No matter the size of your outdoor space, clutter and disorganization will turn it from a potential paradise to a place of chaos. Taking the steps to optimize your environment will level up your backyard and turn it into what you’ve always dreamed of. Not sure where to begin? Check out these tips:
Be Purposeful with Seating
Seating is an integral part of your outdoor space. That said, out-of-place outdoor furniture only adds to backyard clutter. We recommend getting creative with seating and investing in space-saving furniture that’ll work just as well as that big outdoor couch you’ve been eyeing.
- The type of furniture you choose should be space-dependent. If you’re working with a smaller space, opt for smaller pieces of furniture that serve multiple purposes. A small coffee table with storage or shelving under it is perfect for both setting down drinks and storing blankets and pillows for the next time you have a late-night fire with your family and friends.
- If you have a bit more space to play around with, you can designate certain parts of your space for things like relaxing (couches) or dining (outdoor dining room sets).
- Multi-level decks are also perfect for sprucing up smaller outdoor spaces. You can choose from a variety of layouts and pick the one that suits your individual space.
- In all cases, think carefully about what you want to get out of your outdoor space and how your outdoor seating and furniture can help you achieve that.
Let Your Vertical Garden Grow
A vertical garden is a game-changer for smaller outdoor spaces—not only do you inject some colour and greenery, but you save space too!
- DIYers, this is where you can let your creativity shine. Spend an afternoon thinking about a project you can do yourself and which products you’ll need to buy to make it happen.
- Potted plants are another excellent space-saving option. Whatever option you choose, you’ll enjoy the same benefits of a regular garden and save some space in the process as well.
- Raised garden beds and planters also help homeowners conserve valuable space. You can store your things beneath them to make your space feel just a little bit bigger.
Photo From: MyKarmaStream
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Declutter, Declutter, Declutter
Decluttering a backyard can be an overwhelming task and it’s tough to know where to begin. Here are a few things you can take care of immediately to free up space in your backyard again:
- Store larger items under a porch or deck
- Throw out broken or long-unused yard tools
- Clean up organic waste and trim the lawn
- Replant or get rid of unused pots and containers
Invest in Premium Materials
We’re not saying you need to break the bank to get decent furniture for your outdoor space. What you do need to do is invest in materials that are good enough to prevent you from replacing your outdoor furniture every season or two.
Protective covers or covering furniture during the winter, if you live in a hotter climate, or if your furniture isn’t in use, is another great way of increasing the longevity of your furniture.
Ultimately, spending a little bit extra can mean avoiding that unexpected trip to the hardware store.
Secure Some Storage
This may be the most important part of optimizing your outdoor space. Our backyards are full of tools, toys and everything in between. Placing these items in proper storage can help streamline and cleanup the look of your outdoor space instantly. If you’re tired of always having them strewn across the lawn or half-hazardly placed behind some furniture, here are a few different storage options you can consider:
- Shed
- Sheds are the holy grail of outdoor storage options. They’re perfect for storing shovels, garden supplies and all of your larger tools
- Storage bench
- Use storage benches for stowing items like gardening gloves, small pool toys and more. With a storage bench, you can neatly and tidily organize it all.
- Shelves
- Shelves are another great storage spot for smaller backyard items. Use them to store the items you need on a day-to-day basis or for placing small plants
- Baskets
- Baskets are perfect for an assortment of smaller backyard items similar to a storage bench
- Hanging hooks
- Hanging hooks are perfect for saving valuable ground real estate.
