good. I also recommend that you plant quite a few perennials so that you aren’t having to plant year after year.
Hosta Perennials are on my list of favorite plants. They grow back each year and you can dig them up and divide them. They are extremely low maintenance if you are like me and don’t have a green thumb, they are perfect!
11. Rugs: Rugs will help to define and separate your space. By just adding a good quality outdoor rug, you can turn what was a drab space into a spectacular space and add a pop of color. Target is my go-to place when it comes to finding trendy rugs for your outdoor space. Make sure that your rug is the proper size.
12. Shaded Areas Don’t leave your guest to fry in the hot sun. Investing in a few stylish shade umbrellas with a pop of color will go a long way in upscaling your outdoor experience. Make sure that your umbrella shade is larger than the area you are trying to cover.
For a more polished look, consider using a shade sail. They will block 80-90% of the UV light, however, they don’t keep the rain out.
FRUITEAM 10FT Offset Hanging Patio Umbrella, Outdoor Market Cantilever Umbrella w/Easy Tilt Adjustment, with Crank & Cross Bar, Shade 95% UV Protection for Backyard, Poolside, Lawn and Garden
Outdoor Luxury Tips
1. Deep clean your space: This often simply overlooked aspect does factor into conveying luxury in your outdoor space. You can have the most glammed-up fabulous space, however, if it’s dirty and messy, your glam factor just walked away. Take the time to deep clean your space which may include a good power washing. Consider doing the following:
- Powerwash your deck and outdoor patio to remove all the dirt and grime.
- If your deck or concrete patio needs a refresh, it may be a great time to either repaint or restain worn areas. I’m currently using Behr Decking with a slight texture to redo my deck and concrete patio area.
- Make repairs. If you have deck boards that need repair, then replace them.
- Remove all old trash and debris from your outdoor area.
Cleaning Supplies To Use On Your Deck And Patio Area
- Wash Safe Spray and Clean Composite Deck Cleaner
- Scotts Outdoor Cleaner Multi Purpose Formula
- YONILL Deck Brush with Long Handle – Floor Scrub Brushes
2. Landscape your outdoor area: A little mulch or rocks will go a long way in creating that luxury vibe that you are looking for. Using perennials in your planting scheme will minimize the time that you have to spend on landscaping each year. Hostas are one of my favorite plants. Not only are they beautiful, they are hardy and you can split them in half to get new plants.
If you need additional inspiration, make sure you visit the Landscaping Network website. They have tons of great ideas, as well as “how to” on their blog site.
Mulch Glue is the best-kept secret, if you have ever wondered how homes have the most stunning manicured lawns that always seem to be in place- they use Mulch Glue, you can thank me later.
3. Critter control: We all love our outdoor space, however, nothing ruins the fun more than being attacked by mosquitos and crawly critters. I employ a variety of methods to keep them all a safe distance from my outdoor fun zones. Here are a few items that you can try.
- Essential Oils – There are a variety of essential oils that fight bugs naturally. I also suggest that you order a bottle of citronella oil from a candle shop- I’ve made my own citronella candles for outdoor use. I also spray my deck area down with citronella oil.
- Multi-Purpose Insect Control I use TERRO Ant Killer Plus. I simply create a nice barrier around my house.
Backyard On A Budget
Even if your money is tight, you can still create a luxurious feel by incorporating a few of the tips above. Starting with a blank slate will help you to imagine your vision. Pick one item to truly glam up. If money is really tight, then I would focus on making the rug the focal point and adding several perennials such as hostas. They tend to grow large and will fill in blank areas in your landscaping. Installing a few DIY posts to hang your backyard lights will indeed add ambiance to your yard and patio area.
Check on Facebook market place for deals on patio furniture. Someone is always selling or giving away patio furniture that could be refreshed with a coat of paint and new cushions.
———- OUTDOOR LIVING TIPS ———-
- Essential Oils will keep a variety of bugs at bay. I normally spray down my entire deck area and furniture with a combination of essential oils that deter all types of critters.
- Catnip will keep waterbugs and their cousins at a distance… Something in catnip deters waterbugs, I have sprayed a perimeter around my home and I’ve all but eliminated them as my home backs up to the woods.
Resources
When it comes to enjoying your outdoor space, you have to keep mosquitos at bay. I’ve used the Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Patio Shields and absolutely love them.
Final Thoughts On Glamming Up Your Outdoor Space
Whether you’re working with a small balcony or a sprawling backyard, there are endless possibilities for transforming your outdoor area into a beautiful and functional oasis. A fresh coat of paint or stain gives you a blank canvas to work with. With a few key pieces, you can upscale your outdoor space into something that rivals HGTV. Pick a few items from the above list and you are on your way to the perfect luxury outdoor oasis.
