Create a Gorgeous Outdoor Oasis: Backyard Construction Ideas

Small backyard construction projects can make a huge impact on the look of your outdoor living space. Who doesn’t want to walk outside and feel like they are in a beautiful outdoor oasis? Here at Structurally Speaking, we help homeowners design the perfect deck or porch. However, let’s take a look at a few smaller construction projects you can add as well if you really want to create a gorgeous resort-like backyard space.

Walkways for Function and Beauty

Adding a simple walkway is something most people can do in an afternoon. You can go for stepping stones or loose gravel for a very simple project. Or, upgrade the look with some concrete pavers. We can also design walkways if you build a floating deck that is unattached to your home. Line your walkway with some solar lamps or add some mulch and plants if you love to garden for a special touch.

Adding a Fire Pit

We love fire pits! You can add a built-in sunken fire pit area to your deck if you work with an experienced deck designer like Structurally Speaking. However, you can also add a simple fire pit area using just some bricks, sand, gravel, and a few other supplies. Either way, fire pits give you a beautiful place to relax with friends and family in the evening or even cook up some hot dogs and s’mores. Make sure to position your fire pit at least 15 feet from your home and other structures, and always make sure you have a water supply as a precaution.

Gorgeous Water Features

Water features like waterfalls, fountains, and ponds are a great way to instantly upgrade your backyard. Like with most projects, they can be extremely fancy and integrated into a large backyard design or they can be a low-key weekend DIY project. With water features, you do have to ensure that you maintain the proper water levels and water chemistry. Therefore, make sure you have the time for water feature maintenance before you commit to this backyard project.

Upgrading Your Seating Areas

The easiest way to make your backyard more functional is to add seating. We recommend thinking about your backyard layout as “zones” where you’ll do different activities. Then, you can plan your seating accordingly. For example, you may want to add an outdoor dining table near the doorway into your home or near the grill. Or, you may want to add lounge chairs in a sunny part of your yard if you like to sunbathe. You can also add built-in seating for your deck with wooden benches, which can serve double duty as storage or railing.

Upscale Deck and Porch Designs

Last but certainly not least, one of the best backyard projects to consider is a deck or porch itself. These outdoor living spaces can have upscale design that really elevates the look of your backyard. In other words, you aren’t limited to a boring square platform of wood.

When you work with the Structurally Speaking design team, we’ll start by talking about how you want your space to function and the vibe you want for your backyard. Some people want a family-friendly space with lots of room for activities, for example. Others, on the other hand, want an upscale oasis perfect for hosting. Still others want a relaxing spa-like space.

We can help you get the vibe you want for your new deck or porch by using the right colors, decking materials, and patterns. You might benefit from a multi-level deck, a combination deck and screened porch, a deck built around a tree, or an unusual design to fit the shape of your property. If you can dream it, we can build it.

FAQs About Backyard Construction

Before you hire a team for your next backyard construction project, here are a few frequently asked questions to consider. Remember, you can contact us anytime if you have other questions.

Do I need to hire a professional?

Some backyard projects are fine for to do yourself, but in other cases, you’re best off hiring professionals like our team. We recommend sticking to using a professional if you need permits, like you do for a deck or porch. When in doubt, give us a call to talk about your project.

Is my backyard big enough for a deck?

Almost all backyards are big enough for at least a small deck! Remember, you can get creative with your space by building a second story deck or a wrap-around deck that takes advantage of space on the side of your home.

What is the best backyard layout for my home?

It depends on your backyard’s shape and how you want to use the space. We believe that the best backyard layout is both functional and eye-pleasing. This article has a few tips about backyard layouts.

Should I build a deck or a porch?

Both decks and porches can make your backyard more functional. Each has its pros and cons. Typically, a deck is less expensive but you can’t use it as often. A porch will cost more, but you can use it during most of the year. Click here to read more about the pros and cons of each type of backyard project.

How can I make my deck more inviting?

We’d love to help you create a space that is open and inviting. Our team put together a few tips which you can read here, but at the end of the day, every backyard is different. Meet with us for a no-obligation free consultation about how you can improve your backyard. We’d love to show you what sets us apart! Contact us now for an appointment.