The summer season is upon us, and that means all things outdoors. What better way to enjoy the sunshine, then in your own slice of heaven— your own backyard. If you’re worried about your yard not being up to par, don’t be! Here are 5 easy ways to transform your backyard into a relaxing space:

Easy Ways to Transform Your Backyard Into a Relaxing Space

Plant a Garden

Gardening is a great way to relax and relieve stress outdoors, and the end result adds to the atmosphere of your backyard. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are a few easy ways you can really transform the space into your sanctuary.

A garden is a great way to refresh your backyard and there are endless options to make it perfect for you. You can add pops of color with a wide variety of flowers. For beginners try planting:

Sunflowers
Marigolds
Pansies
Lavender

If you want to create an attractive, colorful garden—and reap excellent health benefits—plant some lavender. Not only is it a colorful choice, but studies show breathing in the scent of lavender can reduce anxiety and stress, and improve your sleep. This plant is perfect for summer, as it’s a great method for keeping mosquitos away, and it attracts butterflies and bees (who help your garden grow.)

If you’re looking for flowers that are more low-maintenance, wildflowers, dwarf daffodils, peonies, or hydrangeas are all great options.

Implement a Water Feature

Irrigation systems are a great way to be more water, cost, and time-efficient. They eventually pay for themselves, reduce weed growth, and are very low maintenance. All you need to do is set a timer, and you will never have to worry about over or underwatering your plants again. An in-ground sprinkler system requires you to know where electric cables and gas lines are buried in your yard, and where your main pipe is so you can access the main water line.

An installation like this might be a bit challenging and risky since you have to cut into the main water line. If you lack experience with pipe installation you can contact your local plumber for a quick and easy installation so you can kick back and relax with your flourishing garden.

By installing a pond, you add a fun and educational way to develop your own ecosystem. This is also a great DIY project for the entire family to enjoy and attract more wildlife— such as fish, bullfrogs, dragonflies, or colorful birds— to observe. A great way to customize your pond is to add in a waterfall or fountain. These additional features provide benefits to your pond which will improve water quality and reduce algae. For gardeners with experience, this is a great way to expand your garden by adding aquatic plants to your pond.

This Redfin article that we are featured in will teach you how incorporating elements such as calming water features can transform your outdoor area into a harmonious, peaceful sanctuary.

Give Yourself Some Privacy

A great way to give yourself a relaxing space is to ensure it’s private and quiet. Fencing will block out the noise—which is ideal for relaxing—from your surroundings and keep out unwanted guests (such as animals who want to eat your plants). A fence can also provide protection for your backyard. Based on where you are located, the elements can be harsh on your yard. A fence can provide your yard with shade from the sun and shelter from the wind.

As an added bonus, fencing adds equity to your home and requires minimal maintenance— which leaves more time to relax. A quick way to refresh your fence and add character to your space is with a fresh coat of paint or stain to make it look brand new.

Take a Seat

An outdoor seating area is a great addition to any backyard, and a great spot to kick your feet up and enjoy the outdoors. A deck or patio can be customized to fit your needs and style based on the layout of your yard, and there are pros and cons to both.

A deck is an open outdoor porch or platform that extends from your house, which can be covered or uncovered. They are easy to customize with paint or stain and can provide a cool area to relax due to the fact they absorb and retain less heat. If you’re looking for something low-maintenance, a deck may not be the right option as they require more than a patio. The materials decks are made of—typically wood— are more susceptible to weather and can rot over time, as well as fade and become discolored if not properly cared for.

A patio is lower to the ground—compared to a deck— and has more flexibility in design. In addition, patios provide a significant amount of privacy when hidden behind a fence or landscaping. You can add a pergola which adds benefits of aesthetic, shelter from wind and rain, and is a DIY project customized to fit your wants and needs. By designing a patio, you don’t need to worry about maintenance because they are extremely durable and have a long lifespan.

Add Finishing Touches

The final step to your backyard transformation is to decorate and personalize the space. The decor you choose will ultimately bring your yard together and create the atmosphere you’re looking for. It is important to remember not to clutter the space— this can leave you feeling stressed, causing you to avoid the area altogether. For ultimate relaxation, you can place cozy furniture and add mood lighting.

You can add a swing to cozy up with a book, a hammock to take a nap, or a patio set that offers both comfort, and style. If you already have your dream furniture— decorative pillows and all— give the fabric a quick clean to leave it looking fresh and new. By laying down a rug, you can transfer the cozy, comforting feelings of relaxing indoors to your outdoor space. A rug can finish off the space and give it a homey feel, all while being outside.

Install mood lighting throughout your backyard to illuminate the space, allowing you to enjoy it longer each day. You can also use lighting to highlight specific landscaping or aspects of your yard that you want to make a focal point.

The most important aspect of your transformation is to remember that it is all about you. You are creating a space to enjoy yourself— or with friends and loved ones— so choose items you know will help contribute to the relaxing atmosphere! By following these tips, you will have a finished outdoor area that you will love.